Cwmorthin Waterfall — Attraction in Ffestiniog

It's not a park or garden in any traditional sense even if it's in a National Park. It's not even a particularly spectacular waterfall though nice enough. However if you're visiting the waterfall you really should continue up the track leading up to Cwm Cwmorthin . The small river that tumbles down to Tanygrisiau on which the waterfall can be seen comes out of Llyn Cwmorthin which you will reach after a short uphill stretch. Here you enter the large open Cwm where the broad track crosses the river over a slate footbridge which continues along the left side of the lake into Cwmorthin. The industrial heritage can be seen all around in the derelict workings slate mining. Unlike other slate producing areas in which open quarrying was the norm here in the vicinity of Blaenau Ffestiniog the slate was taken from underground with huge caverns being excavated deep into the surrounding mountains. Despite the obvious scars Cwmorthin itself is for the greater part a tranquil and natural environment. An old derelict chapel and the remnants of quarry workers housing give evidence to the fact that this now quiet an peaceful area was once a busy populated community created by the need for labour in the industry that dominated this region giving huge wealth to the owners who built large houses and estates and enjoyed privelged lifestyles. The track through Cwmorthin skirts the lakeside. Alongside you can see the remains of a rail track once used to transport the slate down and link up with the Ffestiniog Railway. At the end of Cwmorthin the track starts to rise and there is a steady pull up to another area of abandoned slate works on a flat plateau. From here you can see the long sloping ridge that runs from the summit of Cnict on the right whilst venturing left would lead toward Moelwyn Mawr and Bach. Continuing ahead over the flat plateau brings you to the head of the valley that drops down to the village of Croesor and then on down to Llanfrothen and then to the coast at Porthmadog. There's plenty of interest to be discovered and the waterfall is merely...

Cwmorthin Waterfall is one of those hidden gems in North Wales that leaves a lasting impression. Nestled within the old slate mining valley near Blaenau Ffestiniog, the walk up to the falls is as rewarding as the view itself. The landscape around the area is dramatic and full of history, with remnants of abandoned slate mines scattered across the hillsides. This combination of rugged industrial heritage and natural beauty makes the experience truly unique. The waterfall itself is not massive, but it has a quiet charm. Cascading down the rocks into the stream below, it creates a peaceful spot where you can pause and enjoy the sound of rushing water. On a sunny day, the light reflecting off the water and rocks makes it especially photogenic. It’s also a great place for a picnic if you enjoy eating outdoors in scenic surroundings. The walk is not too difficult, though some paths can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Parking is available nearby, and the route is well worth the effort.

For anyone visiting Snowdonia, Cwmorthin Waterfall offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and tranquility – a spot that feels off the beaten track yet...

At first we weren't sure where these were, as there weren't any sign posts to indicate the location of the falls. However, with the help of ol' Google Maps, we managed to find the car park leading to them. I'd recommend getting there early though, as space can be VERY TIGHT up there. We managed to park up, but only just. Be mindful of the road leading up as well, as it can be VERY narrow in parts. You can either take the steeper path to the right, or the other path to the left (which is steep in parts, but offer incredibly scenic views of the landscape below!) On the way up, you can see the slope where the old cart would bring down, I believe, slate from the old mines above (the cable is still visible!) I have seen a few walk up through the hole at the top, but do not know where this leads to. You can walk up as far as you like, as the views are stunning regardless! I'm unsure if it loops around, but you can certainly make a day of it, take some sandwiches and head out until you're ready to return to the car. A lovely place to spend the day, but wear comfortable shoes/boots if you're going to be...