Walking on Dartmoor is magical, Dartmoor has over 47,000 hectares of open countryside and 450 miles of public rights of way. Dartmoor is a great place for walking, cycling, horseriding, climbing, camping, canoeing, picnicking and watching wildlife.  Most of Dartmmor's open moorland is common land and accessible for walking.

To stay safe it is important to observe the Dartmoor National Park Authority Guidelines::

Before you go:

1. check the weather (call Weathercall on 09014 722054), be prepared for sudden changes in weather
2. check the firing times for the Range Danger Areas (freephone 0800 4584868)
3. plan your route carefully
4. take sufficient provisions - walking uses a lot of energy, ensure you stop to eat and drink regularly
5. wear and carry the right equipment: a large scale map and compass, a waterproof rucksack, spare dry clothes, wear proper footwear
6. let someone know where you are going and your estimated return time
7. unless you are experienced do not walk alone in remote parts

Using the Moor:

• use stiles and gates to cross boundaries, do not climb walls or fences.  Keep to paths across farm land
• do not pick up any strange or metal objects especially in or near a Range Danger Area.  Report anything suspicious to the Police
• keep away from moorland livestock, their behaviour can be unpredictable!
• observe all advice signs
• take great care crossing a river, find a bridge or crossing point
• guard against fire
• fasten all gates and avoid damage to fences, hedges and walls
• keep dogs under control
• leave no litter, take it home! - not only is litter unsightly, it can cause fires, may injure people, livestock and wildlife
• protect wildlife, wild plants and trees
• do not disturb ruins and historic sites

One of the most popular ways of exploring and walking the moor is by "Letterboxing".

Letterboxing is a leisure activity undertaken by individuals or groups of people of all ages and abilities.  The purpose of letterboxing is to locate boxes that have been placed by others by following clues and using navigational skills.  There are thousands of boxes placed all over the moor by individuals and clubs.  There are also charity walks available throughout the year.

Letterboxing is both challenging and enjoyable, often taking you to parts of the moor that otherwise you would not have thought of visiting.  The letterboxes are normally plastic containers that contain a rubber stamp and visitors book.  When a letterbox has been found/located, the visitor would use the rubber stamp in their own book and then use their own rubber stamp in the book or make a comment to record their visit.

There is a Letterboxing Club which meets twice a year with updates on new and removed boxes.