Walk 2544 - printer friendly version

Rhinog Fach circular Walk

Author - Nick O'Brien

Length - 8.0 miles / 13 km

Ascent - 2200 feet / 667 metres

Grade - moderate

Start - OS grid reference SH684302
Lat 52.853164 + Long -3.9558129
Postcode LL41 4YE (approx. location only)

The Rhinog Mountains are clearly visible from the A470 Dolgellau to Trawsfynydd road and this route approaches these rugged peaks from the east. Travelling north from Dolgellau continue for about 2km past the forest centre and take a left turn (grid ref. 713306) down the minor road. Go through two gates and park immediately at the forest edge (grid ref. SH684302).

After parking follow the left track into the woods for 200 metres to where the track does a sharp left. Leave the track onto a path which brings you to a farm, Graigddu-isaf. The two Rhinog mountains are visible from here with Rhinog Fawr to the right and Rhinog Fach on the left. From the farm follow the track towards Rhinog Fach. This leads to a waymarked footpath which leads up between the two mountains.

After a gentle climb to Bwlch Drws-Ardudwy, which is marked by a large cairn, the path descends into a valley. Where it opens up to a level area look for a stile over a wall on your left (grid ref. 660280). Climb over the stile and follow a steep path through the heather to reach Llyn Cwmhosan a suitable place to pause and take in the view of Rhinog Fawr behind and the summit above.

Stay on this path for the steady climb up to Llyn Hywel with excellent views of Y Llethr and the Cambrian coast. Turn left or south around the lake across the scree and up to the wall where there are even more stunning views across the wild countryside. Go over the wall and follow a visible path north circling the mountain to reach a wall with a stile. Go over the stile and you will soon discover that the path doubles back to the summit of Rhinog Fach.

To descend retrace your steps back to the wall above the Llyn Hywel where you turn east and follow the path down past LLyn y Bi and head for the woods. On reaching the woods careful navigation will take you back to the start.

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