Lôn Gwyrfai - Rhyd Ddu to Beddgelert

Afon Gwyrfai flows from Llyn y Gadair via Llyn Cwellyn and thence to the sea. Lôn Gwyrfai, the new multipurpose trail, starts in much the same place but runs the opposite way, down the valley to Beddgelert. For many years the abandoned track of the Welsh Highland Railway was the de facto option but for obvious reasons this is out of the question these days.

David Firth leading a Snowdonia Society walk

Its official opening on 29th October marked the end of an 11 year project costing £630,000 which was funded by the National Park and the European Regional Development Fund. If it’s 7.6 km in length, that’s £83 a metre. Is that a lot and will it be worth it? Someone pointed out that much of the path was already in existence therefore the true cost per metre is much more. Whatever the cost, I am sure it will be hugely popular, much more so than the conservative estimate of 5,000 users per year.

A footpath would have been much cheaper than the multipurpose trail that makes it usable by cyclists and horseriders. The top section, around Llyn y Gadair, is also suitable for mobility scooters, but further along the journey becomes difficult with steps and the route is steep in places.

Rain clouds ahead.

A lot of thought has gone into the design. I like the fencing on the causeway that arcs outwards to minimise potential injury to riders falling from their horses. I like the floating nature of the fence, suspended on tight wires like on railways. Either end of the causeway are handy slabs of slate to sit on? No, these are for mounting and dismounting your horse. A footbridge over a stream for the walkers with a ford alongside for the bikers and riders. Towards Beddgelert there are old-fashioned cast iron gates that have been re-purposed with spring loaded high handles.

Peter Rutherford - creator of the trail

At either end is a car park and a station for the Welsh Highland Railway making it a very manageable circular route, complete with bike hire at the Beddgelert end.

It’s new and looking good at the moment but will need tender loving care and this is where the Snowdonia Society will help. We are entering into an agreement whereby our volunteers will maintain the trail, ensuring the drains are clear and thereby prevent erosion. If you would like to join in and be part of the Lôn Gwyrfai maintenance team, please email info@snowdonia-society.org.uk