SH7113 : Penygadair summit encircled in cloud

Cadair Idris - Penygadair

893m Elevation
606m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH7113 : Penygadair summit encircled in cloud

Jeremy Bolwell Photo source

Explore routes near Cadair Idris - Penygadair

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Cadair Idris - Pony Path

9 km ~3h Hard

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Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy from LLanuwchllyn

17.5 km ~9h Moderate

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Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track

12.3 km ~5h 30m Hard

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Lightspout Waterfall via Carding Mill Valley Circular

4.3 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Minffordd Path

This is the most popular and scenic route to the summit of Penygadair. Starting from the Minffordd car park, the path ascends steeply through woodland before reaching the shores of Llyn Cau, a stunning glacial lake. From there, the route climbs steeply up to the ridge and then follows it to the summit. The return is via the same path, offering beautiful views throughout.

10 km ~5 hours Hard

Pony Path (Llwybr Pilin Pwn)

This is the easiest and most straightforward route to the summit. Beginning near Ty Nant, the Pony Path ascends gradually along a well-defined track. It offers fantastic views of the Mawddach Estuary and Snowdonia as you progress. Ideal for those looking for a less challenging climb.

9 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Fox's Path

Fox's Path is a shorter but steeper and more challenging ascent to Penygadair. Starting near Llyn Gwernan, the path climbs directly to the summit, offering a more direct but strenuous route. The descent can be made via the Pony Path or Minffordd Path to avoid the steep scramble down.

6.5 km ~4 hours Hard

Dolgellau Path

Also known as the Llanfihangel-y-Pennant Path, this quieter route starts from the town of Dolgellau. It climbs steadily through farmland and open moorland before joining the Pony Path near the summit. A great option for those seeking a less crowded experience.

12 km ~6 hours Hard

Circular Route via Minffordd and Pony Path

For a longer and more varied adventure, this circular route combines the Minffordd Path for the ascent and the Pony Path for the descent. Starting at Minffordd, you'll ascend past Llyn Cau and the summit, then descend via the Pony Path to Ty Nant. A short walk along the road completes the loop.

14 km ~7 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain

Elevation

893m

2,929 ft

Prominence

606m

Coordinates

52.6996, -3.9088

SH711130

OS Map

124

Explorer: OL23W

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn and a trig point, providing excellent spots for a well-deserved rest followed by a triumphant selfie.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grassy slopes offering a mix of challenges for the adventurous hiker.

Cadair Idris is primarily composed of volcanic rock, consisting of mainly andesite and basalt. The unique geology, formed through ancient lava flows, results in stunning rocky outcrops and steep cliffs.

Views & Scenery

The summit offers spectacular views over Snowdonia, including the Mawddach Estuary, the peaks of the Rhinogydd, and the distant Cardigan Bay.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cadair Idris' translates to 'Idris's Chair', referring to a legendary giant who supposedly used the summit as a seat.

Historical Significance

The mountain holds a significant place in local folklore and is associated with tales of poetry and dreams, making it a cultural landmark as well as a natural one.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Minffordd Car Park (SH709121), which holds around 50 vehicles. It fills quickly during weekends, so arrive early to nab a spot.

Public Transport

Frequent bus services run from Dolgellau to the nearby Minffordd area, but check current schedules.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities are in Dolgellau, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and public toilets. Always handy for a post-hike meal!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Very steep drops near the summit, variable weather conditions, and loose rocks on the paths.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cadair Idris - Penygadair?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cadair Idris - Penygadair through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cadair Idris - Penygadair?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Cadair Idris - Penygadair search or of course create your own walk for Cadair Idris - Penygadair

Can I organise a walk to Cadair Idris - Penygadair?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Cadair Idris - Penygadair.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Cadair Idris - Penygadair?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Cadair Idris - Penygadair here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SH711130

View on OpenStreetMap

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