Way of the Dead (a Dartmoor Traverse East to West)

Way of the Dead - 50k Dartmoor traverse from east to west

The Way of the Dead is a 50 kilometre east to west traverse of Dartmoor organised by Wild Running. Entrants may run solo or in pairs. The course uses live GPS tracking and includes up to three checkpoints that double as feed stations; bags can be transported to the finish and there is an additional bag drop to the final feed station at Merrivale.

The route starts at the car park at Trenchford Reservoir and passes Kelly Farm, wooded paths, the B382, Lustleigh church, the Cleave, Manaton, Bowerman’s Nose and Hayne Down. It continues via Kitty Jay’s Grave and Hameldown Ridge, Grimspound, Sousson’s Wood, the west of Bellever plantation to Postbridge and Powdermills at the halfway point. The second half climbs Longaford Tor and Lydford Tor, passes Stephen’s Grave and follows bridlepaths into Peter Tavy. CP3 is at Peter Tavy Village Hall. The final section follows country roads into Tavistock with the finish at Tavistock Golf Club on the edge of Tavistock.

Total ascent is 1327 metres. The second half of the course requires navigational experience; race GPX files will be provided and organisers will monitor progress. There is a 10 hour cut off. Prizes are awarded in the pairs category for the first three finishing teams; pairs must register a team name.

Included: GPS trackers supplied by Geotracks, marshals, professional first aid, insurance, parking, bespoke finisher medals, category prizes, bag drop for the 50k and up to three feed stations.

Suggested kit includes a map or GPS device, water resistant top and bottoms, at least 250 ml water, collapsible cup, cash, snacks, suitable off road shoes, mobile phone, base layer, hat or buff and gloves. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.