Top 7 Waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy
Best waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy are found within a region known for its natural beauty, situated near Snowdonia National Park. This area features diverse landscapes, including woodlands, moorlands, and rivers. The waterfalls here offer varied experiences, from powerful cascades to serene woodland walks. Dyffryn Ardudwy provides access to several notable natural monuments and scenic viewpoints.
Best waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy
- The most popular waterfalls is Pistyll Cain Waterfall, a viewpoint that crashes 65 feet (20 m) down to a huge splash pool. It is located just below Pont Gwyn-fynydd and National Cycle Route 82 in Coed-y-Brenin forest.
- Another must-see spot is Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls, a natural monument comprising two waterfalls that drop over 60 feet (18 meters). These falls are known to change character with the seasons and are easily accessible within Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve.
- Visitors also love Pistyll Gain (Rhaeadr Mawddach) Waterfall, a river waterfall on the River Gain, a significant tributary of the River Mawddach. It is described as very beautiful to see, even from a distance.
- Dyffryn Ardudwy is known for its natural monument, viewpoint, and river waterfalls. The area offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, often nestled within forests or along significant rivers.
- The waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and over 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls
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Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve
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Pistyll Cain Waterfall
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Below the falls is the confluence of Rivers Gain and Mawddach and another falls, Rhaeadr Mawddach is just up the latter river.
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Pistyll Gain (Rhaeadr Mawddach) Waterfall
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Arthog Waterfalls
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Tips from the Community
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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An enchanting series of waterfalls plummeting through lush woodland on either side. The climb up to the top is steep but worth it!
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The half-way point on the Minotaur mountain biking route at Coed y Brenin.
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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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Waterfall on the Mawddach River (45 km long). This waterfall is known as "Rhaeadr Mawddach".
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy are most popular with visitors?
Among the most popular are Pistyll Cain Waterfall, known for its impressive 65-foot plunge into a large splash pool, and Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls, a natural monument with two cascades dropping over 60 feet. Both are highly appreciated by the komoot community.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls to visit near Dyffryn Ardudwy?
Yes, Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls are considered family-friendly. Located within Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve, they offer easily accessible, waymarked routes of varying lengths, making them suitable for families.
What kind of walks can I expect when visiting waterfalls in the area?
You'll find a variety of walks. For instance, Rhaeadr Ddu offers waymarked routes through woodland, while visiting Pistyll Gwyn provides a 'gloriously lonesome walk' through moorland and woodland. Nantcol Waterfalls also feature a range of woodland and river walks, from short strolls to longer rambles.
What natural features can I see besides the waterfalls?
The area around Dyffryn Ardudwy is rich in natural beauty. Near Rhaeadr Ddu, you can explore the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve, an ancient oak woodland known for its mosses and liverworts. Near Pistyll Cain, you'll find the Coed-y-Brenin forest and the confluence of the Rivers Gain and Mawddach. Pistyll Gwyn is set amidst moorland and woodland with views of the Rhinog mountain range.
Are there any historical sites near the waterfalls?
When visiting Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls), you can explore the surrounding woodland and discover the remains of the Cefn Coch gold mine, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy?
The waterfalls, particularly Rhaeadr Ddu, are known to change character with the seasons, offering a different spectacle throughout the year. They are beautiful in all seasons, but after rainfall, the cascades are often at their most powerful and impressive.
Can I find parking easily near the waterfalls?
Yes, for Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls), a car park is conveniently located right on the A470, making access straightforward. Nantcol Waterfalls also have a dedicated car park for visitors.
What outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?
The area around Dyffryn Ardudwy offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including options near Pistyll Gwyn for longer circuits. There are also gravel biking routes and running trails available throughout the region.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near the waterfalls?
Yes, Pistyll Cain Waterfall is noted as a good spot for taking a break, with the possibility to swim in the river beneath the waterfall. Similarly, Pistyll Gain (Rhaeadr Mawddach) Waterfall is also mentioned as a place for swimming.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Dyffryn Ardudwy?
Visitors frequently highlight the natural beauty and tranquility. They appreciate the powerful cascades, the serene woodland walks, and the diverse character of the falls that changes with the seasons. The opportunity for a 'gloriously lonesome walk' and the chance to explore ancient woodlands are also highly valued.
Are there any less-known or 'hidden' waterfalls in the area?
While not entirely hidden, Pistyll Gwyn Waterfall offers a more secluded experience. It's located within Graigddu Woods, providing a sense of wild tranquility away from more crowded areas, making for a 'gloriously lonesome walk'.
What should I wear when visiting the waterfalls?
Given the natural terrain and the potential for wet conditions, especially near the falls, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Areas around waterfalls can be very slippery, so caution is always recommended.
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