Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park
Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park
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Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park
05:09
10.5km
850m
Hiking
The Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path offers a challenging hike, covering 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2776 feet (846 metres). You can expect to spend around 5 hours and 8 minutes on this difficult route. It begins with a steep climb through the wooded gorge of Nant Cadair, where you will see impressive waterfalls. The path then opens up, circling the dramatic glacial lake of Llyn Cau, nestled beneath towering cliffs. As you ascend towards the summit, Penygadair, you'll get glimpses of the peak and eventually be rewarded with panoramic views across southern Snowdonia and the coast.
This difficult route requires a good level of fitness due to its consistent steepness. While the path is generally easy to follow, some sections are very steep and can be tricky, with loose rocks underfoot. Be prepared for a demanding hike, and note that navigation skills are essential for certain parts of the trail. Always check local conditions before you go.
The Minffordd path is celebrated as one of the most picturesque routes up Cadair Idris, offering diverse landscapes from ancient woodlands to expansive mountain vistas. Cadair Idris, meaning "Idris's Chair," is steeped in Welsh mythology; legends say anyone spending a night on the peak will wake up a poet or a "madman." This trail also provides a less crowded experience compared to other peaks in northern Snowdonia, making its challenging ascent even more rewarding.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.37 km
Llyn Cau
Highlight • Viewpoint
Like Snowdon's Glaslyn, legend tells of a terrifying serpent, the Afanc, in the depths of the water. It's easy to imagine serpents, dragons and giants in a landscape such as this, which is probably why Cadair Idris is so rich in myths and legends.
Tip by
4.21 km
View of Llyn Cau from Craig Cwm Amarch
Highlight • Viewpoint
The summit is an exceptional viewpoint, with Penygadair to the north, the cwm below and the gentle green of the Tarren Hills to the south.
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5.31 km
Penygadair summit, Cadair Idris
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
7.15 km
Mynydd Moel summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
10.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.37 km
1.77 km
249 m
100 m
Surfaces
8.02 km
2.25 km
125 m
100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (860 m)
Lowest point (100 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
13°C
6°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
Superb hike up Cadair Idris via the Minffordd Path to the lovely Llyn Cau. We then followed the ridge to the main summit and took in Mynydd Moel too. Glorious mountain.
Cadair Idris (chair of Idris) is the 2nd highest mountain in Wales. We did not have the best weather, at least no rain, but the summits were in the clouds. The views at summit must be wonderful! In case of cloudy weather without view, I would skip the second summit, it is not very spectacular. But nevertheless, a very nice tour and the lake views are also beautiful.
Stone steps the whole way up and down. Hard on knees, most amazing views
Solo hike at Grace pace with lots of snack stops and taking in the view. Ive been wanting to do this walk for so long so I made a last minute decision to do it with amazing weather conditions. Id highly recommend this walk I had amazing views and perfect conditions... was one of my faviyrites routes yet 😍 mixed terrain and hardly saw anyone felt like I had the place to myself!
A lovely circular route! Not easy but worth it especially on a good view day! A stop at the lake for a snack before the second steep ascent of the day is always welcome. Following the well trodden route there are some mega views - not to mention the stories and legends that swirl about the mountain much like the clouds often present. As the highest mountain of the area it is quite the memorable trip that always seems to be veiled in mysteriousness and magic. A favourite of ours for sure! We do offer this route as a guided event complete with story telling on the way round, myths, legends and maybe truths! Get in touch with us at www.summit-seekers.co.uk
Definitely go for a wild swim on the way up and on the way back down, cool off in the creek
If you want to miss the busy paths of snowdon then this is a good one to climb.. Hard climb starting off with what seems endless steps through a fairy woodland ... after a little gentle walk up to the lake the route takes takes you up sand up over a stunning ridge and round to Cadair.. views are amazing all round.. well worth taking a look at .. car park at base of path £6 . All day.. and they now take card payment. Really recommend this one....
The Minffordd Path is one of the classic paths to the summit ("pen") of the second highest mountain in Wales, Cadair Idris. Despite many warnings, it is easy for experienced hikers to walk, but of course you have to climb the height and for long stretches you have to watch where you are stepping with every step. And the weather should be good, but I cannot say that it is stormy or rainy! On the way up in the lower quarter and downhill over an even longer stretch, stone steps have been laid, which makes it even easier. It is worth the effort, as my photos probably say.