This is one of the toughest "half marathon" routes in the UK, and possibly the most awe-inspiring. The route takes you through ancient woodland, past stunning glacial lakes, historic trails, and challenging mountainous terrain, including the summit of one of Snowdonia's most iconic mountains, Cadair Idris.
Distance: 13.1 miles
Height gain: 1100m
Terrain: 65% trail, 25% mountainous, and 10% tarmac
Full details: www.cadairx.co.uk NB: This is a mountain route with some challenging ascents and descents.
THE ROUTE The route will be route marked, but we recommend some basic navigation skills, and downloading the GPX file below.
ROUTE DESCRIPTION Starting from the Tyn-Y-Cornel Hotel the route follows a country track along the north side of the stunning glacial ribbon lake, Tal Y Llyn, before entering the Cadair Idris National Nature Reserve.
You will run through the tranquil woodland of Dol Idris and then up steeply through the wooded gorge. As you ascend out of the trees you will clasp glimpses of the stunning glacial lake Llyn Cau to your left. You will continue your ascent towards Mynydd Moel before traversing west and ascending to the summit of Cadair Idris, 893m.
The section between the 4km and 6km mark involves steep ascent. The most challenging underfoot terrain is just after the summit of Cadair Idris.
Once off the rocky terrain of the summit your descent will follow the established Pony Path before turning south west down towards Tyn Y Fach and Mary Jones' Chapel. You will then follow a beautiful section of the Mary Jones walk before traversing North East through tranquil woodland tracks and back to Tal Y Llyn and the Tyn Y Cornel Hotel for some well earned rest.
GPX 2022 By traversing Mynydd Moel we've shaved a few 100 metres off the previous route to get it bang on 13.1 miles.
MANDATORY KIT Your usual hill running kit must include:
Waterproof jacket
Insulation layer (eg micro-fleece, down gilet)
Personal medication if required (eg. asthma pump)
Water bottle/bladder & race-cup
Suitable bag for carrying kit
Whistle
Fully charged mobile phone
A wristwatch
Suitable footwear
Map/GPS + Compass
Hat/buff
In the event of severe mountain weather we'll use our Plan B route. It will still be a memorable route of the same distance, but won't go higher than 400m. Participants will be notified in advance.