How to Stay Safe While Taking Walks in Dartmoor

Hiking is a wonderful way to spend time in nature while also getting the exercise you need. You can reset your mind by getting your heart rate up. Get in touch with the ground, and traverse your way up to a higher altitude. Hiking Dartmoor National Park is especially great because you can enjoy its beautiful scenic views, rivers and crisp mountain air. Of course, safety is the key whenever you are out in nature. Below are some suggestions to keep you safe while hiking and taking walks in Dartmoor.

Getting Around While Taking Walks in Dartmoor

A key part of staying safe while hiking is knowing your trail and staying on it. Getting around Dartmoor can be daunting unless you plan out your trip beforehand. Do a little research and get acquainted with what to expect on your hike through Dartmoor.

You can enjoy walks through Wistman’s Wood, Lyford Gorge and Hound Tor. The Venford Reservoir has nice calm waters and beautiful valleys to take in. If the weather is nice, enjoy your lunch outdoors. Wistman’s Wood is a low-intensity walkway with green trees covered with lichen and moss, bringing out a gorgeous emerald colour for your enjoyment. The Burrator Reservoir is a slightly more intense hike, but you’ll get to see some amazing vistas during this walk. The Great Staple Tor to White Tor walk has marvellous rocks and majestic scenery of stones and hills. This is another more challenging part of the Dartmoor hike, but it is worth it for those who wish to experience something more advanced. Be sure to practice safety by wearing hiking boots, sticking to the trail and remaining hydrated.

Climate Ready

Be prepared for all kinds of weather during your hike through Dartmoor. The weather in Devon can be fickle. You might have high precipitation and rainfall on some days, and other days might be very hot. Wear weather-proof hiking gear, waterproof hiking boots, a hat and gloves to protect yourself from the elements, especially if the weather is cold. It's advised that failure to cool down may result in heatstroke. Be sure to stay cool when the sun is out. Drink plenty of water, and rest in a shady area if you feel dizzy or tired from the sun.

Be Prepared

When you go out into the woods for an extended period of time, you should not only dress for the occasion but also walk out equipped to handle any situation. Injuries can happen to you or anyone in your group. Having a standard first aid kit is strongly recommended. In addition, you should carry a compass, a map, food and water. In terms of food, bring energy-efficient snacks such as protein bars or trail mix. Make sure you don’t carry food that spoils easily or is cumbersome and messy.

Hiking is fun and a wonderful way to experience nature, but nature can also be scary if we don’t prepare ourselves for it. Be sure to follow the safety procedures outlined above: Know how to get around, be climate-ready and carry a safety kit. You’ll be able to enjoy your hike safely and soundly as long as you stay on your trail and get prepared in advance.

If you are in need of accommodations whilst travelling, be sure to check out our available lodgings for your destination!