Hiking Dartmoor's Highest Peaks ,A Journey Through Muddy Trails and Stunning Vistas. 13th December 2025

I began the hike at 09:30, taking a wet and occasionally muddy trail down to the bridge that would lead me across the river and up the steep, rocky slope to Black Tor, which stands at 488 metres

Following a short rest, it was time to ascend again to the "roof of Devon & Cornwall," the highest tor on Dartmoor, High Willhays, which stands at 621 meters. In the brisk wind, it was the perfect moment to enjoy some hot soup while taking in the breathtaking landscape stretching out ahead.

The subsequent rocky outcrop was Yes Tor, just slightly lower at 618 metres. From the trig point at the summit, there was another opportunity to enjoy the stunning vistas and scenery before descending a rocky, muddy path and making the steady ascent to West Mills Tor at 541 metres.

With Meldon Resevoir nestled amongst the hills in the distance it was time to make my way over boggy ground and marshy terrain to the path that would eventually circumnavigate the resevoir,leading onto the path back to Prewley Moor and the car.

After 4.5 hours and just under 10 miles i had completed the hike.

Dartmoor had received more than 500mm of rain over the past six weeks, making the terrain extremely wet, sometimes boggy and muddy.

The winter sun and mild breeze created an ideal day for this hike. Back at the car at 2pm.!