SH7054 : Summit cairn, Moel Siabod

Moel Siabod

872m Elevation
600m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH7054 : Summit cairn, Moel Siabod

Roger Cornfoot Photo source

Explore routes near Moel Siabod

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

Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track

12.3 km ~5h 30m Hard

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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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Route planning notes

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

Daear Ddu Ridge Circular

This classic route starts from the Moel Siabod Café in Capel Curig. Follow the well-marked path leading to Moel Siabod's rugged Daear Ddu Ridge, providing light scrambling opportunities and stunning views of Snowdonia. Descend via the southern slopes and rejoin the path back to the café.

11.5 km ~5 hours Moderate

Llyn y Foel Approach via Plas y Brenin

Begin at Plas y Brenin Mountain Centre and head towards Llyn y Foel. The route ascends towards the summit via its eastern slopes, offering a quieter alternative to the ridge. A beautiful lake and gradual ascent make this a scenic and rewarding hike.

10 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Capel Curig to Moel Siabod Linear Hike

Starting in Capel Curig, this linear route takes you directly to the summit via the west ridge. The path is steep in sections but less technical than the Daear Ddu Ridge. The route offers panoramic views and is ideal for those seeking a straightforward ascent.

7 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Pont Cyfyng Circular

Starting at Pont Cyfyng, this circular route follows a gradual ascent to the summit via forest trails and open moorland. Descend via the Daear Ddu Ridge for a varied hike that combines woodland and mountain terrain.

12 km ~5.5 hours Challenging

Moel Siabod West Ridge Scramble

This route is perfect for experienced scramblers. Starting at the Ty'n-y-Coed parking area, the west ridge offers a more rugged and hands-on ascent to the summit. The descent follows a gentler path back to the starting point.

9 km ~4.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain

Elevation

872m

2,862 ft

Prominence

600m

Coordinates

53.0732, -3.9341

SH705546

OS Map

115

Explorer: OL18E

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent rocky outcrop and a large cairn, offering a perfect spot for a well-deserved rest and perhaps a cheeky snack.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of steep incline and some loose stones near the summit.

Moel Siabod primarily consists of volcanic rock, specifically rhyolite, which gives rise to its rugged terrain. The mountain showcases fascinating geological features such as crags and cliffs formed from ancient lava flows.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can see the peaks of Snowdon, Tryfan, and the expansive Llyn Tegid area. On a clear day, the coast of Merionethshire can be spotted!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Moel Siabod' translates to 'the hill of shadows' in Welsh, reflecting the eerie allure of its peaks.

Historical Significance

This mountain has been a favourite among hikers for generations and is celebrated in Welsh folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at the start of the General's Footpath at SH705546. Please arrive early as spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Public Transport

The nearest train station is in Betws-y-Coed, approximately 9 km away. Local bus services operate from Betws-y-Coed to nearby locations. Hikers are advised to check the schedule.

Nearby Facilities

Various cafes and restaurants can be found in Capel Curig, along with public toilets. A good place to stock up on supplies before hitting the trail.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, particularly on the steeper trails; sudden weather changes typical of Snowdonia; and navigation challenges in misty conditions.

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 Moel Siabod?

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

Are there other walkers around Moel Siabod?

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 Moel Siabod search or of course create your own walk for Moel Siabod

Can I organise a walk to Moel Siabod?

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 Moel Siabod.

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 Moel Siabod?

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 Moel Siabod 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

Moel Siabod location map

Grid reference: SH705546

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

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Carnedd Dafydd

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Moelwyn Mawr

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See 5 more nearby hills