The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Tanygrisiau Reservior
4.5
(1597)
13,361
hikers
161
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Tanygrisiau Reservoir are set within Snowdonia National Park, offering a blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage. The landscape is characterized by dramatic mountainous backdrops, including the Moelwyn mountains, and features picturesque waterside paths. Hikers will find remnants of disused slate quarries and views of waterfalls along the Afon Cwmorthin. The reservoir itself, also known as Llyn Ystradau, provides a serene focal point for many routes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Tanygrisiau Reservior
- Theโฆ
Last updated: July 12, 2026
4.6
(68)
370
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(26)
57
hikers
4.98km
01:20
50m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
58
hikers
16.6km
05:45
830m
830m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(3)
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
19
hikers
13.3km
04:04
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cwmorthin Slate Quarry is an impressive area, a magical hanging industrial valley above Tan y Grisiau that highlights Wales' industrial heritage with its massive works and ruins. It was in operation between 1810 and 1939 and has five different underground levels which were serviced with extensive trackways and machinery. Many of the surface buildings, such as the slate mills, can still be seen. If you are a photographer, this is the place to come in the early summer light or the cold winter mist.
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Rainbows on mountains tend to be a mixed blessing as they are a pretty sure sign that you are about to get wet! However from the photographers point of view they can also signal some great light, with sun mixed in with dark moody clouds. This was the view from near the summit of Cnicht - otherwise sometimes called the Welsh Matterhorn due to its pointy appearance from the village of Croesor. To the right of the picture is Moel Hebog which rises steeply above the pictuesque village of Beddgelert.
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The long abandoned Barracks and Mill buildings of Rhosydd Quarry in the Moelwyn mountains of North Wales on a changeable day last September. A break in the heavy cloud allowed a burst of sunlight through that lit up the shiny slate rubble to make it look a bit like water. The dark buildings stood out against the lower slopes of Foel Ddu.
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The flat topped summit can be difficult in mist, hard to find the very top, and also to navigate off to find the route to Moelwyn Fach - you have to double back, and then descend to the right.
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The spartan barracks at Rhosydd, a hard place to live and work, not far from the summit of a mountain.
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A fine rocky and in places narrow ridge, and you will often have it all to yourself!
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Car park gets full up top so park sensibly park close to next car gives more space for others. Donโt park in front of gate as this is used by farmer Go Below and mountain/cave rescue. More parking available at bottom of hill.
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Slate was mined here above and below ground from about 1830. The remote location proved difficult, and a series of financial troubles hampered the quarry. It shut during WW1 and reopened afterwards until finally closing in 1948. At it's peak, this was the second-largest underground slate mine in North Wales. Today you can explore the spoil and some of the old machinery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Tanygrisiau Reservoir?
There are over 160 hiking routes in the Tanygrisiau Reservoir area, with more than 60 of them rated as easy, making them suitable for families. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from gentle lakeside strolls to more adventurous paths through the historic landscape.
Are there any easy, circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the Tanygrisiau Reservoir Loop Trail is an excellent choice for families. It's a relatively flat 3.1-mile (5.0 km) path that encircles the reservoir, taking approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. It offers picturesque views and is considered easy, making it ideal for a leisurely family outing.
What natural features and historical landmarks can families discover along the trails?
Families can explore a landscape rich in both natural beauty and industrial heritage. You'll find picturesque waterside paths, views of waterfalls along the Afon Cwmorthin, and dramatic mountainous backdrops. The area is also dotted with remnants of the historic slate-quarrying industry, such as disused slate quarries and old structures like the Cwmorthin Slate Mill and Rhosydd Chapel Ruins. The Ffestiniog Railway also passes through the area, adding to the historical charm.
Are the hiking trails around Tanygrisiau Reservoir dog-friendly?
Many of the trails around Tanygrisiau Reservoir are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas, and to clean up after them. There's even a dog-friendly lakeside cafe near Tanygrisiau station for refreshments.
Where can we park when visiting Tanygrisiau Reservoir for a family hike?
Parking is generally available near the Tanygrisiau Reservoir area. For routes like the Tanygrisiau Reservoir Loop Trail, you can often find parking conveniently located close to the starting points, such as near the Tanygrisiau railway station.
What is a good beginner family hike that offers a mix of nature and history?
For a blend of nature and history, consider the Cwmorthin Slate Mill โ Rhosydd Chapel Ruins loop from Blaenau Ffestiniog. This moderate 6.5-mile (10.5 km) trail takes you through the region's industrial heritage, showcasing disused slate quarries and old structures, alongside beautiful natural scenery. While moderate, it's a rewarding experience for families looking for a bit more adventure.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Tanygrisiau Reservoir?
The Tanygrisiau Reservoir area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic mountainous backdrops, the serene waters of the reservoir, and the fascinating industrial heritage visible along the trails. The variety of paths catering to different fitness levels is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any cafes or places to get refreshments near the family trails?
Yes, there is a convenient lakeside cafe located beside the Tanygrisiau railway station. It's a dog-friendly spot, perfect for families to stop for refreshments before or after their hike around the reservoir.
Can we reach Tanygrisiau Reservoir by public transport?
Yes, Tanygrisiau railway station is on the historic Ffestiniog Railway. This makes it possible to reach the area by train, and a walk around the reservoir can be easily completed from the station, offering a unique and scenic way to start your family adventure.
What is the best time of year for family walks around Tanygrisiau Reservoir?
The Tanygrisiau Reservoir area can be enjoyed year-round. The Moelwyn mountains offer some protection from northerly gales, contributing to relatively mild weather. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colours, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the dramatic landscape has a unique charm, though appropriate gear for potentially wet or cold conditions is always recommended.
Are there any trails that offer expansive views for families?
For families seeking more expansive views and a bit more of a challenge, the Moelwyn Mawr from Tan-y-grisiau loop offers significant ascents that reward hikers with stunning panoramas over the surrounding area. This is a moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) path, suitable for families with older children or those used to more strenuous hikes.
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