SH7423 : The road through Coed y Brenin

Cefn Ffridd-goch

268m Elevation
41m Prominence
Wales Country

Good walks are even better shared.

SH7423 : The road through Coed y Brenin

David Medcalf Photo source

Overview

Cefn Ffridd-goch

Cefn Ffridd-goch, towering at 542 meters, is an inviting summit nestled in the majestic Snowdonia National Park. Known for its captivating views and relatively accessible routes, this mountain proves to be a favourite among locals and visiting hikers alike.

Geology

The mountain's foundation is made up of ancient volcanic rock, which has withstood the test of time and weather. The dramatic geology here is not just a treat for the keen geologist but also for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Access

Parking

To start your adventure, head to Tanygrisiau, the nearest village where you'll find parking that fills up quickly, particularly on sunny weekends. Arriving early can save you a few steps!

Public Transport

For those relying on public transport, local buses connect Blaenau Ffestiniog and Tanygrisiau, but be sure to check the scheduleβ€”it has a mind of its own!

Routes

One popular route is the Ffridd-goch Path, which allows for a gentle but rewarding ascent through the picturesque landscape, making it suitable for a variety of hikers. At 4.5 km, it shouldn't take more than 2.5 hours, barring any long lunch breaks admiring the surroundings.

Summit Features

When you reach the summit, be sure to take a moment near the cairn and trig point. Here, you can reflect on achieving another peak and enjoy sweeping views that make all the effort worth it. Bring your camera; trust us, your Instagram followers will thank you!

Terrain

The terrain consists mostly of grassy areas, complemented by some rocky patches especially as you near the summit. It's quite manageable, but sturdy footwear is always recommended.

Views

The summit serves up panoramic views, with Snowdon's majestic profile and the tranquil valleys sprawling beneath. Best times to enjoy these vistas are in spring and autumn, when the skies are clearerβ€”rain and fog tend to come uninvited in summer.

Hazards

Be cautious of rapid weather changes. And let’s not forget about the local sheepβ€”they may appear friendly but they can be a bit territorial about their lunch spots!

Nearby Summits

Cefn Ffridd-goch also has several neighbours that deserve a visit. Moelwyn Mawr and Y Garn are both fantastic hikes that offer their own unique experiences.

Facilities

While there aren’t any facilities on the mountain, the nearby town of Blaenau Ffestiniog offers various cafes for that all-important pit stop and public toilets too.

History

The name 'Cefn Ffridd-goch' or 'the ridge of the red hillside' not only captures the essence of the mountain's landscape but also speaks to its cultural importance among local folklore.

So lace up your boots, pack your lunch, and remember; adventure awaits at Cefn Ffridd-goch!

Explore routes near Cefn Ffridd-goch

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

Route planning notes

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

Ffridd-goch Path

A gentle ascent from the west, following a well-marked path through lush heather and grasslands. This route rewards hikers with beautiful views as they approach the summit.

4.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

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

Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

200-299m hill

Elevation

268m

879 ft

Prominence

41m

Coordinates

52.7960, -3.8614

SH745236

OS Map

124

Explorer: OL18W

At the Summit

The summit features a modest cairn, which, if it could talk, would likely boast about all the breathtaking views it witnesses daily. There's also a trig point for the keen photographers among you!

Terrain & Geology

Primarily grassy with some rocky patches near the summit making it suitable for most hikers. However proper footwear is still advisable.

Cefn Ffridd-goch is primarily composed of volcanic rock, typical of the rugged terrain found throughout Snowdonia. The geology is fascinating, showcasing the dramatic processes that created this stunning landscape millions of years ago.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the peaks of Snowdon, Moel Siabod, and the expansive valleys of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, it's a photographer's dream.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cefn Ffridd-goch' translates to 'the ridge of the red hillside', which is quite fitting for the area's scenery. Keep an eye out for the reddish hues of the heather during blooming seasons.

Historical Significance

Like many peaks in Snowdonia, Cefn Ffridd-goch carries historical significance tied to local legends and stories of the past, particularly among the Welsh culture and traditions.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the village of Tanygrisiau, where there's a small car park available for hikers. It fills up quickly during weekends, so arrive early or risk parking a bit farther away.

Public Transport

Local buses run from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Tanygrisiau, making it easier to access the trailhead without a car. Check the schedule as they can be a bit erratic.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities on the mountain itself. However, nearby Blaenau Ffestiniog has cafes and public toilets, perfect for a pre-adventure coffee or a post-hike snack.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for unexpected changes in weather, as conditions can shift rapidly in this region. Also be mindful of sheep who might think they're the kings of the hill!

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 Cefn Ffridd-goch?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cefn Ffridd-goch through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cefn Ffridd-goch?

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 Cefn Ffridd-goch search or of course create your own walk for Cefn Ffridd-goch

Can I organise a walk to Cefn Ffridd-goch?

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 Cefn Ffridd-goch.

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 Cefn Ffridd-goch?

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 Cefn Ffridd-goch 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