This route takes you to the highest summits in Dartmoor. But be aware that Dartmoor is used for military training including the firing of live ammunition, so closures are often in place. Before travelling you are advised to contact any of the local Tourist Information Offices. Make sure you check whether the area being visited is not subject to closure.
Meldon Reservoir
Start at the car park and toilets located at the northern end of Meldon reservoir. Leave the car park and cross the lane to a signed bridleway heading southwest. cross the dam and take the first path on the right. This leads you along the southern shore of the reservoir where you will reach the southern side of the footbridge. This alternative route is through open access land.
West Okement River
Continue along the eastern side of West Okement river for about one kilometre. As you go up the slope to your left you will see the rocks of Black Tor, which is where you are heading for. From here you will see the summit of High Willhays, lying just over a kilometre or so to the east. There are a couple of different intermittent paths but it is probably better to work your own way through the rocks.
Reaching the summit of High Willhays
This is the highest point on the southernmost rocks, and incidentally the highest point in south of the Peak District. Yes Tor is roughly a kilometre north, and has a much better view. This is easily reached along a clear path.
As you leave Yes Tor, you will find that the descent is fairly straightforward with a clear path leading you down to the track towards Longstone Hill. This in turn leads you quickly back to the car park.
We hope you enjoy this beautiful walk. Read more of our Wednesday Walks HERE. And see Devon Dog’s Calendar of Events HERE.
Come and stay with us in our cottage style apartments, right in the heart of Dartmoor, and try out our amazing Wednesday Walks for yourself.
Photo by Rude Health | CC BY-SA 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons