Mynydd Mawr from Rhyd Ddu hike
View Photos
Mynydd Mawr from Rhyd Ddu hike
Difficulty Rating:
In the shadow of busy Snowdon is the standalone summit of Mynydd Mawr. Escape the crowds and savour the solitude as you walk from Rhyd Ddu up a lovely grassy ridge to the peak, where you’ll be treated to great views of Craig y Bera, Nantlle Ridge, and Moel Hebog. The walk up Mynydd Mawr is quick, steep only in parts, and a perfect mountain escape when you only have the morning or afternoon to get outside.
Getting there
The Mynydd Mawr trailhead is right in Rhyd Ddu, beginning up the B4418 right before the 30 limit. You’ll see a forestry road which indicates the beginning of the trail.
About
| When to do | March-November |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Poor |
| Crowd Levels | Low |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Mynydd Mawr from Rhyd Ddu
Elevation Graph
Weather
Mynydd Mawr from Rhyd Ddu Trail Description
The Mynydd Mawr Trail is a gorgeous hike that enjoys far lighter crowds than nearby Snowdon, and you’ll appreciate the quiet as soon as you depart Rhyd Ddu.
The Mynydd Mawr trail begins on an old forestry road, which you’ll climb for about a kilometre. You’ll approach a path that leads up a hill where the trees have been felled. This portion is steep and there are stone “steps” to use.
You’ll soon climb onto a wider ridge, where you’ll be able to enjoy a great view of Llyn y Dywarchen. The trail up to the summit is obvious ahead of you. The trail slopes above Cwm Planwyddon on the right and Nantlle on the left. The views here are great, and since the hike is short, we recommend staying a while once you reach the summit to soak them up. While it’s not the best view of Snowdon (you’re looking at its “bad side”), the rest of the panorama is great.
When you’re ready to depart, you’ll simply retrace your steps on the same path to Rhyd Ddu. The trail branches off to the left a couple of times as you approach the town. Stay right, but know that you’ll end up on A4085 heading into town if you accidentally branch off.
Insider Hints
Cwellyn Arms and Ty Mawr are both near the trailhead if you fancy a drink or snack after your walk
There is parking just north of the trailhead off Cefn Cwellyn
Cwellyn Arms Campsite is just north of town if you’re looking to pitch your tent
Similar hikes to the Mynydd Mawr from Rhyd Ddu hike
Foel Goch via Bwlch Tryfan Walk
A walk up Foel Goch via Bwlch Tryfan is an excellent way to take in the iconic beauty of Tryfan…
Snowdon via Crib Goch and Miner’s Track
Of all the many routes up Snowdon, this approach via Crib Goch may be the most demanding! The walk starts…
Y Garn and the Glyderau
The Glyderau may be the most celebrated mountain range within Snowdonia National Park, and this full-day adventure visits the highlights!…
Comments