Dartmoor is one of the last wildernesses in England. It is a National Park, and occupies some 368 square miles of hills topped by granite outcrops - the 'Tors'. At its lowest points Dartmoor touches 325 feet above sea level, and the highest Tor-capped hill reaches 2018 feet. The valleys and dips between the hills often hold bogs to trap the unwary walker. Only two major roads cross the Moor - others take a more cautious route around its skirts.

The Moor has long been used by the British Army as a training and firing range. Approximately 156 square miles of the moor are owned or leased by the MoD for military training, and three ranges are used for much of the year for live firing exercises.

In 1959 three Army officers felt that the Moor would provide a challenge for civilians as well as soldiers, and Ten Tors was conceived. In the first year 203 boys and girls took up the challenge - and the Army thoughtfully suspended firing exercises.

The Ten Tors event takes place one weekend in May, every year, and is now limited to 2400 individuals - 400 teams of six teenagers. The teams, depending on age and ability, face hikes of 35, 45 or 55 miles between ten nominated Tors over two days. The intention is that the teams shall be self-sufficient, carrying everything they need to survive two days on the Moor.

For more information on this event, please contact your Platoon Commander.