BSC2019: Carneddau High-Level Circular Walk (Saturday 09:15)
19 people attending
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A big 14km yomp around the highest peaks of the Carneddau range, taking in Carnedd Llewelyn at 1064m, and Carnedd Dafydd at 1044. The hike starts and finishes near Llyn Ogwen, and we will need drivers to transport everyone to the start/finish point.
From the rugby club, we will drive to a large lay-by near the campsite at Pont Wern-gof (near Llyn Ogwyn), grid ref 674605, from where we will gradually ascend the southern spur of Y Braich to gain the summit of Pen yr Helgi Du. This is where the fun begins as we descend steeply into the saddle of Bwlch Eryl Farchog, and scramble up the other side to regain the ridge, leading us to the summit of Carnedd Llewelyn at 1064m. We then follow the crest of the broad ridge around the head of a magnificent corrie with great views north towards the Menai Strait and Anglesey. We re-ascend to gain the summit of Carnedd Dafydd at 1044m, a peak which gives great views back to the Glyders and Snowdon. We follow the ridge to Pen yr Ole Wen, overlooking Nant Ffrancon, and follow the rocky ridge east down into Cwn Lloer, from where we have a lovely descent back to our starting point.
You'll need to be experienced in long days out in the hills for this one; it's a very energetic day out which is suitable for those with the right kit and excellent levels of fitness.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
You will need to bring plenty of food and drink for the day. It's an energetic day out amongst the highest peaks of the area with a lot of height gain, so lots to keep you going (there will be three main breaks for food during the day), and plenty of water; it is a 14km walk over steep ground which is thirsty work. Obviously you'll need to be kitted out for all eventualities weather-wise, please see the kit list.