Moel Ysgyfarnogod Walk

6 miles (9.6 km)

This walk climbs to Moel Ysgyfarnogod in the Rhinogydd range of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), the northernmost of the Rhinog peaks.
The route offers a strong sense of remoteness and wide views from the summit, including across Llyn Trawsfynydd and the surrounding upland landscape....
Starting from a small parking area on a narrow road east of Eisingrug, a bridleway leads onto Taith Ardudwy, an ancient route linking Barmouth with Llandecwyn. The path winds steadily through open hills before passing the quiet waters of Llyn Eiddew Bach, where the terrain begins to feel more rugged and exposed.
The walk continues past the remains of the Llyn Dywarchen manganese mines, where old workings and tracks reflect the area’s industrial past. From here a mine track leads towards Llyn Ddu, before a steep grassy climb takes you onto the summit ridge and up to the top of Moel Ysgyfarnogod. To the north-west of the summit, on an area of moorland and rocky outcrops, lies Bryn Cader Faner, an ancient stone circle. It is one of the finest examples of a Bronze Age cairn in Britain, and has rocky standing stones along its circumference.
The descent heads down towards Llyn Dywarchen, with no clear path on the steep slopes, requiring careful navigation. From the lake the route follows the outward path back across the hills and along Taith Ardudwy, completing a demanding but rewarding circuit through one of Snowdonia’s quieter mountain areas.
You can continue your walking by heading south to climb Rhinog Fawr and visit Llyn Cwm Bychan.