Cwm Eigiau Horseshoe - A Classic Eryri Hike
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The Eigiau Horseshoe is one of the classic mountain walks in Eryri (Snowdonia), comprising ridges, narrow arêtes, and high mountain tops with vast vistas of the Carneddau range: It is a less visited part of the national park, but is all the more special and glorious for it.
Our route starts from a remote car park located at the end of a winding single track road which makes its way up from the small village of Tal-y-Bont. From there we head out and up to complete a wide loop taking in some of the big mountains of the Carneddau before returning to our starting point.
Although this is a mountain walk and not a graded scramble there are still a couple sections where you will need to use your hands on the rock to make progress up and down.
This is a BIG mountain day and you will need a good level of mountain fitness, a head for heights and to be experienced in mountain walking. We will be using tracks and footpaths, as well as going ‘off path’ with some very steep sections of grass and rock.
Distance to be covered is 17km with 1132 meters of ascent, which should take us between 7-8 hours.
Here is the link of the OS Map route:
All the images are by Andrew Hewlett and permission is given for their use.
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What to bring
Standard kit list for a day in the mountains as below
Water: Bring around two litres.
Head torch: Useful for walking back at dusk
Medicines: Any you carry as standard, e.g. if you have hay fever, diabetes, etc.
Day rucksack: Typically 30 plus litres, as they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: Waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking. There will be muddy sections. Trainers are NOT suitable.
Socks: Proper walking socks to help keep your feet dry and prevent blisters
Layered clothing: So you can 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 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 quickly and on warm days, shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: Essential when hiking, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry quickly
Waterproof Trousers: Essential, even if the forecast is for no rain
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof, and bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat: Stay warm in cold weather or for protection against the sun
We will conduct a quick kit check before we set off to ensure everyone is suitably equipped for a day in the mountains!!
Food & drink
Packed lunch, snacks and fluids. I flask of something hot is a good idea.