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Steeperton Gorge

Steeperton Gorge is where the Taw comes hurtling through a narrow valley off the upper parts of the moor. The gorge is a beautiful place to walk alongside. At the top of the gorge are remains of an old tin mine. The name derives from the adjacent Steeperton Tor which is one of Dartmoor's most steep tors to climb.
Steeperton Gorge is quite easy to get to.  Park at Belstone village (SX 620932) and take the track out of the village heading southwards towards Taw Plain. Continue along the track heading for the obvious peak of Steepeton Tor. The gorge is to the right of the tor. Climb up the gorge until you get to Knack Mine ford. You may then walk back along the ridge past Oke Tor back to Belstone. 
The walk is straightforward, dry and always near to identifiable tracks. Even in mist you are unlikely to be in serious problems. Allow about 3 hours. Oke Tor and Steeperton Tor lie near to army ranges so be aware of any red flags.
 
This is a view of Belstone Village and its green at SX 620932. 
Belstone Cleave through which the Taw exits the moor.
The well head of an underground water extraction plant. There are a few of these scattered around Taw Plain.
An old structure at SX 618917.
An easterly view towards the Taw ford. In the background is Cosdon.
The ford over the Taw at SX 620914. The ford has been concreted to help military vehicles over. This ford is usually passable.
Following a track across Taw Plain and heading towards Steeperton.
Taw Plain with Belstone on the left.
Looking towards Belstone Tors from SX 618900.
Taw Marsh at the bottom of Steeperton Gorge - SX 618898.
Looking northwards along Steeperton Gorge. Cosdon lies on the horizon.
The Taw stream rushing through Steeperton Gorge.
Steeperton Gorge.
The head of Steeperton Gorge near Knack Mine ford.
The Knack Mine ford over the Taw at SX 615885. There used to be a clapper bridge here - its remains can still be seen in the stream bed. 
A view over Knack Mine ford and the start of Steeperton Gorge. On the right is Steeperton Tor and on the left the track leading to Oke Tor.
The mine house of Knack Mine at SX 614884. There are 2 rooms and the remains of a fireplace. The view points SW along the upper Taw valley.
Looking back at Knack Mine ford. The track was originally an old peat road between Belstone and Hangingstone Hill.
Steeperton Tor on the right with Steeperton Gorge in between. On the horizon is Cosdon.
Along the ridge heading towards Oke Tor. Belsone Tors are in the distance.
The view over Ockment Hill from Oke Tor. Just below the hill lies East Ockment head.
A southerly look back at Oke Tor, Steeperton and the upper part of Taw Marsh from SX 611910.
Looking over Taw Marsh from SX 611910.
The Nine Maidens circle on Watchet Hill at SX 613928. There are more than nine stones here but the name probably refers to some pagan nature religion where nine had some significance. In the distance lie West Mill and Yes Tors.
 


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