Dartmoor Expedition 2009

SWTARS Dartmoor Expedition 2009

Sunday 21^st June

TWO OPTIONS –something for everyone

1. for the FIT and FAST– 12 MILES OVER THE MOOR

or

2. GENTLE – maximum 4 miles, with bird-spotting opportunities

The parties will rendez-vous by the Dart to complete the walk together

1. Across the Roof of the World to the valley of the Amazon [hard work]

                           Led by John Strickland

from Exeter St Davids to Okehampton by train [09.10], walk across the moor to Postbridge and return to Exeter by bus [16.20].  Rover ticket, bought on train, £6 adults, £4 children, £16 family (up to 3 children). The ticket covers the bus back to Exeter. Free rattletrap parking north of station [10 mins walk]

The expedition is about 12 miles, starting by following a decent path alongside a stream up through woodland and onto the moor. The route then goes over the very top of Dartmoor giving some fantastic views towards the sea.

We will navigate a peat pass, descend past a large standing stone to the Amazon and the memorial to a World War 1 spy. Then a possible sighting of a “Timothy” as we pass a bamboo copse!

Vital statistics      Distance 12 miles

                                       Ascent approximately 1700 feet [600m]

                                       Terrain – tracks and paths, with some rough stuff

No refreshments en route except what you carry - 1 litre of water at least, 2 litres if a hot day, plus plenty of rations.

Walking boots, warm layers, hat, gloves, waterproof coat and trousers and sun hat all essential.

Walk ends at Postbridge in time to catch the bus back to Exeter at 16.20

We shall meet up with the rest of the expedition at or near the ‘Beehive Hut’ and finish the walk together.

2. The Gentler Option - Postbridge to the Beehive Hut – Half day

                 Led by Annabelle Strickland & John Hunwicks

By Rattletrap to Postbridge. Meet at Clappersgate Bridge at 12.30. Postbridge has 2 pubs. The expedition will be flexible, depending on the party and the conditions, but should include a walk on a gentle path northwards in the valley of the Amazon, known locally as the river Dart. Bring your picnic. There will be bird-watching opportunities [binoculars helpful]. The walk will be no further than 4 miles, including the return after the rendez-vous with the other party.

Lastly, please feel free to bring family and friends, as ever “The Moor the Merrier”.   Members of other regions will also be welcome.  There’s no need to book, but if you hope to join us, or have any questions, please email swtars@hotmail.co.uk , so we have some idea of numbers.