So we had decided on a visit to the north moor and a quieter corner of a much visited area. Sandwiched between the Okehampton Camp/Yes Tor area and the Belstone Tor ridge the East Okement River winds its way down from Okement Hill between these two areas of higher ground. As it nears Winter Tor the valley deepens and the river cascades a little more over the rocks. It then passes through woodland, with East Bowden Wood and Halstock Wood around the river banks, before it leaves the moor passing under the A30 and Fatherford Viaduct. This walk would cover both sides of the river, picking up hills/tors (5) and Dartmoor 365 squares (4) along the way, with less people than can be found on the Belstone ridge or around Rowtor/Yes Tor areas. That said there are a few spots that are pretty popular, especially around Nine Maidens and Cullever Steps but the walk through the woods and up to Cleave Tor was nice and quiet. The walk starts from a small car park near to the Okehampton Camp, heading immediately over East Hill, past the trig point, surrounded by dozens of Shetland ponies. The Lower Halstock Farm is a breeding centre for these gorgeous little animals. Next we reached Ashbury Tor, which sits on the edge of the woodland, with the odd outcrop poking through the ground and more exposed rocks below in the trees. We then dropped through the woods to Fatherford Viaduct and the A30 above us, turning here to follow the river upstream to Chapel Ford. Chapel Ford is a lovely spot on a warm summers day, but today we pressed on and climbed gently to Cleave Tor for some lunch. The sun briefly made an appearance as we ate our sandwiches and enjoyed the view to Scarey Tor along the East Okement valley. Next we started out in the direction of Scarey Tor, with a diversion to Nine Maidens on the way. We checked the time and decided an ascent of Winter Tor was possible before we crossed Cullever Steps. All that was left was to pass Halstock Farms and across the side of East Hill and back to the car. Another lovely part of the moor which showcases an alternative side from the normal yellowy grass and granite.

Start – East Hill parking

Route – Fitz’s Well and Cross – East Hill – Ashbury Tor – Fatherford Viaduct – Chapel Ford – Cleave Tor – Watchet Hill Cottage – Nine Maidens – Scarey Tor – Winter Tor – Cullever Steps – Higher Halstock – Lower Halstock – East Hill

Distance – 7.5 miles  Start time – 11.50am  Time taken – 4hrs 15mins  Highest Point – Winter Tor 421 metres

Weather – Cloudy all the way, tiny bit of sun for the lunch stop