Mynydd Mawr Summit

Rising on the very edge of Snowdonia National Park and sitting opposite Moel Eilio, Mynydd Mawr is a welcome sight if you want a non-technical but exhilarating hike. Whichever way you look at it, this 2,290-foot (698 m) peak is impressive with fantastically craggy sides and splendid cwms cut away from its north and north eastern sides. 

Not far from Snowdon, hiking this quiet but mesmerising mountain allows you to enjoy a hearty climb, view Snowdon’s looming peak to the east and cool off in the stunning Llyn Cwellyn reservoir at the end. 

Soaring skies and winding paths

You can choose from several options to begin your hike up Mynydd Mawr, one of the most popular being from Rhyd Ddu. Parking is seldom at capacity here, despite it being a starting point to reach the Snowdon Ranger Path and toilets can be found in the station car park. 

Hiking up from Rhyd Ddu sees you walking through part of Beddgelert Forest with its conifer trees and views of Llyn Cwellyn. Hopping a sheep fence, you can continue hiking up past the fluffy creatures to the towering Foel Rudd, a starter peak to whet the whistle. 

Hiking above the jagged Craig y Bera provides utterly spectacular views before ascending to Mynydd Mawr’s rubble-strewn summit. West, Caernarfon Bay glimmers and east, Snowdon stands tall. 

In good weather, you can hike this friendly mountain throughout the year. If snow and ice have set in though, only ascend with the right equipment and experience. 

You’ll find campsites scattered along the valley with more accommodation in Beddgelert and Caernarfon. A pub in Rhyd Ddu offers post-hike refreshments if you can’t wait.