Cader Idris via Pony Path

Setting off from the car park, walk onto the road and turn right to cross a bridge, quickly spotting a signpost for the Pony Path on your left. Take this trail as it passes a farmhouse and over a stone bridge, at which point it begins to ascend. There are a few gates to pass through (or clamber over), but nothing that should deter you from the well-used path. A short 328ft section known as the Rhiw Gwreddyd awaits—push through this, and a nice spot for a rest is at the top, marked by a wood and wire fence complete with gate and stile.

Once through the gate, keep on the path as it bears left and climbs once more. The weaving route is marked by plenty of unmissable stone cairns. As you approach the summit, the trail gets rockier and may require some scrambling, but nothing technical. Then you’ve arrived at the peak of Cader Idris (which, strangely enough, is actually called Pen y Gader). Enjoy sweeping views of the rugged Rhinogydds to the north and the softer hills of Mid Wales to the south. When you’re ready to return, simply retrace your steps back down the Pony Path and out to the Ty Nant car park.