The Two Moors Walking Challenge post #1
Bare Bones: Dartmoor to Exmoor, Wembury to Ivybridge to Scorriton to Chagford to Morchard Road to Yeo Mill to Withypool to Lynmouth. Approx. 115 miles
Dates: Tuesday 26th May to Wednesday 3rd June
Days to go: 96
The truth is, I’m not sure if I can do this. To help, I’ve slotted in a day-off in Chagford, so the walk is chopped up into two halves: 3 days to Chagford, followed by 4 to Lynmouth.
I have two reasons for doubting my ability to complete the challenge. First is a toe problem. Second is my failed attempt to cross the North York Moors a few summers ago.
However, with 96 days to go, I can do some prep. The problems in the North York Moors were (a) the toe (b) heatwave (c) carrying a heavy load…and realising I’m not 25 anymore. This time, I have sherpas (!) in the form of luggage transfers, so will only need to take a daysack on the hikes. That should alleviate undue pressure on neck, shoulders, back and most importantly the fourth toe on my left foot which loves to complain if it’s overworked.
But, man, am I looking forward to this! I’ve been pondering the Two Moors Challenge for a few years and last year’s few days on the Camino has given sufficient push to get it done.
I’m looking forward to the scenery, mist and fog permitting, taking photos, sharing the walk with fellow travellers as on the Camino, and maybe some friends who join in for a day or two, and the full moon that should accompany the evenings and nights. And the physical challenge. The longest day walk (given that I don’t get lost) is 22 miles. The furthest I’ve walked for probably a year is not much more than 5 miles, so I need to put that right.
And, if I may, the spiritual challenge. But more of that in subsequent posts.
Kit: My trusty leather uppers and Vibram soled walking boots are showing signs of aging. A split is developing between sole and upper leather…so…yesterday I purchased a new pair. A lighter variety, more for moors than mountains. Other than that, I think I have sufficient kit.
Today: a cold Northerly, diagonal cold rain, and a dull overcastness that has seemingly deposited itself like a beached whale, over much of the UK refusing to move on, all add together to keep me indoors, two jumpers and a scarf on, until the house decides to pay attention to the central heat.