PREPARATION

weather
ground conditions
river crossings
tying up
tie rails
equipment
tack etc
equipment checklist
map reading
Parking, Access

The weather is very changeable and challenging. The Mists can come in minutes and be so dense you will be completely lost. A GPS and compass are essential in these circumstances. It can be very cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. The wind can be very tiring and is probably the least enjoyable thing to endure. Always note the wind direction and remember it may be very useful if you head into the fog, i.e. which side of your face it was blowing on... It is always much colder and windier just up the hill so take extra clothes.

It is almost impossible to read a standard O.S. map in the wind and rain; the laminated sections of the riding guide maps make it a lot easier.

The past few years has seen the seasons mixed up so that you can forget which season it is. Longer trips might be best May – June and Sept – October. Some days it is so bad you will not want to or will be able to ride. Plan some alternatives and allow extra day(s) for this.

The Routes shown on the maps are what we have done in good weather; anything deeper into the moor and not on an obvious track should not be attempted in anything other than clear weather.