Cader Idris via Llanfihangel y Pennant

From the car park, set off along the country lane in a northern direction. The track bears right to follow the Afon Cader uphill. You’ll come to a fork – the “official” path is on the right, but the broad path to your left provides easier terrain. Regardless of your choice, the paths merge again after roughly 1.2mi and continue north. At Gwastadfryn, cross the river and follow a grassy path on the right. Keep the summit of Tyrrau Mawr on your left as you work around its lower slopes, the path bearing slightly left as you approach then swerving to the right to bypass the mountain. Once past Tyrrau Mawr, continue on a northeast bearing as you ascend to the bwlch, with views over the Mawddach Estuary to the north.

Here you’ll join the well-worn Pony Path for the final push to the summit of Cader Idris. This is an extremely clear path with little in the way of surprises! Turn right to join the path and walk to the peak of Cader Idris. Interestingly enough, the summit itself is known as Penygader (“top of the chair”). A shelter just below the top provides a reprieve in bad weather. Otherwise, take in the spectacular views over the surrounding lakes and mountains. Return along the Pony Path the way you came, turning left this time to rejoin your original route. Follow this all the way back down to the car park to complete the adventure.