Dartmoor Winter Traverse
Meldon, United Kingdom • 21 Feb 2026
Event Overview
The Dartmoor Winter Traverse is a winter challenge event on Dartmoor. It offers two distances: a 50 km journey from south to north across remote parts of the moors, and a 30 km option from Princetown to Meldon. Both distances are open to runners and walkers.
Route Details
The route is approximately 50 km and almost entirely off-road. It passes through locations such as Red Lake, the sources of the rivers Erme and Plym, and after Princetown, continues to Roos Tor, Tavy Cleave, and Chat Tor. From there, it follows the Rattlebrook dismantled railway to the finish in Meldon. The 30 km option shares the same line from Princetown to Meldon. The route is unmarked and crosses wild, open moorland.
Support and Logistics
The event is fully supported by a team of qualified Mountain Leaders and experienced guides. They provide navigation assistance and first aid cover. Participants must carry mandatory kit as specified in the participant handbook. Maps such as OL 28 Dartmoor or BMC Dartmoor are recommended, with a GPX file available for GPS use. Coach transport is offered from the finish to the start before the event.
Preparation
For the 50 km distance, preparation such as having run a marathon or trail runs over 20 miles is recommended. The event is described as a challenge rather than a race, with generous cut-off times. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.