The Rhinogydd of Snowdonia are the national park’s most wild peaks, characterised by hard, sedimentary rock, snagging heather and awkward terrain. Hikes to Rhinog Fawr take you to the most distinctive of these rough-and-ready mountains, an absolute delight if you love an expedition amongst a spectacular, challenging and secluded landscape. This is Snowdonia for the hardy aficionado.

A rough diamond at the heart of Snowdonia’s wildest range

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Rhinog National Nature Reserve

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Location: Llanbedr, Gwynedd, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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Tips

Trail Magazine

December 13, 2019

Hiking

This is the rough part of Snowdonia. Not ‘trolleys in the canal’ rough, but a craggy, vegetated, wild kind of rugged. Stick to the paths, such as the Roman Steps (actually a medieval packhorse route) for the easiest going, or head off the beaten track to tackle the heather and rocks for full-on adventure.

Samwise

April 2, 2019

Hiking

Great Summit Cairn.

Translated by

•

Clive G

September 27, 2025

Hiking

The Rhinogs are rightly recognised as being the roughest hills in Wales, so any ascent should bear that in mind. The easiest and clearest route is from the East, starting from the small car park at the end of the lane off the A470. This route is easy to follow and relatively easy to walk. The routes from the west include very difficult walking and few paths.

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Best routes near Rhinog Fawr Summit Cairn

4.5

(32)

167

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1. Rhinog Fawr and Bwlch Drws Ardudwy loop

9.80km

03:15

450m

Hike the moderate 6.1-mile Rhinog Fawr and Bwlch Drws Ardudwy loop, gaining 1479 feet through rugged Welsh wilderness.

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Moderate

5.0

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2. Rhinog Fawr ascent — Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

8.95km

03:04

460m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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3. Rhinog Fach to Y Lethr — Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

17.9km

07:41

1,460m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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Hard

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Informations

Elevation 770 m

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yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

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Today

Tuesday 10 March

9°C

4°C

89 %

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Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h

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Location: Llanbedr, Gwynedd, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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Rhinog Fawr Summit Cairn

1. Rhinog Fawr and Bwlch Drws Ardudwy loop

2. Rhinog Fawr ascent — Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

3. Rhinog Fach to Y Lethr — Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

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