Walk 1204 - Cadair Idris from Minffordd

     
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Cadair Idris is one of the great mountains of Snowdonia and its proximity to the sea is one of its attractions. However on closer inspection it is a mountain area of high quality with numerous crags and cwms and worth more than one visit. This route starts at the car park at Minffordd (grid ref. SH732115) and follows a well maintained path for most of the ascent. (See walk 1172 for details of the northern ascent route using the Pony Path)

From the car park take the signed path. Initially you climb steeply through beautiful woodland gaining height quickly. The path is flagged and progress is easy. Quite soon you are above the trees and the view south to Corris and the Tarren Mountains opens out. Continuing to climb you enter a broad valley and stay with the main path which turns west to head for the pointed outline of Craig Cwm Amarch.

The view ahead becomes more dramatic especially when you are able to see the waters of Llyn Cau which is located in a superb amphitheatre of crags and mountains. The path turns south to climb onto the ridge leading to the summit of Craig Cwm Amarch (791m.) with excellent views in all directions.

Reaching the summit cairn perched high above the waters of Cwm Cau you could be excused for not wanting to go any further. However Cadair Idris beckons although its shape is none too inspiring! Descend to the col on the northern side of Craig Cwm Amarch and follow the path through rocks to reach the summit area of Cadair Idris. Besides a trig column there are many other cairns and a small stone-built shelter. The views are superb especially to the north. 

Head east off the summit and follow the ridge path that heads to Mynydd Moel. Either continue to this summit and then follow the path south alongside the fence or take the descending path that forks right about 500 metres from the summit of Cadair Idris. Both routes provide problem free descents and join together to follow a path that is being improved by National Park staff. The descent offers good views of the outward route which it joins just above the tree-line. The fun has now been taken out of crossing the stream, with a bridge provided in 2008.

Suggested Maps

It is recommended you take a map with you when following a walk route. The preferred scale is 1:25000 used by the Explorer series.

	OS Explorer	1:25,000	Sheet OL23
	OS Landranger	1:50,000	Sheet 124

Note : If two maps are listed at the same scale then either (a) both are required for full coverage of the route or (b) the route is covered on both maps.

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