On May 10, 2025, thousands of teenagers are embarking on the 63rd annual Ten Tors Challenge on Dartmoor, a rigorous event organized by the British Army's Headquarters South West. The challenge, which sees approximately 2,400 participants forming 400 teams of six, requires them to navigate routes across the northern half of Dartmoor over a span of two days. The selected routes range between 35 and 55 miles (56-88 km), presenting a formidable test of endurance and teamwork.
As the teams prepare to set off from Okehampton Camp at 07:00, they are met with heightened concerns regarding fire safety due to an increased wildfire risk in the area. The Fire Severity Index has indicated that the risk of fire will escalate from high to very high on the same day the challenge begins. This warning follows a recent wildfire that ravaged over 1,000 acres of Dartmoor just a week prior, prompting officials to urge caution among participants and visitors alike.
The Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) has implemented robust contingency plans to ensure the safety of all participants during the challenge. Following a significant wildfire that broke out on May 4, 2025, which destroyed 1,250 acres of moorland, additional briefings on fire safety have been provided to the young challengers. Richard Drysdale, the Director of Conservation and Communities for DNPA, stated that the fire severity index remains high, particularly during this weekend when groups of young people will be trekking across the unforgiving terrain.
"Those teenagers taking part will trek unaided... and will encounter some of the toughest terrain and highest peaks in southern England," the Army Headquarters South West remarked, emphasizing the challenge's intensity. The event serves not only as a physical test but also as an opportunity for personal growth, teamwork, and resilience among the young participants.
In addition to the main challenge, up to 400 young people with special needs are participating in the Jubilee Challenge, a one-day event that offers four different routes tailored to their abilities. This inclusion showcases the event's commitment to accessibility and community engagement, allowing a broader range of youth to experience the beauty and challenges of Dartmoor.
As the Ten Tors Challenge unfolds, the DNPA has issued several safety advisories in light of the heightened fire risk. Participants are urged to leave BBQs at home, avoid lighting campfires, and safely dispose of any smoking materials. Moreover, they are reminded to keep glass bottles away, as sunlight passing through glass can ignite fires, and to take all litter home to preserve the pristine environment.
Following the recent wildfire, which was classified as accidental by the fire service, the DNPA has taken proactive measures to prevent further incidents. The blaze, which lasted nearly 24 hours, required the efforts of 13 fire crews battling the flames in the remote Cut Hill area. Fortunately, the fire did not pose a threat to nearby properties or individuals, as the affected area was isolated and far from densely wooded regions.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather and the terrain, the spirit of camaraderie and determination among the participants shines through. The Ten Tors Challenge not only tests physical limits but also fosters a sense of community and shared experience among the young adventurers. As they navigate the rugged landscape, they are reminded of the importance of teamwork and resilience.
As the event progresses, the DNPA continues to monitor conditions closely, erecting new ‘high fire risk’ signs across the moor and launching a media campaign to raise awareness. The local community has also played a crucial role in managing fire risks, with commoners alerting the fire service promptly during the recent blaze. Philip Sanders, a park member, highlighted the importance of local knowledge in effectively responding to such emergencies.
In light of the dry conditions, park officials are keenly aware that even with some rainfall, the fire severity will not diminish significantly. The DNPA remains committed to ensuring the safety of all participants while allowing them to engage with the natural environment responsibly. As the Ten Tors Challenge continues, the focus remains on both the achievement of the participants and the preservation of Dartmoor's unique landscape.
In conclusion, the Ten Tors Challenge embodies the spirit of adventure and resilience among young people, all while navigating the complexities of environmental safety. With thousands of teenagers embarking on this daunting trek, the event not only tests their physical capabilities but also emphasizes the importance of safety and responsibility in the face of nature's unpredictability.
