Rambling through Rainforests and the Rhinogydd

Join Outdoor Lads for an expansive and varied hike in central Eryri; where we'll hike through rainforests, across rivers and up mountains, while passing lakes, ancient monuments and waterfalls.

Points of interest on the route:

Ceunant Llennyrch National Nature Reserve: We'll begin our walk by hiking into one of Europe's best preserved and oldest temperate rainforests. These forests are some of the most biodiverse habitats on Earth, with the forest we'll explore being continuously wooded for over 10,000 years, since the end of the last ice age. The predominantly oak and ash forest is home to species of ferns, mosses, lichens and liverworts that are unique to this habitat; as well as many animals, such as adders, cuckoos and badgers. In addition to it's natural beauty, the forest is also mythologically fascinating, being the scene of several Welsh legends from The Mabinogion. 

Afon Prysor Gorge: As we pass through the forest, we'll hike along the impressive gorge gouged out by Afon Prysor, where we'll make a slight detour to the impressive Rhaeadr Du waterfall. As well as being a geological marvel, the gorge is also home to river animals, such as dippers, pied flycatchers and even otters, which we may get a glimpse of, if we're lucky.

Llyn Trawsfynydd: This huge man made lake was once the power horse of area, providing water for both the Maentwrog hydroelectric power station and to the coolers of the Trawsfynydd nuclear power plant. We'll approach up to the imposing dam, which we'll eventually get on top of, to see expansive views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The Northern Rhinogydd: As we leave the lake, we join the Cambrian way and start the toughest but most spectacular section of the hike. The Rhinogs are Wales' wildest hills, with few discernible paths and rough mountain terrain. Due to its remoteness, these mountains are a great place to see some upland birds such as ravens, hen harriers and red kites.

Foel Penolau: Our first hill in the Rhinogs stands at 614m and was only promoted to mountain status in 2018, after it was discovered previous measurements had short changed it. The top is a rocky plateau, that will require some fun route finding and mild scrambling to reach.  

Moel Ysgyfarnogod: At 623m, this tongue twister of a hill is our highest point and second mountain in the Rhinogs. The summit is easily reached and offers perhaps one of Eryri's most spectacular views. To the north, are expansive views of the Snowdon Massif, Glyders, Carneddau, Nantlle Ridge and Moelwynions. To the east are views of the remote Aran and Arenig ranges, while to the south the rest of the Rhinogydd frames a great view of Cadair Idris. Lastly, to the west are sea views over the Irish Sea and Tremodog Bay, with Portmeirion in the distance.

Bryn Cader Faner: As we descend the Rhinogydd, we'll pass this bronze age cairn, looking like a crown of thorns left on the mountain side. Despite some damage caused by treasure hunters, the stone circle is still very well preserved and looks directly over the Snowdon Massif.

Other Infomation:

Dog Suitability 

Dogs are welcome, though will need to be controlled if we pass any livestock. There are also several stiles they may need lifting over.

New Members

Please feel free to sign up as your first OutdoorLads event. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to message me, or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".

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Image / photo credits: All leader's own images - with permission for OutdoorLads to use and reuse.