Wanders in the Western Carneddau: Yr Elen & Carnedd Llewelyn
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Join OutdoorLads for a big day in the mountains as we complete a circuit of some of Eryri's tallest peaks, summitting six of the Carneddau's many peaks.
Points of interest on the route:
Yr Elen: At 962m, this is the Carneddau's least visited peak, being a diversion on most classic routes. Our route takes us directly over the summit, giving us a great panorama of the rest of the Carneddau ridge.
Carnedd Llywelyn : At 1065m, this is our tallest peak and the summit of the Carneddau range; which is the highest area of upland habitat in the British Isles outside of Scotland. Due to it's vastness, the mountains are home to a large number of rare upland species, such as Hen Harriers, Ravens, Peregrine Falcons and Dotterels.
Foel Grach: At 976m, our third summit means the scabby hill, due the shattered rocks strewn over the summit. The summit also has a well built refuge, which will be a great lunch spot should the weather turn.
Carnedd Gwenllian: At 925m, out fourth hill has an interesting etymology. It's name was recently changed to be named after Gwenllian of Wales, the only daughter of the legendary Prince Llywelyn, from whom Carnedd Llywelyn gets it's name.
Bera Bach: At 807m, this summit, our fifth, may be one of the most geologically interesting in the Carneddau, with rock stacks and shards shooting off in multiple directions. Scrambling to the top is good fun, provided the rocks are dry.
Drosgl: At 758m, our final summit may be the shortest, however may offer the most spectacular views. If the visibility is good we'll be able to see all along the North Wales coast and even as far as the Isle of Man.
The Carneddau Ponies: During the walk, we may come across the wild ponies that inhabit the mountains. The ponies have lived here for hundreds of years, surviving by feeding on the native upland plants. If we do see them, make sure not to approach too closely, as they are wild and shouldn't be frightened.
Other Information:
Sunday Walk: If you want to make a weekend of it, come and join the Sunday walk to Aber Falls. Aber Falls via The North Wales Pilgrim's Way | OutdoorLads
Dog Suitability:
Dogs are always welcome on my walks, though their behaviour and safety is their owner's responsibility. This includes cleaning up after them, controlling their behaviour around other animals or people, and assisting them over any stiles or streams we may cross.
New Members
Please feel free to sign up as your first OutdoorLads event. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to message me, or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
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Image/photo credits: All leader's own images - with permission for OutdoorLads to use and reuse


















What to bring
Water: bring plenty of water (~2 Litres)
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
Footware: ideally designed for hiking, sturdy trail runners are OK too.
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
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: ideally 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
Waterproofs: 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
Food & drink
Please bring lunch, snacks and plenty of water. As the weather may still be cold on the summits, you may want to bring a flask with a hot drink or soup too. After the walk, there'll be the opportunity to visit the local pub for refreshments. If you arrive early, Caffi Seren, where we're meeting, cooks up an excellent breakfast (though make sure you've finished it by 10:30).