About Moel Hebog

Moel Hebog towers above the charming village of Beddgelert and offers one of the finest views of Snowdonia. The mountain is an excellent alternative to the busier Snowdon massif with far fewer crowds.

History & Background

The name means 'hill of the hawk' in Welsh. The mountain was used by Owain Glyndŵr as a hiding place during his uprising against English rule in the early 15th century.

Height & Prominence of Moel Hebog

Moel Hebog stands at 782 metres (2566 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 622 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Moel Hebog is part of the Hebog Range. The OS grid reference is SH 565469, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.

Moel Hebog carries the classifications of Hewitt, Nuttall, Marilyn.

Location & Nearest Towns

Moel Hebog is located in Wales, Gwynedd, within Snowdonia National Park. It sits in the Hebog area. The nearest towns and villages include Beddgelert (1 mile), Glaslyn, Snowdon, and others, where you can find accommodation, pubs, and supplies before or after your walk.

For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Snowdonia National Park authority.

Interesting Facts

  • Name means 'hill of the hawk' in Welsh
  • Owain Glyndŵr reportedly hid in a cave on the mountain
  • Superb views over the Glaslyn estuary and Cardigan Bay
  • Often much quieter than nearby Snowdon
  • Part of a popular circuit with Moel yr Ogof and Moel Lefn

Safety Tips

Weather

Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.

Equipment

Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.

Route Planning

Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.

Emergency: 999 / 112

Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.

On the Mountain: Walking Moel Hebog

Moel Hebog is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 782m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.

After your walk, the nearest village — Beddgelert (1 mile) — is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.

Nearby Dining

  • Glaslyn Ices, Beddgelert
  • Tanronnen Inn
  • Llew Coch, Beddgelert

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Moel Hebog one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?

Yes, Moel Hebog is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 782m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.

What difficulty level is Moel Hebog?

Moel Hebog has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.

When is the best time to climb Moel Hebog?

The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.

Why Visit Moel Hebog?

Moel Hebog stands at 782m (2566ft) in Wales, Gwynedd. Classified as a Hewitt and Nuttall and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.

Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.

Nearby Peaks to Explore

Looking beyond Moel Hebog? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.