The range has been in continuous use since, and prior to 1925, it was a British Army range for over 25 years.
Some walkers may have noticed that the red flags and flashing lights indicating firing have become more commonplace in the Glen. In part, that’s due to the Defence Forces currently having many overseas operations, it’s also because the weapons being used are becoming larger, so the extensive range in the Glen of Imaal with its mountainous backwall is in high demand.
There are two permitted walking routes through the Department of Defence lands - the Camarahill and Table Track routes to Lugnaquilla. Use of these established walking routes is only possible on days when no shooting is taking place. The range boundary and these two routes are marked on EastWest and Ordnance Survey mapping. The remainder of the range is out of bounds at all times.
Shooting normally happens Monday to Friday; if you’re planning to climb Lugnaquilla from the Glen of Imaal, check in advance if shooting is planned by phoning 045-404653, or visit https://www.military.ie/en/public-information/glen-of-imaal-walking-route-closures/
A flashing red light or red flag means that shooting is taking place and civilian access is not permitted within the range boundary. There is a serious risk of injury and possibly death if you enter inside the range boundary when there is live fire. It is also against the law to enter the range on the day of shoots; you could face legal proceedings and a fine of €1,270.
Over the last three years the Defence Forces has experienced dramatically increased incursions on shootings days. In addition, during 2025 three walking groups encountered unexploded ordnance on, or close, to the permitted routes. If you come across anything that looks like military equipment, do not pick it up and immediately phone 045 404653 or the Range Warden on 087 6367262.
For advice on routes options for climbing Lugnaquilla, go to https://www.mountaineering.ie/_files/Lugnaquilla-route---updated-August-2025.pdf