Pew Tor, Heckwood Tor and Feather Tor from Pork Hill Car Park

Starting your hike from Pork Hill Car Park, located near Devon, England, this 5 km (approximately 3.1 miles) loop trail offers a moderate challenge with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). The car park is easily accessible by car, and for those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is Tavistock, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the trailhead.

Initial Ascent to Pew Tor From the car park, head north towards Pew Tor. The initial ascent is gentle, with the terrain consisting of grassy paths interspersed with rocky outcrops. Pew Tor, standing at approximately 320 meters (1,050 feet) above sea level, offers panoramic views of the surrounding moorland and distant tors. Keep an eye out for Dartmoor ponies grazing in this area, a common sight that adds to the charm of the landscape.

Navigating to Heckwood Tor After taking in the views from Pew Tor, continue eastward towards Heckwood Tor. This section of the trail is relatively flat, making for a pleasant walk through open moorland. The path here can be less defined, so using a navigation tool like HiiKER is recommended to stay on track. Heckwood Tor is slightly less elevated but offers a quieter spot to enjoy the natural beauty of Dartmoor.

Historical Significance As you make your way to Heckwood Tor, you'll be walking through an area rich in history. Dartmoor is known for its Bronze Age settlements and ancient stone circles. While the trail itself doesn't pass directly by these historical sites, the landscape is dotted with remnants of ancient civilizations, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your hike.

Descent to Feather Tor From Heckwood Tor, head southwest towards Feather Tor. The descent is gradual, with the path becoming more defined as you approach Feather Tor. This section of the trail offers a mix of grassy paths and rocky terrain. Feather Tor, though smaller in stature, provides a unique vantage point to observe the rolling hills and valleys of Dartmoor.

Return to Pork Hill Car Park The final leg of the hike takes you back to Pork Hill Car Park. This section is relatively easy, with a gentle downhill slope. The path is well-trodden and easy to follow, making for a relaxing end to your hike. Along the way, you'll pass through areas of heather and gorse, which bloom vibrantly in late summer, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, be on the lookout for a variety of wildlife. In addition to Dartmoor ponies, you may spot birds of prey such as buzzards and kestrels. The moorland is also home to a variety of plant species, including heather, gorse, and wildflowers, which attract numerous insects and butterflies.

Getting There For those driving, Pork Hill Car Park is well-signposted and has ample parking space. If you're using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is Tavistock. From Tavistock, local buses or taxis can take you to the car park. Always check the latest bus schedules and availability before planning your trip.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it an ideal choice for hikers looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Dartmoor.