SH5438 : View from summit of Moel-y-Gest, the site of a prehistoric fort

Moel-y-Gest

263m Elevation
237m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH5438 : View from summit of Moel-y-Gest, the site of a prehistoric fort

Roger Templeman Photo source

Explore routes near Moel-y-Gest

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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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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Route planning notes

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

Moel-y-Gest Loop

A delightful loop starting from the village of Wern, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and a manageable ascent to the summit.

5.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 200-299m hill

Elevation

263m

863 ft

Prominence

237m

Coordinates

52.9278, -4.1597

SH549388

OS Map

124

Explorer: OL18W 254

At the Summit

The summit is crowned with a small cairn and a trig point, perfect for a cheeky selfie with the breathtaking backdrop.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of grassy slopes and rocky outcroppings with some boggy patches to keep your boots on their toes.

Moel-y-Gest is primarily composed of Ordovician slate and mudstone, giving the area a dramatic and rugged appearance. The geological formations here are a testament to the tremendous geological forces that shaped this ancient land.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy views over Porthmadog, the stunning Snowdonia mountains, and even glimpses of the Llyn Peninsula on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Moel-y-Gest' translates from Welsh as 'Hill of the Spoils', potentially linked to historical mining in the area.

Historical Significance

This area is rich in cultural history, once a bustling hub during the slate mining boom, now offering serene hikes amidst stunning landscapes.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Wern village hall, just a short walk from the trailhead.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate from Porthmadog, but plan ahead as they can be a bit infrequent.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on the mountain, but Porthmadog has plenty of options including cafes, shops, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of slippery rocks, especially after rain. The weather can change quicker than you can say 'How's your father?', so keep an eye out.

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-y-Gest?

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

Are there other walkers around Moel-y-Gest?

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-y-Gest search or of course create your own walk for Moel-y-Gest

Can I organise a walk to Moel-y-Gest?

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-y-Gest.

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-y-Gest?

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-y-Gest 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: SH549388

View on OpenStreetMap

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