Cadair Idris & Welsh Peaks: Complete Hiking Guide

The Cadair Idris height is 893 metres (2,930 feet), making it the second-highest mountain in Wales after Snowdon. The height of Cadair Idris places it firmly in the Hewitt and Nuttall classifications, and it is also classified as a Marilyn due to its significant prominence. The alternative spelling "Cader Idris" is commonly seen — the Cader Idris height is the same 893 metres, as both names refer to the same mountain. The summit is known as Penygadair, and it sits at the northern edge of a long ridge.

Cadair Idris is part of the Cadair Idris massif, which includes several subsidiary peaks such as Mynydd Moel and Tyrrau Mawr. The mountain is composed largely of Ordovician volcanic rock, which gives it its distinctive rugged appearance. For a broader look at where Cadair Idris ranks among British peaks, see our UK mountain heights and top 10 lists.

There are several popular routes up Cadair Idris, each offering a different perspective on the mountain. The most common starting point is the Ty Nant car park on the northern side, which leads to the summit via the Pony Path. This route is approximately 6 kilometres each way and takes most walkers 3 to 5 hours round trip.

Alternative routes include the Minffordd Path from the south, which passes the beautiful Llyn Cau and climbs steeply up to the ridge. This is arguably the most scenic route and takes around 4 to 5 hours round trip. For a longer circuit, the Fox’s Path approaches from the east and can be combined with Mynydd Moel for a full ridge traverse.

While Cadair Idris is a Welsh peak, Cairn Gorm is a Scottish mountain in the Cairngorms range. The two are often compared because both are popular hiking destinations, but they differ significantly. Cairn Gorm stands at 1,245 metres — considerably higher than the Cadair Idris height of 893 metres. Cairn Gorm also has a funicular railway and ski infrastructure, while Cadair Idris remains a wild, unspoiled walking mountain. For hikers building a UK-wide itinerary, both peaks offer distinct but rewarding experiences.

If you are building a peaks map of Wales, Cadair Idris should feature prominently alongside Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), the Glyderau, and the Carneddau. A map of peaks across Snowdonia reveals a dense cluster of high mountains within a relatively compact area, making it possible to bag several summits in a single trip. The Ordnance Survey Explorer map OL23 (Cadair Idris and Llyn Tyfan) covers the mountain in detail.

For those planning a broader UK hiking adventure, our UK mountains overview and guide provides a comprehensive look at ranges across England, Scotland, and Wales, while our guide to famous UK mountains and the three highest peaks covers the national trio of Snowdon, Scafell Pike, and Ben Nevis.

The two main trailhead car parks for Cadair Idris are the Ty Nant car park (northern approach, postcode LL36 9TP) and the Minffordd car park near Tal-y-llyn (southern approach, postcode LL36 9AJ). Both are pay-and-display. The Ty Nant car park is more popular and fills quickly on weekends and bank holidays — arrive before 9am during peak season.

Public transport options are limited, but the Tywyn to Dolgellau bus service stops near the Minffordd start. Always check current timetables before relying on public transport.

Mountain rescue in the Cadair Idris area is provided by the South Snowdonia Search and Rescue Team. In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. The weather on Cadair Idris can change rapidly — the summit is often shrouded in cloud even when the valleys are clear. Carry a map, compass, waterproofs, and enough food and water for a full day. The summit area has steep drops on the western side near Penygadair; take care in low visibility.