Dartmoor National Park is home to some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in England — and High Willhaysstands as its highest point at 621 metres (2,039 ft).
This circular route takes in:
- High Willhays (highest peak)
- Black Tor
- Optional detour to Yes Tor
It’s one of the best hikes in northern Dartmoor if you want big views without overly technical terrain.
Route Overview
- From campsite (Sourton Down): ~10.5 miles / 17 km
- From Meldon Reservoir: ~7 miles / 11 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Moorland paths, rocky sections, some steep climbs
If you’re staying in a campervan, Sourton Down Caravan & Camping Park is a great base and open year-round.
Before You Go
- Check military training schedules (live firing can occur nearby)
- Weather can change fast on Dartmoor — pack layers
- Download your route / GPX (signal can be patchy)
Location
High Willhays sits in north Dartmoor, near Okehampton, just off the Granite Way.
Parking
- Meldon Reservoir Car Park (EX20 4LU)
- Large car park with toilets
- Small parking fee applies
The Route
Follow your map as you walk and you shouldn’t get lost. Make sure your location is turned on so you can see exactly where you are. Alternatively, download the GPX file and use it with your preferred route tracking app.
Follow the loop section anti-clockwise.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Start at Sourton Down (optional)
Leave via the small gate and head west toward the Granite Way. Turn left and follow it for about a mile.
2. Down to the Road
Take the path on your right down to the road and follow it to Meldon Reservoir Car Park.
3. Cross Meldon Dam
Walk across the dam, go through the gate, then take the path on your right. Shortly after, take the uphill path on your left.
4. Climb with Reservoir Views
Follow the steady climb with great views over the reservoir until you reach a fork.
5. Head to Black Tor
Take the right fork, passing over Longstone Hill, and continue to Black Tor.
6. Summit Push: High Willhays
From Black Tor, take the path on your left and climb to the summit of High Willhays.
7. Optional: Yes Tor
You can continue to Yes Tor (+1 mile / 1.6 km) or skip it.
Either way, return back to Black Tor.
8. Descend to the Valley
From Black Tor, take the path left and descend steeply toward the river.
9. Follow the River
Keep the river on your left and follow the valley path back toward the reservoir.
10. Around Meldon Reservoir
Follow the shoreline path until you reach the dam again.
11. Return to Campsite (if applicable)
Head back up the road, cross over, and rejoin the Granite Way.
12. Final Stretch
Follow the Granite Way, then take the right-hand path back to the campsite.
Quick Tips
- Boots > trainers (it gets boggy)
- Wind can be brutal on the ridge
- The Yes Tor detour is worth it on a clear day
- Sunset here is unreal if you time it right
- Keep an eye out for Dartmoor ponies (but don’t approach or feed them)
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Planning more walks in Devon?
Check out some of my other hiking guides across the county: Devon
