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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
116 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5-1h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd

Panorama on Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd hike in Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Measurement:

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Table of contents

This is a spectacular riverside walk in Snowdonia that follows the River Gamlan from Ganllwyd up to the wild Rhaeadr Ddu falls. The route will wind its way through the peaceful woodland before bringing you back to your starting point in the village.

Route Description for Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd

From the car park, cross the main road and turn left to follow the road towards the black corrugated iron village hall. Immediately after the village hall turn right following the sign for Rhaeadr Ddu. The track leads you uphill alongside the roaring waters of the River Gamlan. After heavy rain the river is particularly impressive- some compensation for a wet weekend in Wales!

As the track bends sharply to the right, 400 m up the hill, follow the waymarked footpath heading off into the woods towards the river and a small wooden footbridge. Cross the bridge and turn right to continue upstream. Shortly you will reach the spectacular Rhaeadr Ddu. Welsh for Black Falls these two beautiful waterfalls cascade just over 18 m.

After enjoying the falls continue upstream following the well-marked route which soon takes you away from the river and further into the woodland. After approximately 0.5 km you will pass through a kissing gate, turn left at the ‘T’ junction, signposted ‘P’ for parking. This track leads you gently downhill following a boundary wall.

Continue ahead as the track takes you gently downhill, at the crossroads continue straight ahead through a gate. Follow the path through two more gates before emerging back on to the main road. Turn left, past the village hall and back to the car park.

Want to find more amazing walks in Snowdonia? Check out the Pyg Track to Snowdon, Llyn Ogwen or the Moel Siabod walks.

Insider Hints for Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd

  • Good footwear is essential as footpaths are slippery in places.
  • Watch for the rock inscribed in Latin by the poet Thomas Grey alongside the footpath leading to the bridge crossing the River Gamlan.
  • The waterfalls are particularly impressive after heavy rainfall.

Getting to the Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd Trailhead

Follow the A470 to Ganllwyd, free car parking is available in the centre of the village opposite the village hall. Postcode: LL40 2TF.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    At trailhead

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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