SH6544 : View towards Moelwyn Bach

Moelwyn Mawr

770m Elevation
385m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH6544 : View towards Moelwyn Bach

Richard Webb Photo source

Explore routes near Moelwyn Mawr

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.

Classic Moelwyn Mawr Circuit via Moelwyn Bach

This popular route begins at Croesor (grid ref SH631446) and ascends Moelwyn Bach before continuing to Moelwyn Mawr. The route offers stunning views of Snowdonia, including Cnicht and the coastline. From Moelwyn Mawr, descend via a path skirting the disused quarries, completing the loop back to Croesor.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Moelwyn Mawr from Tanygrisiau via Stwlan Dam

Starting at Tanygrisiau (grid ref SH683448), this route ascends via the impressive Stwlan Dam. After following the access road to the dam, the path climbs steeply to Moelwyn Mawr’s summit. Descend by looping around Moelwyn Bach and returning to Tanygrisiau, passing by old quarry workings along the way.

9 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Cnicht and Moelwyn Mawr Horseshoe

This demanding horseshoe route starts at Croesor (grid ref SH631446) and combines the iconic Cnicht with Moelwyn Mawr and Moelwyn Bach. The walk follows a ridge, providing expansive views and an adventurous feel. The descent involves navigating quarry paths back to the starting point.

14 km ~6 hours Hard

Moelwyn Mawr via Rhosydd Quarry

This route starts at the Croesor car park (grid ref SH631446) and ascends via the fascinating ruins of Rhosydd Quarry. From the quarry, the path climbs steeply to Moelwyn Mawr’s summit. The descent takes a direct route via Craigysgafn back to the starting point.

8 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Moelwyn Mawr Direct Ascent from Croesor

A shorter and more direct route, this walk starts at Croesor (grid ref SH631446) and climbs directly to Moelwyn Mawr via Craigysgafn. Ideal for those seeking a quick ascent, this route provides excellent views but is steep in places, requiring good fitness and care on the descent.

6 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall

Elevation

770m

2,526 ft

Prominence

385m

Coordinates

52.9843, -4.0001

SH658448

OS Map

124

Explorer: OL18W

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent rocky outcrop and a cairn, providing perfect spots for a well-deserved rest and a few selfies.

Terrain & Geology

Mixed with rocky scrambles grassy slopes and occasional boggy patches.

The mountain is primarily composed of granite and volcanic rock, which give it a rugged, resilient character. Geological formations reveal ancient geological processes that shaped the landscape.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Snowdon, as well as valleys like the Vale of Ffestiniog.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Moelwyn Mawr translates to 'Big White Hill', likely referring to the occasional whitish hue of the granite rock.

Historical Significance

The mountain has historical significance in local folklore, often featured in tales of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Blaen y Nant car park, which has space for several cars but can fill up quickly during weekends.

Public Transport

There are limited bus services from Porthmadog to nearby villages; check local schedules for timings.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities on the mountain itself, Ffestiniog offers cafes, shops, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks on the ascent can pose a risk. Be wary of rapidly changing weather conditions which can lead to poor visibility.

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 Moelwyn Mawr?

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

Are there other walkers around Moelwyn Mawr?

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 Moelwyn Mawr search or of course create your own walk for Moelwyn Mawr

Can I organise a walk to Moelwyn Mawr?

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 Moelwyn Mawr.

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 Moelwyn Mawr?

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 Moelwyn Mawr 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: SH658448

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Cnicht

691m

Y Lliwedd

898m

Moel Siabod

872m

 Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa

Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa

1,085m

Glyder Fawr

1,001m
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