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Mynydd Mawr from Rhyd-Ddu Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 6.0 miles / 9.8 km

Ascent - 1900 feet / 576 metres

Grade - moderate

Start - OS grid reference SH571526
Lat 53.051502 + Long -4.1333901
Postcode LL54 6TN (approx. location only)

Mynydd Mawr stands in an isolated position to the northwest of Snowdon. The western and southern flanks of this striking mountain were a source of quality slate and the scars of this industry remain. Mynydd Mawr has two notable features of interest to walkers. The impressive line of crags named Craig y Bera will seen from above during this Snowdonia (Eryri) walk as will be the other feature, the large internal bowl of Cwm Planwydd.

This is a straightforward ascent of a Welsh mountain with the descent route simply following the line of ascent. The start is the pay and display car park by the Welsh Highland Railway Station at Rhyd-Ddu (grid ref. SH571526). Exit the car park and walk along the A4085 north towards Caernarfon. At the road junction in the centre of the village, turn left onto the B4418 to Nantlle. After approximately 100 metres at the end of the houses on the right hand side take the road leading into Baddgelert Forest. On quiet days there is also the chance of parking here (grid ref. SH568529) but do make sure you do not block access.

Continue along this forestry track passing a barrier. The track gains a little height with improving views across the valley to the northern summits of the Snowdon Massif. After about a kilometre the track crosses a footpath (grid ref. SH562540). The narrow path climbs through an area where the conifers have been felled to reach a fence at a stile. Cross the stile, turn right and follow the fence uphill gaining height quite quickly. Another stile provides access to open country and you can see the path climbing steadily towards the minor summit of Foel Rudd. As you climb this section you also get a good view along the crags of Craig Bera, which offer some challenging climbs to climbers.

Reaching the minor rocky summit of Foel Rudd, you begin to appreciate the massive Cwm Planwydd, which until now has been hidden from view. The gradient eases as you walk around the southern lip of this bowl with the crags of Craig Bera now on your immediate right. The path turns north and after a final section of ascent you reach the summit with its cairn and wind-shelter. The view is unrestricted and includes the Isle of Anglesey, the Menai Straits, the hills of the Lleyn Peninsula, Snowdon and many of its satellites plus a grandstand view of the Nantlle Ridge across the valley to the south.

Once you have taken in the view, return to the start using the outward route. There are other possible return routes but these have not been researched in detail and if you have detailed knowledge of other descent routes then please let me know.

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