Before you go
Dartmoor Safety Tips
Firing times, weather checks and a little preparation before heading onto the moor. Take a few minutes to check — then enjoy your walk with a better plan.
01 · Check access
Military firing times
Dartmoor has active military training areas. Check the official MOD programme for your walking date and every range your route crosses, including Okehampton, Willsworthy and Merrivale.
Check official Dartmoor firing times ↗- Range boundaries are marked by red-and-white poles. Obey warning signs, flags, lights and instructions from range staff.
- Do not rely on not seeing a flag as an “all clear”. Check the programme and local warnings; if you are unsure, stay outside the danger area.
- Check before every visit, including weekends. The programme can change, so use the official page rather than an old screenshot.
- Never touch military debris or suspicious objects. Note the location from a safe distance and report it to the police or a Training Safety Officer.
Source: Ministry of Defence / Defence Infrastructure Organisation, linked above. This page does not display live range status.
02 · Check the forecast
Dartmoor weather
The moor can feel like a different world from the town below. Sunshine can give way to mist, rain and strong winds, so check the forecast shortly before you set out.
Met Office: Princetown forecast ↗A useful Dartmoor starting point. Check forecasts for locations along your route too; exposed tors may be colder and windier than Princetown.
- Rain: timing, intensity and the chance of showers.
- Wind: gusts as well as average speed, particularly on exposed tors.
- Temperature: the “feels like” forecast and extra layers for stops.
- Visibility: fog and low cloud can make navigation difficult.
Heading to the Lake District?
03 · Expect changing ground
Moorland conditions
General advice · Page updated 13 October 2026
This is not a live conditions report.
After rain, paths and open moorland can become boggy or slippery. Wear supportive footwear with good grip; waterproof boots are a sensible choice for wet ground.
Streams and rivers can rise quickly. If a crossing looks unsafe, turn back or take a safe alternative — stepping stones may be submerged or slippery.
Carry a map and compass and know how to use them, even when you start in clear weather. Download any digital mapping before leaving and carry a charged phone, but allow for poor signal and battery failure.
John’s reminder: Dartmoor fog is no joke. Have a shorter route or a turn-back point in mind, and leave enough daylight to get back comfortably.
Ready for the moor?
Quick safety checklist
- Check official firing times and local warnings
- Check the forecast for your route
- Tell someone your route and expected return time
- Carry a map and compass — and know how to use them
- Pack waterproofs, extra layers, food and water
- Take a charged phone, torch and basic first-aid kit
Adapt your route to the conditions and your experience. Turning back is always an option — the tors will still be there another day.
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