Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX is a short 1.0 km out-and-back from Swallerton Gate car park to Hound Tor, gaining 37 m. The granite outcrop is visible across open moorland from the start, and the clear worn line rises gently towards the rocks. Hound Tor's central outcrop stands at about 414 m and gives broad views over eastern Dartmoor. The GPX ends at the tor and returns by the same path; it does not continue to the deserted medieval village, Greator Rocks or Haytor. The walking line is easy, but the ground is uneven and exposed, and climbing on the granite is optional and outside the route.
Hound Tor is close to the road, but the granite outcrops have drops, gaps and loose blocks that are not shown by the short mileage. The GPX reaches the tor and returns without requiring any climbing on the rocks. In fog, identify the car park direction before leaving the outcrop because paths spread across the open moor. Keep away from grazing animals and do not disturb archaeological features around the medieval settlement nearby. Children need close supervision around the higher boulders and gaps.
Hound Tor is a few miles to the west of Haytor and also has impressive granite outcrops at Hound Tor Rocks.
Dartmoor National Park
Route Waypoints
Start from the informal car park at Swallerton Gate, grid SX 739 792. Hound Tor is visible to the south-east; follow the worn path across the open moor.
Continue directly towards the tor on the clearest established line. Grass and peaty ground can be muddy after rain, despite the very short distance.
The ground becomes rockier as you approach the granite outcrops. Stay on the walking line and watch for loose or slippery stones.
Reach the central Hound Tor outcrop at about 414 m. Enjoy the views without climbing beyond your ability; wet or icy granite is extremely slippery. Turn around here.
Leave the rocks by the same walking line. Climbing the granite blocks is optional and unnecessary for completing the route.
Follow the path back towards Swallerton Gate. In mist, use a bearing because several trods cross the short stretch of moor.
Retrace the same path to the car park. This GPX does not visit the medieval settlement below the tor.
Return to the recognised parking area and keep road access clear. Check for livestock before opening gates.
Essential Tips
The GPX is a walk to the tor, not a climbing route. Do not scramble on wet or icy rock, supervise children closely and avoid any move you cannot safely reverse.
The route is short but exposed, with no shelter between the car park and tor. Carry a windproof or waterproof layer and use map-and-compass skills if mist hides the car park.
If Swallerton Gate is full, do not park on verges, in front of gates or where you could block the road. Dartmoor National Park asks visitors to find another suitable parking place.
Keep dogs under close control around livestock and on a lead from 1 March to 31 July during lambing and ground-nesting bird season. Take all litter and dog waste home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Hound Tor walk from Swallerton Gate?
This GPX is a 1.0 km out-and-back with 37 m of ascent. The calculated walking-time estimate is about 15 minutes, before time spent enjoying the views or exploring safely around the tor.
Is the Hound Tor route suitable for beginners?
The walking route is graded Easy and follows a short worn line over open moorland. The ground is uneven and can be muddy, while climbing on the granite is optional and not part of the GPX. Supervise children closely near the rocks.
Where do I park and which OS map covers Hound Tor?
Start at Swallerton Gate car park, grid SX 739 792. Carry OS Explorer OL28, Dartmoor. If the car park is full, do not block gates, verges or the road; find another suitable parking place.