SH9210 : A dry one

Carnedd Wen

523m Elevation
231m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH9210 : A dry one

Anton Ciritis Photo source

Explore routes near Carnedd Wen

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

Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy from LLanuwchllyn

17.5 km ~9h Moderate

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Cadair Idris - Pony Path

9 km ~3h Hard

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Mawddach Trail: Penmaenpool to Arthog Estuary Return

14.7 km ~4h 15m Easy

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Mawddach Trail: Penmaenpool to Dolgellau Riverside Return

7.3 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Route planning notes

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

Via the Carneddau Horseshoe

This classic route takes you around the breathtaking Carneddau massif, offering stunning views and a chance to traverse several summits.

12.5 km ~5 hours Challenging

Starting from Bethesda

A more accessible route suitable for most fitness levels, starting from the town of Bethesda and leading up through scenic valleys.

8 km ~3 hours Moderate
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Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey

Elevation

523m

1,716 ft

Prominence

231m

Coordinates

52.6763, -3.5928

SH924099

OS Map

125

Explorer: OL23E 215W

At the Summit

The summit features a substantial stone cairn and an impressive rock outcrop, which doubles up as a breathtaking viewpoint. Don’t forget to take a selfie with it – rock stars deserve their moment too!

Terrain & Geology

A mixed terrain of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes with some boggy patches to keep you on your toes (and mud on your boots).

Carnedd Wen is primarily composed of slate and schist, common rock types in the Snowdonia region, offering not just a sturdy platform for your ascent but also hints at the region's geological history. The beautiful purple and grey hues of the rock formations add to the mountain's charm.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, gaze upon the sprawling vistas of the Snowdonia National Park, including views of Tryfan, the Glyderau range, and beyond, with the distant Irish Sea visible on clear days.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carnedd Wen' translates roughly to 'White Cairn', a nod to the summit's often snow-capped peaks and its prominent stone marker.

Historical Significance

Carnedd Wen is integral to the history of mountain climbing in Wales, renowned for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain, drawing adventurers for generations.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Ogwen Cottage car park, approximately 5 km from the mountain's base. Be aware that it can get busy.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from nearby towns like Bethesda and Llanberis to Ogwen, making car-free visits feasible.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities can be found in Bethesda, including cafes, local shops, and public toilets to refresh after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential rockfall in steep areas, sudden changes in weather, and low visibility in mist are common hazards to keep in mind. Make sure to check forecast conditions before heading up.

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 Carnedd Wen?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Carnedd Wen through the maps

Are there other walkers around Carnedd Wen?

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 Carnedd Wen search or of course create your own walk for Carnedd Wen

Can I organise a walk to Carnedd Wen?

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 Carnedd Wen.

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 Carnedd Wen?

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 Carnedd Wen here

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

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SH924099

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