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Team walking during the event

Ten Tors is an annual weekend hike in early May, on Dartmoor, southwest England. Organized by the British Army, starting in 1960, it brings together teams of six young people, with the 2,400 young participants hiking to checkpoints on ten specified tors. The majority of entrants are schools, colleges, Scout groups and Cadet squadrons from South West England, though groups from across the UK have regularly taken part, as have teams from Australia and New Zealand. However, from 2012, only teams from the South West of England are eligible to take part,[1] due to the large numbers of entrants.

Event format

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Teams of six are required to visit ten specified tors and 5 to 10 via tors, these are required although not counted towards the 8 tor limit on the first day or your ten tors.; on the top of each tor is a checkpoint. Each team is required to visit all of the specified checkpoints in the correct order. Any member can choose to withdraw at a safety control, as long as there are 4 remaining participants; teams falling below this number could merge in earlier years, while later rules required a badly reduced team to forfeit.

There are 26 different routes over three different distances, lettered from A to Z, using a total of 19 different manned tors: 12 Bronze (Junior) routes of 35 miles (56 km) for those aged 14 to 15 years; 10 Silver (Intermediate) routes of 45 miles (72 km) for those aged 16 to 17 years; and 4 Gold (Senior or Arduous) routes of 55 miles (89 km) for those aged 18 to 19 years, or 17-year-olds who completed a Silver or Bronze route previously.

The organisers stress that the event is not a race – although teams often compete to see who can finish first – but a test of endurance, navigation and survival skills, because of not just the distances and the challenging terrain, but potentially also the weather; conditions on Dartmoor can vary considerably and change suddenly. In 1996, for example, the event was struck by a heavy snow storm, leading to some teams still being out on the moor a day after the event was due to have finished; while in 1998 temperatures reached 26 °C (79 °F).

Participants arrive at Okehampton Camp on the Thursday or Friday before the hike, watch a safety briefing video and have their equipment checked, a thorough process known as scrutineering. Teams must carry all their food, clothing, tents, stoves, fuel, navigation equipment, maps, emergency rations and a first aid kit; they also collect drinking water from the moor and use water purification tablets. Each team has a nominated team leader, who is responsible for ensuring that the team's route card is stamped at each of the ten tors.

All the teams start at 0700 on the Saturday from an area of flat land next to Anthony Stile, close to Okehampton Camp on the northern edge of Dartmoor. They stand in a semicircle and set off when a cannon fires. They have 34 hours to visit each of the ten tors on their route in the correct order. Teams must not pass through a checkpoint between 2200 on Saturday and 0600 on Sunday morning; nor may they pass the eighth tor until the Sunday. Those on 35 mile routes must camp at one of the manned tors on their route, while 45 and 55 mile teams may camp anywhere on the moor (minimum of 1km away from any checkpoints). Teams must arrive back at Anthony Stile by 1700 on the Sunday, having visited all ten tors on their route in order, to qualify for a medal and complimentary pasty. Teams that finish the challenge as a complete six also receive a certificate.

History of the event

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The first Ten Tors Expedition took place in September 1960, with around 200 young people taking part.[2] By 1980, the numbers had grown to more than 2,600. To protect the environment, the numbers are now limited to 2,400 individuals: 400 teams of four to six teenagers. The Army uses the event as a large scale logistics training exercise.

Until 1967, the event was organised by the Junior Leaders Regiment, Royal Corps of Signals. This responsibility passed to Headquarters South West District, and in 1986 to 43 (Wessex) Brigade, the regional Headquarters of the Territorial Army in the South West.

Since 1977, an additional event, The Jubilee Challenge, has been held for young people with physical or learning disabilities. This involves a selection of four routes of between 7.5 to 15 miles (12.1 to 24.1 km), both on road and cross-country.

Many military units and civilian groups provide support for this event and the Jubilee Challenge, including the Royal Wessex Yeomanry, Exeter UOTC, 243 Field Hospital RAMC, 6th Battalion The Rifles, two Sea King HC4 helicopters from 848 Naval Air Squadron, 39 (Skinners) Signal Regiment, two Gazelle helicopters from 7 Regiment Army Air Corps (Volunteers), Bristol UOTC, and the Dartmoor Rescue Group.

1981

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The first ever Junior Army Team from Junior Leaders Regiment Royal Armoured Corps JLR RAC finished the Gold Course with 24 minutes to spare, despite several of the six-strong team having severe foot injuries. They were cheered home by an honour guard of Royal Marines and Paratroopers who walked with the boys over the last mile.

1993

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Tavistock Times reports "Hurricane Force" winds during the event.

1996

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A cold northerly wind on the Saturday of the 1996 event turned to rain and snow overnight. This continued through Sunday, accompanied by fog and driving wind. Requests from Tor party commanders, two of whom had their tents destroyed, added to pressure to abandon the event, and there was a mass evacuation of the moor on the Sunday afternoon, the first time the event had been terminated early. Fifty-one teams completed their routes, but no record remains of their success. Ten Tors, A History

2001

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Ten Tors was cancelled in 2001 due to the foot and mouth epidemic, but went ahead the next year.

2003

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(69% finished Complete, + 21% with fall-outs)

For the second year in succession the Plymouth DofE Award 45 team[clarification needed] took the honour of leading the teams over the finish line, at 08:49 (Ten Tors Teams, 2003), improving on their time of 09:23 in 2002 (Ten Tors Teams, 2002)

2004

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(75% finished Complete, + 17% with fall-outs)

In 2004, the Ten Tors record for earliest complete team home was broken by R1809, Dartmoor Plodders, with a time of 08:19.[3] This stood until 2009.

2005

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(52% finished Complete, + 29% with fall-outs)

In 2005, one of the original teams from the 1960 Ten Tors took part in the event, which was held on 14–15 May in particularly adverse weather conditions: constant rain on the Saturday, combined with a bitter wind, leading to an unusually high number of retirements.

2006

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(76% finished Complete, + 17% with fall-outs)

In 2006, the event was held over the weekend of 13–14 May, with high temperatures on the Sunday resulting in several cases of dehydration.

2007

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On Sunday 4 March 2007, Charlotte Shaw was swept away by the rain-swollen Walla Brook near Watern Tor, while training for the event. The rest of her group raised the alarm using a mobile phone, but despite her being evacuated by a Royal Navy helicopter within 20 minutes, she died later that night in Derriford Hospital, Plymouth.[4] In December 2009 an inquest into the death was halted for the case to be considered for criminal charges.[5] Several other groups were also evacuated by helicopter after weather conditions on Dartmoor deteriorated.

The event itself was abandoned at 21:30 on Saturday 12 May 2007, halfway through, due to severe weather conditions; the decision was influenced by the high drop-out rate of 15% on Saturday. Participants spent the night camped at a manned Tor, before being escorted off the moor by the military the following day.[6]

2008

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(61% finished Complete, + 25% with fall-outs)

From 2008, the event was much changed, with different routes and use[clarification needed] of the moor to help bird conservation in the nesting season. Steeperton Tor and Hare Tor were dropped from the Tor list, and the pass from Dinger to Kitty Tor known as "Death Valley" was zoned off limits. Each team was permitted only four training walks on the north moor. A review of these changes is scheduled for 2011. The 2008 event was a total contrast to the previous years, with temperatures in the low 20s Celsius, and participants dropping out because of dehydration rather than hypothermia.

2009

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(80% finished Complete, + 13% with fall-outs)

In 2009, the Ten Tors' record for the earliest complete team home since the rule change was broken with a time of 08:17 by 20th Torbay Explorer Scouts.[7] For the first time, an all-girls team from Torquay Grammar School for Girls also broke the record for successfully completing the 35-, 45- and 55-mile events consecutively and with the same team members (Tamsin Owen, Joyce Nie, Francesca Hill, Amelia Skerritt, Rebecca Stanley, and Hannah Short).[8] There were fewer dropouts than in other years in almost perfect weather conditions.

2010

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(79% finished Complete, + 14% with fall-outs)

2010 saw the 50th anniversary of the Ten Tors event. To mark the occasion the Duke of Edinburgh visited the event on Sunday morning to speak to finishers and present some with the commemorative 50 years medals. It also marked the first year that teams carried a GPS tracker which enabled the organisers and team managers to track the participants' progress directly. The first finishers were 20th Torbay Explorer Scouts (Joshua Owen, Matthew Ryder, Luke Hayward, Jacob Shah, Paul Moroz, and William Fordyce) and King Edward's School Bath (Robert Wilcox, James Plumstead, Benjamin Smith, Edmond Venables (son of Stephen Venables), Jonathan Tracy, and Mark Humphreys) who walked over the line together at 7:37 to break the record for earliest finishers by 40 minutes, and also finishing four and a half hours ahead of any other team on their route. This also meant the scout group had crossed the line first for three consecutive years. Notable other finishers were the 'Denbury Boys' who, made up of men who completed the first ever Ten Tors, successfully completed the 35 mile event.

2011

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(81% finished Complete, + 14% with fall-outs)

The 2011, Challenge started under a clear blue sky, but cloud obscured the tops of *West Mill and *High Willhays even then. Cloud and a fresh breeze built up through the day, but by 17:50, a blue sky was breaking through. Sunday was very similar with the first finishers (M1306 - Downend Scouts, at 08:35 Route M listing, 2011) walking in under a blue sky, but again the cloud gathered through the day. Notes from the Event.

The largely overcast and cool weekend was almost perfect walking weather - of the 390 teams which started 374 (95%) walked over the finish line, and of those finishing teams 316 (81%) walked in with all six team members. Over the last fifteen years of the event, this is the highest percentage of both Finishing and Complete teams. Sixteen teams either retired (just 7, less than 2%) or were 'crashed out', but even here the statistics are impressive – in the previous 15 years teams are noted as stopping at their second Tor onwards. In 2011, the first teams to stop reached their fifth Tor before doing so.

It was also the 60th anniversary of Dartmoor as a National Park so everyone received a participant certificate.

2012

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(75% finished Complete, + 17% with fall-outs)

The first team to reach the finish line was the Torquay Boys' Grammar School 45-mile team, who reached camp at 8:56 am.

They were soon followed by both Torbay Explorer Scouts and Queen Elizabeth's Hospital School 45-mile team, who performed an excellent display of sportsmanship by finishing the last kilometre of the course side by side, despite a failure in the alarm of the QEH team, delaying the team by a full hour.

The first 35-mile team to cross the finish was Churcher's College, Hampshire, getting back to cap with a record breaking time of 09:21 on the Sunday morning. This was also the first all-boy team to cross the finish, and second overall.

The first all-girl team to reach the finish line, The Maynard 35-mile team, got back to camp at 10:20, setting a new time record for the school. The Maynard 45-mile team also completed the challenge in a respectable time, finishing at 13:59.

The 2012 event was notable for the selfless efforts of one team, X2414 Kingsbridge Community College (55), who were on schedule to complete their route shortly after 16:00 when they diverted to answer the distress whistles of another team which had two of its members trapped chest deep in Raybarrow Pool.[9] After calling in the Dartmoor Rescue Group and helping the other team, X2414 walked in at 17:19, almost twenty minutes after the close of the event - this would normally debar a team from receiving their awards. The Director Ten Tors, Brigadier Piers Hankinson, met the team at the finish and presented Kingsbridge with their gold medals.

The event weather, following days of heavy rain, was cloudless, sunny, and warm with 100% visibility. Notes from the Event, 2012

2013

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(23% of participants did not finish)

The 2013 event went down in Ten Tors history as one of the most miserable. Organisers said that if the weather had come a day earlier then the event would have been cancelled. Swollen rivers from rain over the previous weeks meant that river crossings were hazardous; teams were offered advice on the best places to cross by Dartmoor Mountain Rescue. Some young people stayed at river crossings for a number of hours, selflessly helping others to cross whilst putting their own chances of finishing on hold.

Especially on Saturday, navigation became extremely difficult as fog and mist reduced visibility to as low as 10 metres: a few less experienced 35 mile teams did not even make their first tor. The weather lifted overnight and gave teams a break from the rain, but this brought near-freezing temperatures across the whole moor. Throughout Sunday the weather worsened again.

Queen Elizabeth's Hospital School 45 mile team S1915 were the first team to make it across the finish line on the Sunday morning at 9:20.

Teams often choose odd dress code for crossing the finishing line. School uniform, kilts, miniskirts and Chinese dragons have all featured in the past. However, this year, the Launceston College 45 mile team decided to cross the line in brightly coloured morphsuits. Whilst the rain was beginning to lash down and the traditional Dartmoor high winds persisted, the team sacrificed their finishing time (12:15) to show the spirit and good humour that makes Ten Tors.

The finishing gate was left open for an extra 45 minutes. By 11:00 on Sunday morning, over 300 people had dropped out, and by the end of the day the number of people who would not complete had increased to over 500.

2014

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(81% finished complete) The first team to finish was the 35 mile CCF team from Churcher's College, Petersfield, Hants. They came over the line at 8:24 am and was a mixed team: Olivia Hart, Francesca Hussell, Jerome Greig, Ben Kelson, Edward Rodge, and Owen Tutt, around 45 minutes ahead of all other teams. In the 55 mile event, Queen Elizabeth's Hospital School were the first to finish.

2015

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(73.7% complete 18.9% with fall-outs)[10]

This was the 55th anniversary of Ten Tors, and to celebrate this, two teams of veterans were given special permission to take part. They did one of the 55 mile routes on the 55th anniversary, all aged over 55 (some considerably so). Most of them had completed Ten Tors as teenagers in the 1970s whilst at Exeter School, but none had had the opportunity to do the 55 mile route. Apart from being too old, they followed all the rules, carrying all the same equipment as the young people. Both teams completed the challenge complete; fourteen veterans in all, albeit fairly late in the day on the Sunday.[11]

2016

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(73% complete 21 with fall-outs)[12]

2016 saw warmer weather, getting up to 20 °C across the moor. The first team to cross the finish line was Torbay Scouts who took part in the 35-mile (56 km) route at 8:51. The first 55-mile team to cross the finish line was Colyton Grammar School. They crossed the finish line at 10:52, team consisting of: Matt Domhof, Frank Hartley, Charlie King, Zoe Kuyken, Ellie Marok, and Jonny Surtees (C).

The event also generated a light-hearted news story when the downdraught from a low-flying Royal Navy Merlin Mk3 helicopter blew away a row of portable toilets. They were not occupied at the time and there were no injuries.[13]

Adults were awarded for long service to Ten Tors with 1 40+ Platinum award, 1 30+ Diamond award and 5 20+ gold awards, including Jack Barker, from the Erme and Yealm Hillwalking Club/Ivybridge Community College receiving the Platinum and Diamond; plus Paul Johnson & Peter Challiss from Tavistock & District Youth Forum, receiving Gold for 20yrs service.

2017

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The event had the perfect weather conditions, with it not being too cold or too hot, leading to 84.9% of teams reaching the finish line complete.[14] First to finish were 20th Torbay Scouts, arriving back at the base camp at 08:19 Sunday, followed by Torquay Boys' Grammar School B at 08:37, who finished almost an hour before anyone else on their route after walking for 2.5 hours. The first 55-mile team was that of Torquay Boys' Grammar School A, consisting of Joe Kingdon, Tom Snow, Matt Birdsall, Adam White, Harry Fox and Tom Gregory. They finished at 9:54, beating the previously held record for Route X, introduced in 2014, by 1hr35mins.[15]

2020

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Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 was one of the only years in the event's history (previously foot and mouth epidemic) that the event was cancelled unrelated to weather conditions. All prospective participants were given certificates for their efforts in training for the event.

2023

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(91.2% of teams finished, 25.6% of teams finished with fall-outs, 8.8% of teams did not finish)

The 2023 Ten Tors event was a week earlier than usual, on the 28th-30th of April, due to the King's coronation.

Jonathan Van-Tam gave a speech before the event started.

2024

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Unusually high temperatures meant many participants crashed out due to heatstroke, with two 30-minute rest periods imposed during the event, one on each day. Ray Mears gave the commencement speech.

2025

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Saturday started with skydivers and a helicopter flyover. Weather conditions were perfect for walking and remained that way for the whole of Saturday.

On Sunday the weather was clouded over and a little on the cold side, with strong breezes. At around 11:30 it began to rain and continued for the majority of the day.

Manned tors

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The tors used as checkpoints on the Ten Tors challenge in 2013 were as follows, but this is being changed for the 2014 event, all changed for the 2020 event, and all changed for the 2024, with no checkpoints S of the Postbridge - Merrivale Rd.

Higher Tor for the 1st time in 2025

  • Peat Cot (removed for 2024)
  • Puper's Hill, 3 km W of Scorriton - not actually a Tor but used due to a lack of tors on the south eastern side of the moor

All the above tors are staffed by volunteers: ten are manned by personnel from the Royal Air Force and nine by Royal Navy colleagues.

The following tors are no longer used because of bird nesting:

All tors on the south moor have been removed after 2014, replaced by Peat Cot, south of Princetown, and new Safety Checkpoints were put in place to ensure the safety of participants, providing road access to the checkpoint for potential drop outs during the event.

New Checkpoints/Safety Checkpoints for the event from 2014 onwards are: Revised for the 2020 event, buy a Ten Tors 60 badge and 2020 diamond 60 flash (not from the Army) 2024 date year flashes were for sale as usual.

Buttern Hill called Buttern Tor in; Crow Tor IN out for 2024

  • Dinger Tor
  • Fernworthy
  • Great Kneeset
  • High Willhays
  • Holming Beam
  • Kes Tor
  • Little Mis Tor

Longaford Tor IN

  • Middle Staple Tor
  • Nodden Gate manned by a ex TT participant in 2024.
  • Okement Hill
  • Peat Cot
  • Postbridge
  • Prewley Moor
  • Standon Farm
  • Water Hill
  • White Barrow

Ten Tors Prayer

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Every year before the start of the event the following prayer is read.


O God, who has made the earth of great beauty
and instilled in man a spirit for adventure,
we thank you for the beauty of nature
for the courage and vigour of youth
for companionship
and for the opportunity to enjoy these gifts

Go, we pray, with all who are setting out
on this great venture
among the tors of a unique and ancient moorland.
Grant that, by meeting each challenge and difficulty
with honest endeavour and unselfish courage
they may find a spirit of determination and
true comradeship
that will benefit themselves and those about them
both now and in the future.

Amen

[16]

Jubilee Challenge

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The Jubilee Challenge is a one-day event for those with mental and/or physical disabilities.

See also

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  • Four Inns Walk – a 45-mile (72 km) competitive event in the Northern Peak District, often attempted by young adults, as well as other teams of fit, experienced walkers
  • Three Towers Hike – a hiking event with three hikes of varying lengths held in West Berkshire and Southern Oxfordshire.

Abbots Way Walk is 63ys old in 2025 on Sunday 5th Oct.

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Ten Tors Challenge is an annual team-based hiking event held on in , , where approximately 2,400 teenagers aged 14 to 19 from the South West of navigate rugged terrain over two days, completing self-supported routes of 35, 45, or 55 miles while visiting ten specified tors ( hilltops) as checkpoints. Organized by the British Army's Headquarters South West since its inception in 1960, the challenge emphasizes endurance, navigation, teamwork, and self-sufficiency, with participants carrying all necessary equipment including tents, food, and safety gear. The event originated in 1959 during an Army training exercise on , when Colonel Harry Gregory and Captain John Joyner conceived a challenging route to test young participants' resilience. The inaugural Ten Tors took place on 15–16 September 1960, featuring 21 patrols (mostly military) on a 55-mile course, marking the start of what has become one of the United Kingdom's largest youth outdoor challenges. Over the decades, it evolved significantly: routes were adjusted in 1961 to include shorter options for younger participants and girls (aged 14–20), with the event shifting to early May by 1962 and relocating its start and finish to Camp in 1968 and 1969, respectively. Key milestones include the introduction of compulsory kit lists in 1974, an entry cap of 2,400 in 1978, and full gender integration by 1988, allowing any composition; the 50th anniversary in 2010 was attended by HRH The . In its current format, the Ten Tors Challenge occurs over the weekend following the early May bank holiday, typically spanning Friday to Sunday, with teams setting off from Camp at 07:00 on Saturday and required to finish by 17:00 on Sunday. Routes must be followed in a prescribed order, visiting ten tors such as Yes Tor and , under strict rules prohibiting external assistance except at designated control points where teams can access water and medical support if needed. Teams are self-sufficient for navigation using maps and compasses—no GPS devices are allowed—and must bivouac overnight without fires, adhering to environmental protections on the . Supporting events include the Jubilee Challenge for those aged 14–21 with disabilities or varying abilities on shorter routes, and the Dartmoor Granite Challenge for young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), both held concurrently. Preparation is rigorous, often beginning months in advance under the supervision of or managers, with mandatory training weekends and qualification hikes to ensure fitness and skills. Supported by the Royal Navy, , emergency services, and volunteers, the event fosters personal development, with completers receiving certificates and the sense of achievement from conquering Dartmoor's challenging mires, rivers, and elevations up to 619 meters at . Despite occasional weather-related cancellations, such as in 2001 due to and 2007 due to adverse weather, Ten Tors remains a cornerstone of youth adventure training in the region, promoting values of perseverance and camaraderie.

Overview

Description

The Ten Tors Challenge is a two-day, self-navigated expedition held on in southwest , where teams of six young people aged 14 to 19 must cover distances of 35, 45, or 55 miles while visiting ten specified tors, which are prominent outcrops serving as checkpoints. The event requires participants to rely on map and compass navigation, overnight, and managing their own provisions without external assistance, fostering essential outdoor competencies in a rugged, open environment. Organized by the British Army's Headquarters South West since its inception, Ten Tors serves as a youth development initiative aimed at building resilience, skills, , , and self-reliance among participants, with a strong emphasis on personal achievement rather than competition. The non-competitive format encourages teams to complete their routes at their own pace, promoting problem-solving and appreciation for Dartmoor's natural and through structured training and the expedition itself. Annually attracting approximately 2,400 teenagers from the South West of England in around 400 teams, the challenge takes place in early May, starting and finishing at Camp, and has been held in this format since 1960. Originating from military training exercises to extend outdoor adventures to civilian youth, it underscores personal growth over rivalry, with successful completion recognized through certificates rather than rankings.

Organization and Participation

The Ten Tors Challenge is organized by the British Army's Headquarters South West, with the event managed from Okehampton Camp on . It receives essential support from the Royal Navy, , civilian emergency services, and a large cadre of volunteers who assist in logistics, safety oversight, and checkpoint operations. Eligibility is open to youths aged 14 to 19 as of 31 of the event year from schools, youth groups, cadet units, and scout groups located in the South West region of , specifically the counties of , , , Dorset, , , and . Participants are grouped into age-based categories corresponding to the 35-mile (ages 14-15), 45-mile (ages 16-17), or 55-mile (ages 18-19) routes, with younger entrants eligible for longer distances only if they have prior completions. Each team comprises exactly six participants of any gender mix, who must demonstrate self-sufficiency through mandatory training, including four days and two nights on . Every team is overseen by an adult team manager, appointed by the establishment's head, who ensures compliance with safety and preparation standards and attends a mandatory briefing at Camp. Applications are submitted online via the official Ten Tors website's team manager dashboard, with authorization required from the establishment's head; the event caps participation at 400 teams due to oversubscription. Selection prioritizes factors such as establishment size, historical performance, and conduct, after which routes are allocated within the team's distance category. The challenge maintains a non-competitive , focusing on individual endurance and rather than , with no overall winners and completion certificates awarded to finishing teams. In , coinciding with the event's 50th anniversary, the Ten Tors Award was established to honor exceptional volunteer contributions to training and event support.

Event Format

Distances and Routes

The Ten Tors Challenge features three distance categories tailored to participants' ages: 35 miles for teams of 14- to 15-year-olds, 45 miles for 16- to 17-year-olds, and 55 miles for 18- to 19-year-olds. These routes are designed as continuous loops that begin and end at Camp on , requiring teams to navigate independently while visiting a prescribed sequence of ten tors over the weekend event. There are 32 unique routes in total, allocated across the categories to accommodate up to 400 teams, with each route specifying the order of staffed locations to visit and allowing minor variations of up to ±1 km in length. Navigation relies solely on traditional methods, with the mandatory use of maps (such as OS Explorer OL28) and compasses; electronic aids like GPS are prohibited to emphasize and skills. Teams receive route cards outlining the tors and key points, but must plot their own paths between them, often contending with Dartmoor's rugged , river crossings, and tors rising to elevations of around 600 meters, all under variable weather conditions that can include fog, rain, and high winds. An overnight camp is required after the first day's leg, with 35-mile teams bivouacking at designated staffed locations for safety, while 45- and 55-mile teams select their own sites within authorized areas on the moor. The current distances were established in 1969, when the longest routes were shortened from 60 miles to 55 miles and the middle category from 50 miles to 45 miles to reduce the physical demands of extensive high-moor traversal and enhance participant safety. Prior to these adjustments, routes had evolved from an initial 55-mile option in 1960, with incremental changes like the introduction of a 60-mile tier in 1962.

Rules and Equipment

The Ten Tors Challenge requires teams of six participants to complete designated routes by visiting all specified checkpoints in sequence without deviation, while adhering to a strict 36-hour time limit from the start on Saturday morning to the finish by 1700 hours on Sunday. Teams must remain together at all times, progressing as a unit and providing mutual support, with no external assistance permitted except within 500 meters of the start or finish areas. relies solely on provided maps and compasses, as the use of GPS devices, two-way radios, or any electronic navigation aids is prohibited to emphasize self-reliance and traditional orienteering skills. Failure to complete the route in order or within the time frame results in disqualification, with the event director holding final authority on all rulings. Mandatory equipment is governed by Annex B of the official rules, ensuring participants are equipped for self-sufficiency across the challenging . Each individual must carry a rucksack not exceeding 13.6 kilograms (30 pounds), including a waterproof liner or cover, along with personal items such as two base layers, one insulation layer, waterproof jacket and , gloves, , two pairs of thick , sturdy boots, a rated to -2°C comfort limit in a waterproof bag, a sleeping mat (for certain distances), and sufficient rations comprising at least four meals plus emergency high-energy food sealed for 48 hours of sustenance. Team-shared gear includes two waterproof maps, two compasses, a pack with essentials like treatment and bandages, a with ID panels, cooking , a restricted to emergencies and stored opaquely, and a rubbish bag for all waste. Pre-event kit inspections are conducted by team managers and organizers to verify compliance, with the authority to exclude unequipped participants based on weather forecasts or suitability. Prohibited attire includes , tracksuits, or damaged , prioritizing full coverage for . Conduct during the event underscores self-sufficiency and , with participants required to manage all needs independently, including handling any fall-outs by reporting them immediately at checkpoints without seeking outside help. The code mandates minimal environmental impact, prohibiting littering—all waste must be carried out—and requiring burial of at least 15 cm deep while avoiding sensitive areas like rare bird nesting zones from to July. No open fires are allowed; only stoves may be used, and any uncontrolled fires must be reported to services. Breaches of conduct, such as environmental or unsportsmanlike behavior, incur penalties up to disqualification and potential barring from future events, enforced by monitors from the and National Park Authority. Mobile phones are permitted solely for emergency use, with no communication for non-critical purposes, reinforcing the event's focus on unaided teamwork. Pets, last-minute team substitutions, and any form of external support, including advice from non-participants, are strictly forbidden to maintain fairness and isolation from aids.

Checkpoints and Manned Tors

The checkpoint system in the Ten Tors Challenge consists of two primary types: Safety Controls (SCs) and Basic Controls (BCs). Safety Controls are larger, strategically positioned sites near roads to facilitate rapid evacuation if needed, equipped with medical facilities for participant welfare. Basic Controls, in contrast, are lightly staffed points located on prominent features such as tors, beacons, or hills, designed to spread routes across and enhance navigational challenge. Teams on each of the 32 routes must visit 10 of these checkpoints in a prescribed order, drawn from a total of 27 staffed locations across the northern half of . These checkpoints, often referred to as manned tors when situated on hilltops, are staffed by the Moor Support Group (MSG), a team of volunteers from the , , and . The MSG personnel monitor team progress, conduct welfare checks, and provide essential support including water replenishment and basic medical aid, particularly at SCs. Upon arrival, teams present a control card for manual stamping to verify their visit, while satellite trackers—issued to all participants—are activated at each point to transmit location and timing data for real-time oversight by event coordinators. This dual tracking system ensures accountability and enables prompt intervention if teams deviate from routes or face difficulties. The selection of checkpoint locations prioritizes comprehensive coverage of Dartmoor's , balancing for support with the event's emphasis on and . Representative examples include Cosdon Hill at grid reference SX 6361 9151, a northern high point serving as a BC; Great Kneeset at SX 5890 8587, offering panoramic oversight; and Postbridge at SX 6460 7879, an SC near infrastructure for logistical ease. These sites, along with others like Dinger Tor (SX 5864 8809) and Sittaford Tor (SX 6335 8305), are chosen to intersect multiple routes strategically, preventing overlap while maintaining safety. Historically, the checkpoint system evolved to address growing participation; in , the inaugural event featured 10 optional checkpoints visitable in any order, but by 1965, with entries surpassing 2,000, the requirement to follow a fixed sequence was introduced to standardize routes and enhance safety monitoring. This formalization marked a pivotal shift toward the structured verification process still in use today.

Safety and Logistics

Safety Measures

The Ten Tors event employs comprehensive monitoring systems to ensure participant across Dartmoor's challenging terrain. Since 2014, all teams have been equipped with satellite trackers provided by the 39th Signal Regiment, enabling real-time location tracking and rapid response to emergencies. These trackers integrate with a that enhances oversight of compliance and welfare. Additionally, radio communications, also managed by the 39th Signal Regiment, facilitate coordination between safety control points, , and support units, allowing for immediate alerts on team progress or distress. Medical support is a cornerstone of the event's safety framework, with on-site medics stationed at the 27 manned safety control points, each equipped with medical facilities and vehicle access for rapid intervention. The North Search and Rescue Team (NDSART) and Search and Rescue Group provide ground-based assistance, while Helicopter Force has conducted casualty evacuations since 1988 using helicopters such as the for swift extractions. Weather monitoring is integral, with continuous assessments leading to potential route adjustments or event modifications to mitigate risks from adverse conditions like fog or high winds. Risk management protocols emphasize preparation and hazard mitigation, identifying and errors—exacerbated by Dartmoor's frequent poor visibility and —as the primary threats. Mandatory training for team managers, introduced in 1982 as an annual requirement, covers , procedures, and environmental to equip leaders for these challenges. Post-event debriefs analyze incidents and feedback to drive improvements, as seen after events in 1973 and 1981. Historical enhancements include the 1974 introduction of compulsory kit specifications, with pre- and mid-event checks to ensure adequate protection against the elements, and 1978 entry limits capping participation at 2,400 to manage and resource strain.

Timing and Locations

The Ten Tors Challenge is a two-day event held annually in early May, typically spanning a to weekend, with the core expedition occurring from 0700 on to 1700 on . Teams undertake a mass start from a designated assembly area, navigate independently across , and camp overnight at self-selected base camps near specified tors before resuming on . The event concludes with all teams required to finish by the 1700 deadline, after which the site is cleared to minimize environmental impact. The primary venue for the start and finish is Army Camp, located at grid reference SX 575 940 on the northern edge of . Specifically, teams assemble and depart from Anthony Stile adjacent to the camp, with routes extending across the central and southern sections of , encompassing rugged terrain including tors, moorland, and boggy areas. To facilitate access, temporary road closures are implemented on key routes leading to the camp, such as the A30 and local lanes, coordinated with local authorities to manage traffic flow during the event weekend. Logistical support at Okehampton Camp includes dedicated parking zones for spectators and team supporters, separate from participant assembly areas, to accommodate the influx of visitors without disrupting operations. Welfare facilities, including a Chaplaincy and Welfare Hub, provide essential services such as medical support and rest areas for teams and families upon arrival and completion. Following the finish, an awards ceremony is held on Sunday afternoon at the camp, recognizing successful teams with presentations of certificates and trophies. An Environmental Compliance Monitoring Team oversees the site and routes, enforcing "Green Card" rules to protect Dartmoor's boggy and sensitive ecosystems from erosion and litter. The current setup at Okehampton Camp was established following changes in the late 1960s; the start relocated there in 1968 due to the closure of the previous base at Denbury Camp, and the finish aligned to the same location in 1969 to streamline logistics and participant return.

History

Origins and Early Development

The Ten Tors Challenge originated in 1959 from discussions among British Army officers Lieutenant Colonel Lionel Gregory, Major Parker, and Captain John Joyner, who were stationed with the Junior Leaders Regiment, Royal Corps of Signals, at Denbury Camp in Devon. During an adventure training exercise on Dartmoor, the officers observed the enthusiasm of young trainees for the challenging terrain and conceived an expedition to foster navigation skills, endurance, and teamwork as a form of military youth development. The inaugural "Ten Tors Expedition" occurred on 15–16 September 1960, featuring 21 patrols: 20 military teams of 10 members each and one civilian patrol of three from Comprehensive School. Participants navigated a demanding route of just over 50 miles across 10 tors, starting at and ending at Denbury Camp, within a 36-hour window that prohibited movement between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. to emphasize and minimal equipment. Of the entrants, six full patrols and 41 individuals successfully completed the course, earning medals and certificates. By 1961, the event shifted to early May for more favorable weather and expanded to accommodate civilians more formally, introducing a 50-mile route for ages 16–18 and a new 36-mile option for younger groups (boys aged 14–16 and girls aged 14–20). This iteration saw 156 patrols begin the challenge, with 83 finishing, and patrol sizes standardized at six members; the finish moved to Hexworthy. Growth accelerated in subsequent years: a 60-mile route for 18–20-year-olds was added in 1962, and total participants surpassed 2,000 by 1965, prompting the introduction of mandatory checkpoint visits in sequence to guide navigation. Early editions faced significant hurdles from Dartmoor's unpredictable conditions, including dense mist in 1967 that complicated and heavy rain in later events that tested participants' resilience. Logistical adjustments followed, such as relocating the start to in 1968 for better access and shifting the finish there in 1969, while route lengths were refined (from 60 to 55 miles and 50 to 45 miles) to balance challenge with safety.

Key Milestones and Inclusivity

In the mid-1970s, Ten Tors began significant efforts to promote inclusivity, with the first all-girls team from the Cadets completing the 45-mile route in 1975. Two years later, in 1977, a girls' team became the first to successfully finish the 55-mile route, marking a in female participation. These achievements paved the way for broader access, as mixed teams of three males and three females were permitted starting in 1984, followed by allowance of any combination within teams by 1988. Parallel to gender inclusivity, the event expanded access for participants with disabilities in 1977 through the introduction of a special one-day event tailored to their needs, which was later renamed the Jubilee Challenge in 1996 to honor its growing role. This initiative reflected a commitment to making the challenge more accessible, evolving into further adaptations over time. In 2024, what was initially the Jubilee Challenge Plus, now known as the Granite Challenge, was launched specifically for young adults (aged 14-21) with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), offering an overnight option to extend participation beyond school-age groups. Key organizational milestones shaped the event's scale and structure. Following safety reviews, the maximum route distance was adjusted from 60 miles to 55 miles in 1969, establishing the current upper limit for the longest challenge. Participation growth led to an official cap of 2,400 entrants in 1978, a limit that has remained in place to manage logistics on . The event underwent a formal in 2009, changing from the "Ten Tors Expedition" to the "Ten Tors Challenge" to better reflect its enduring nature. The 50th anniversary in 2010 was highlighted by a visit from HRH The , who presented special awards to recognize long-term contributors. The 2025 edition marked the 63rd running of the challenge, underscoring its sustained popularity. Safety and technological advancements further defined post-1970s developments. Compulsory kit specifications were introduced in 1974 to standardize , with mandatory kit scrutineering and team briefings implemented in 1977 to ensure compliance. In 1982, a managers' training weekend was established, becoming mandatory the following year to equip adult supervisors with necessary skills. tracking devices were introduced around 2010, providing real-time location monitoring via GPS and enhancing response capabilities during the event.

Notable Incidents and Cancellations

The Ten Tors Challenge has experienced several notable cancellations and abandonments due to conditions, highlighting the inherent risks of navigating Dartmoor's unpredictable terrain. In 1996, the event was abandoned on Sunday afternoon amid a cold northerly wind that escalated into , , and blanket , leading to risks and a mass evacuation involving helicopters to over 2,000 participants. Similarly, in 2007, torrential caused rivers to swell dangerously, prompting organizers to halt the challenge on evening; all approximately 2,400 teenagers were safely evacuated the following day by military helicopters and ground teams, with medals awarded in recognition of their efforts. The event was fully cancelled due to the outbreak, marking an early preemptive cancellation unrelated to weather. The 2020 and 2021 events were fully cancelled due to the , marking the first preemptive cancellations unrelated to weather in the challenge's . Partial disruptions have also occurred in years with extreme conditions, often resulting in delays, evacuations, or heightened safety interventions without full abandonment. The 1981 challenge faced gales, torrential rain, hail, and thunderstorms, raising significant concerns following recent fatalities among other groups and necessitating enhanced monitoring. In 1973, dense and torrential rain complicated river crossings, contributing to a formal safety review that influenced subsequent protocols. challenges in have been recurrent, as seen in 1967 when dense mist and icy rain left over 100 participants stranded overnight, requiring extended recovery efforts into Monday. More recently, the 2013 event encountered heavy rain and swollen rivers, leading to teams becoming disoriented and at least one dramatic where participants pulled a from fast-flowing water; this prompted route modifications for 2014 to reduce river crossings and improve safety. Injuries, typically minor such as sprains or exhaustion, have led to evacuations in various years, including over 50 dropouts in 2014 due to such issues, though no major casualties have occurred during the main event itself. These incidents have driven key safety enhancements, including the introduction of compulsory kit specifications in 1974 and improved weather forecasting following the 1973 review. The 2007 abandonment accelerated the adoption of GPS trackers for better real-time monitoring, while the 2013 river dangers led to the first major route overhaul in 30 years, minimizing hazardous water features. A tragic related incident during 2007 —the drowning of 14-year-old Charlotte Shaw in a swollen stream—prompted a coroner's call for stricter assessments and guidelines, further reinforcing the event's emphasis on over alone. Despite these challenges, abandonments remain rare, with only about 5% of the 63 events since 1960 (as of 2025) affected by full or partial halts, and recent years like 2023–2025 seeing completions amid challenging but manageable weather, underscoring the robustness of evolved safety measures.

Traditions and Ceremonies

Ten Tors Prayer

The Ten Tors Prayer was first recited in during the second annual event at Denbury Camp in , , where the challenge originated. It was composed by early organizers of the event to invoke divine protection, guidance, and a sense of adventure and camaraderie for participants navigating the rugged terrain of . The full text of the prayer, which emphasizes themes of natural beauty, youthful vigor, endurance, and mutual support, reads as follows: O God, who has made the earth of great beauty and instilled in man a spirit for adventure, we thank you for the beauty of nature for the courage and vigour of youth for companionship and for the opportunity to enjoy these gifts. Go, we pray, with all who are setting out on this great venture among the tors of a unique and ancient . Grant that, by meeting each challenge and difficulty with honest endeavour and unselfish courage they may find a spirit of determination and true comradeship that will benefit themselves and those about them both now and in the future. Amen. Annually, the is delivered by immediately before the 0700 start of the challenge at Camp, serving as a symbolic invocation of safety and communal spirit for the thousands of young participants. For the 2025 event, it was led by the to the Armed Forces, highlighting its integration into the ceremony as a moment of reflection and unity. This tradition underscores the event's roots in the Christian heritage of its military founders, promoting values of perseverance and fellowship. Over the decades, the prayer has been adapted slightly on two occasions for clarity or phrasing, but its core wording and intent have remained consistent since its inception. The original version was rediscovered through historical research by Alan Stephens and reinstated for the event's 50th anniversary in , preserving its foundational role in the challenge's cultural legacy.

Starting and Finishing Ceremonies

The starting ceremony for the Ten Tors Challenge takes place at Okehampton Camp near Anthony Stile, where over 2,400 participants from 400 teams assemble en masse early on morning, joined by thousands of supporters, volunteers, and . The event begins promptly at 0700 hours with formal rituals, including a recitation of the , fostering a sense of unity and tradition among the assembled crowd. This is often highlighted by a spectacular parachute display from the British Army's Red Devils, who descend over the starting area, followed by an artillery gun salute signaling the official commencement as teams set off simultaneously on their routes. The ceremony is typically officiated by a high-ranking figure, such as the , emphasizing the event's military organization and the participants' discipline. At the conclusion of the challenge on , teams cross the finish line individually near Stile at Camp, with arrivals continuing from around 0900 hours until the course closes at 1700 hours. Completers are greeted by cheering crowds, including family members who gather to witness the moment and facilitate emotional reunions after the grueling two-day trek. photos are taken for participants, capturing their achievements, while an Engagement Village at the finish site provides areas for relaxation, welfare support, and displays such as a parachute exhibit. All teams that finish intact receive certificates recognizing their completion, alongside medal presentations tailored to the route distance: bronze for 35-mile teams, silver for 45-mile routes, and for 55-mile challengers. Since 2010, dedicated volunteers have been honored with the special Ten Tors Award, comprising framed , silver, and medals for long-term service. The overall atmosphere at the finish underscores collective accomplishment rather than competition, with military honors reinforcing the event's emphasis on resilience, , and personal growth.

Jubilee Challenge

The Jubilee Challenge is a one-day inclusive event held as part of the Ten Tors weekend, specifically designed for young people aged 14 to 21 with physical or mental disabilities or challenging conditions. It originated in 1977 as a special event to enable participation by disabled youth, initially launched during Queen Elizabeth II's year, and was formally renamed the Jubilee Challenge in 1996. The event features four route options of varying difficulty, with distances ranging from 7.8 miles for the most accessible path (suitable for or users) to 15 miles for the longest, all conducted on adapted terrain near Okehampton Camp to minimize extreme challenges. Participants, either in teams of 1 to 8 or as individuals, must navigate and visit 8 to 9 specified checkpoints or locations in sequence along their chosen route, with higher levels of supportive staffing than the main Ten Tors event, including a qualified walking leader and additional DBS-checked adults per team to ensure safety and assistance. Up to 400 young people participate annually, emphasizing personal achievement, teamwork, and inclusion rather than competition. Successful completers receive medals based on prior participation: bronze for the first completion, silver for the second, and for the third and subsequent times, fostering repeated involvement and a sense of progression. Logistically, the challenge commences at 07:30 on from a start point near and must conclude by 17:00 the same day, with routes starting and finishing at Okehampton Camp to facilitate close supervision and accessibility.

Jubilee Challenge Plus

The Jubilee Challenge Plus was launched in 2024 as a pilot extension of the Jubilee Challenge, targeting young adults aged 14 to 19 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), such as social, emotional, and needs (SEMH), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or specific learning difficulties (SpLD), who are capable of more demanding overnight efforts. It was piloted in 2024 and run in 2025 as the Jubilee Challenge Plus, with plans to rename it the Dartmoor Granite Challenge starting in 2026. This variant addresses a gap for older SEND participants seeking greater challenge beyond the standard one-day Jubilee routes, while maintaining an inclusive focus on accessibility. The format consists of a 17.7-mile (28.5 km) route navigated over two days on Dartmoor's northern terrain, incorporating an overnight camp at a designated prepared by support teams. Participants visit 10 checkpoints in sequence, such as West Mill Tor, Yes Tor, Dinger Tor, Great Kneeset, Okement Hill, Watern Tor, Hound Tor, Cosdon Hill, Higher Tor, and East Mill Tor, contending with physically arduous paths and variable weather. Higher support is integral, with each team of up to 4 participants accompanied by 3 to 4 adults—including qualified walking leaders—who act as buddies to assist with navigation, welfare, and pacing; adapted equipment and mandatory gear lists ensure suitability for individual needs. The challenge builds on the Jubilee Challenge tradition by promoting greater independence, resilience, and outdoor skills for SEND young adults, with completion recognized through a system awarding for the first finish, silver for the second, and gold for third and subsequent efforts within age limits. Small team sizes and enhanced adult oversight prioritize safety and prevent overload, allowing focus on personal achievement over competition. It integrates seamlessly with the annual Ten Tors event, running concurrently to share and resources while emphasizing through tailored, supportive expedition experiences that highlight participants' capabilities.

Preparation and Impact

Qualifying and Training

To qualify for the Ten Tors Challenge, teams must undertake a structured and progressive training program that ensures participants are physically prepared, skilled in , and capable of self-sufficiency in challenging conditions. This includes a minimum of four days of training on , two nights of wild camping, and at least one full team expedition to simulate independent walking, with team managers certifying completion and competence. Teams typically complete practice hikes simulating the route distances under supervision by assessors to verify readiness. Youth participants, aged 14-19 with age eligibility varying by route (14-15 years for 35 miles, 16-17 for 45 miles, and 18-19 for 55 miles), focus on building skills in map-reading, , , and campcraft through programs offered by schools, cadet forces, or scout groups, starting with easier terrain and progressing to Dartmoor-specific exercises in , , and environmental awareness. Adult team managers undergo mandatory training to develop expertise in key areas, including , , and , often through qualifications such as the Mountain Leader or Hill and Leader awards, along with a current 16-hour certificate covering remote environments. They must also attend a Team Managers' Briefing, held annually in October at Camp, to review rules, safety protocols, and updates, with attendance required within three years of the event. Preparation follows a defined timeline to align with the May event: entries open via the Team Managers' Dashboard in early and close after three weeks, followed by team selection in late ; qualifying training and hikes then occur from to , emphasizing simulations of adverse and kit familiarization to build resilience. Official resources, such as the Ten Tors Event Guide, Green Card (outlining training rules and environmental guidelines), and equipment checklists, support this process by providing detailed protocols for route planning and safety. The challenge fosters partnerships with organizations like and local schools, enabling 189 establishments to coordinate training events, share resources, and scale participation through models that enhance development across groups.

Participant Benefits and Environmental Considerations

Participating in the Ten Tors Challenge develops key s such as resilience, , and among young people, as the event's demanding and self-reliant format require teams to overcome physical and mental challenges independently. The non-competitive emphasizes personal achievement over rivalry, fostering as participants must collaborate to complete routes of 35, 45, or 55 miles across . Completion of the challenge boosts self-confidence and , with teams building endurance through extensive training and the event's rigorous demands. The event attracts over 2,400 young participants annually, drawn from schools, youth organizations, and cadet groups across the South West of England. By immersing participants in Dartmoor's landscape, Ten Tors instills an appreciation for its and , encouraging future custodianship of the area. Environmental considerations are integral to Ten Tors, with the rules for training promoting low-impact practices akin to principles, including proper waste disposal, avoidance of , and minimizing disturbance to . Route planning is designed to reduce , directing teams along established paths and away from sensitive areas to prevent widening of tracks or damage to fragile soils. The organizers partner with to protect blanket bogs, instructing participants to avoid peat barriers and gully-draining structures that help restore these carbon-storing habitats. Sustainability efforts include low-impact camping guidelines, such as limiting group sizes to 14 people at backpack sites and restricting noise to preserve , with a heightened focus on these measures in event rules since the early . Monitoring of peatlands and is supported through route exclusions around rare bird nesting areas and collaboration with conservation initiatives to track and mitigate impacts on 's ecosystems.

References

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