'Yr Wyddfa standard views but without the queues on my trek up this nearby peak'

-Credit: (Image: WalesOnline)
-Credit: (Image: WalesOnline)


Many of us are familiar with Yr Wyddfa, Tryfan, the Carneddau and the knife edge ridge of Crib Goch. Moel Eilio may not be as well-known but that comes with some major benefits.

It's a favourite among local walkers, some of whom embark on an early morning trek to its top to watch the sunrise over Eryri National Park. Although its elevation of 726m (2,382ft) and prominence of 259m (850ft) may not make it the tallest mountain in the national park, the view from the top is nonetheless rewarding.

From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the north-western part of the national park, including Yr Wyddfa, the Nantlle ridge, Y Glyderau, Moel Cynghorion, Foel Goch, and even further afield, such as the Menai Straits and Ynys Mon.

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The trek up Moel Eilio is moderately difficult, so a good pair of trainers or walking shoes is recommended. The path to the summit is relatively straightforward, but it does involve a steady uphill walk. Your journey can begin from Llanberis village itself. There are two car parks - Ger y Llyn Car Park or Dolbadarn Castle - but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as these areas can get very busy.

Both car parks are conveniently located near Llyn Padarn, right at the heart of this fascinating village. In July 2021, the slate landscape of north west Wales earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The best place to understand why is in the heart of Llanberis.

The trek up Moel Eilio is moderately difficult, so a good pair of trainers or walking shoes is recommended -Credit:Dmitry Djouce / Wikimedia Commons
The trek up Moel Eilio is moderately difficult, so a good pair of trainers or walking shoes is recommended -Credit:Dmitry Djouce / Wikimedia Commons

Here, near the lake, you can see the galleries of the former slate quarry, revealing the once massive scale of the industry that shaped this part of Wales. From Llanberis, an access road leads into the park, passing Snowdon Care Home on your left and eventually reaching three car parks. The first two are on the left, the last one on the right.

If the access road is in poor condition, it's advised to park in Llanberis and start from there. Upon reaching the third car park, go through the gate and take the path to the right of the farmhouse ahead. The trail goes through several gates as it heads north.

After one of these gates, you'll find an open grassy area with a wide path on the left that steadily winds uphill - this marks the beginning of your ascent. From this point, it's a steady climb, growing steeper as you near the summit of Moel Eilio. It's quite a hike to the top, but the views from there make it all worthwhile.

Once you've climbed the ladder stile, you're just a few steps away from the summit of Moel Eilio, where you can take a breather and soak in the stunning views. This peak is located about three miles from Yr Wyddfa, the highest summit in Wales.

The rock shelter on top of Moel Eilio -Credit:Trevor Littlewood / Wikimedia Commons
The rock shelter on top of Moel Eilio -Credit:Trevor Littlewood / Wikimedia Commons

On a clear day, you'll be able to see this famous mountain, along with other peaks like the Glyderau range, as well as landmarks such as Caernarfon, the Menai Straits, Anglesey, and even Pen Llyn - the arm of Wales. The summit of Moel Eilio is sandwiched between two smaller peaks, Foel Fron and Foel Goch. There's also a small lake, Llyn Dwythwch, nestled below the summit. At the top, you'll find a sturdy rock shelter, an ideal spot to admire the north-western Welsh landscape.

You can carry on along the ridge towards the lesser peaks of Foel Gron and Foel Goch. Despite a few ups and downs in elevation, the grassy terrain ensures a comfortable journey. Magnificent views over the nearby Nantlle Ridge are your constant companion.

From Foel Goch, start your descent along a northeast path into the Maesgwm Valley. The initial part is steep and lacks a clear path, but it's not long before you find a well-trodden bridleway that guides you across a series of stunning rivers back to your starting point in Llanberis.

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