Waterfalls around Arthog are located in North Wales, offering tranquil escapes amidst lush landscapes and ancient woodlands. The area is situated on the southern shore of the Mawddach Estuary, providing diverse terrain from riverside paths to mountain lakes. This region is known for its peaceful natural retreats and rich local history, including tales of Llys Bradwen court. The cascades vary in size and accessibility, providing a range of experiences for visitors.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Beautiful view along the paths to reach the upper falls with a few flooded caves/mining tunnels along the route
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A set of double falls, upper and lower. Both are quite tricky to photograph, the upper falls being the more precarious as you have to look over an edge to see the full drop. The lower falls are easier as you can get a low Point of View and hence get the flow of the water past you. These falls are only a few hundred yards up a well marked and obvious path, large car park on the main road at the bottom of the roadway.
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I started the opposite way of the route, going to the summit of Y Garn the shortest way. It was better. Starting the long way around is too tidings even going down. Be prepared to get lost without Komoot and the path they show (it’s like a compass) because the paths are hardly visible in places. There is an old gold mine worth passing by. The views from Y Garn are well worth all the sweat.
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The reserve at Coed Ganllwyd includes a steep, wooded gorge with tall waterfalls. The main attraction for many is the spectacular Black Falls of Rhaeadr Ddu on the Afon Gamlan. The forest is part of a wider Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is part of the Coedydd Derw a Safleoedd Ystlumod Meirion/Merionnydd Oak Woods and Bat Sites Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The wet climate that nourishes the falls also creates the humid conditions in the gorge, making it the richest place for mosses in northwestern Europe. The rocks and tree trunks are decorated with the green and gray growth of these simple plants. The trees largely escaped felling during two world wars and are an excellent example of the ancient oak forest of this part of Wales. (VisitMidWales)
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Rhaeadr Du (Black Falls in English) is a 20 meter waterfall that plunges over 2 steps onto the fast flowing Afon Gamlan as it passes through the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve at the spectacular Coed-y-Brenin Forest or Forest of the Kings . At the waterfall, large stone steps lead to a kind of viewing platform that offers beautiful views of the falls. Visitors are advised to exercise caution as the area can be very slippery and dangerous in wet weather. (Snowdonia guide)
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Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls in English) is a beautiful waterfall of 20 meters that falls over 2 steps. The name Black Falls is derived from the black stone over which the waterfall falls. From Ganllwyd it is a short walk through the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve, at the Coed-y-Brenin Forest, to the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall in the River Afon Gamlan.
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Nant Gwernol (Welsh for 'alder stream') is a beautiful cascading rivulet. There are a few trails here that explore the small waterfalls and the sumptuous surrounding woodland. The valley has a rich slate mining heritage too. During its heyday, the Bryn Eglwys quarry here employed around 300 men.
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One of the most impressive is Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls, which cascades over 60 feet (18 meters) and is nestled in ancient woodland. Another notable spot is the dramatic Pistyll Cain and Rhaeadr Mawddach in Coed y Brenin forest, especially after heavy rainfall.
Yes, the trail to Pistyll Cain and Rhaeadr Mawddach in Coed y Brenin forest is mostly on a forest road with no steps or stiles, making it suitable for pushchairs and mobility scooters. Additionally, the Waterfall Near Abergynolwyn is described as family-friendly and easily reached from the village.
The area around Arthog's waterfalls is rich in natural beauty. You'll find ancient broadleaved woodlands, open countryside, and the tranquil Mawddach Estuary. The Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve, home to Rhaeadr Ddu, is particularly noted for its steep, wooded gorge and being one of the richest sites for mosses and liverworts in North West Europe.
Yes, Nant Gwernol Waterfalls is located in an area with a rich slate mining heritage, including the Bryn Eglwys quarry. The region also has local folklore, such as tales of Llys Bradwen court and the giant Idris of Cader Idris, adding cultural depth to your visit. An audio trail is available at Pistyll Cain and Rhaeadr Mawddach to learn about the history of the Tyddyn Gwladys Gunpowder Works.
Many waterfalls, like Rhaeadr Ddu, change character with the seasons, often appearing more spectacular after heavy rain. Winter can offer clearer views of some cascades when foliage is sparse. Generally, after periods of rainfall will ensure the waterfalls are at their most powerful.
Beyond enjoying the waterfalls, the area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including circular walks that combine waterfalls with lakes and riverside paths. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous gravel biking and mountain biking routes. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Arthog, MTB Trails around Arthog, and Waterfall hikes around Arthog guides.
Yes, many waterfalls are integrated into walking routes. For instance, a circular walk of about 2 miles leads to Rhaeadr Ddu, allowing you to stroll alongside the River Gamlan. The Arthog Waterfalls themselves are a highlight on routes like the Arthog to Cregennan Lakes circular walk. You can find more hiking options in the Waterfall hikes around Arthog guide.
It's advisable to wear suitable walking shoes or boots, as paths can be gravel or slate and become slippery when wet, especially near waterfalls like Upper Dolgoch Waterfall. Waterproof clothing is also recommended, particularly during wetter periods, to stay comfortable.
The Arthog Waterfalls are a series of enchanting cascades nestled on the southern shore of the Mawddach Estuary. They are set in a tranquil environment where woodlands meet open fields, offering a peaceful natural retreat. The Afon Arthog descends through a ravine, featuring smaller falls and pools within what is described as a 'Celtic rainforest'.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil escapes and scenic walks offered by the waterfalls. The powerful visual spectacle of cascades like Rhaeadr Ddu, especially after rain, is a highlight. Many also enjoy combining the natural beauty with exploring the rich local history and the diverse terrain from riverside paths to mountain lakes.
The Upper Dolgoch Waterfall offers an accessible experience, though the path consists of gravel and slate which can be slippery when wet. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear. There are also some flooded caves/mining tunnels along the route to discover.
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Arthog:
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