Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Moel Hebog directly from Beddgelert through Cwm Cloch and returns the same way. It covers 6.9 km with about 739 m of ascent and usually takes 4 to 5½ hours. The path rises almost continuously from the village and becomes steep, eroded and rocky on the upper mountain.
Leave Beddgelert on the path towards Cwm Cloch and the foothills of Moel Hebog. After fields and lower tracks, turn onto the direct mountain path. It climbs steep grass and scree beneath the broad eastern face, with short rocky bands where hands may help. The upper slope eases onto the summit ridge before reaching the trig point at 783 m. In clear weather, views extend over Beddgelert, Yr Wyddfa and the Nantlle hills.
Return through Cwm Cloch by the same route. This GPX does not continue to Moel yr Ogof or Moel Lefn. The direct descent is loose and tiring, and mist makes the correct line towards Beddgelert difficult to identify among several ridges. Take a return bearing, keep to the worn path and avoid the route in ice unless properly equipped.
Moel Hebog rises directly above Beddgelert, and the short approach leaves most of the work for the mountain itself.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start from designated village parking and follow the signed path towards Cwm Cloch and Moel Hebog.
Leave the lanes for field paths, closing gates and respecting working farmland. Keep Moel Hebog ahead as the paths bend around Cwm Cloch.
Pass the lower cwm and locate the direct path turning onto Moel Hebog's eastern slopes.
Climb sustained rough grass and worn earth. Look back to fix the return line to Beddgelert.
Work through short rock steps and loose scree, using hands for balance where needed. Look back regularly so the correct descent line remains familiar.
The angle eases near the top. In cloud, follow a bearing rather than drifting towards Moel yr Ogof.
Reach the trig point at 783 m. Stop here and prepare for the same steep descent.
Retrace the rocky bands, field paths and village route to Beddgelert. The loose upper descent takes time, so do not rush to make up a late start.
Essential Tips
Loose scree and eroded grass make the return harder than the climb. Use a controlled pace and allow time.
The northern continuation is a different ridge route. This GPX returns directly to Beddgelert, so do not follow paths towards Moel yr Ogof in cloud.
Cloud can hide Cwm Cloch and pull walkers onto the wrong shoulder. Confirm the east-going descent before moving.
Beddgelert is busy and residential. Use designated car parks rather than lanes, verges or private spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Moel Hebog from Beddgelert?
It usually takes 4 to 5½ hours for the full route. The climb covers 7.1 km with 726 m of ascent, and the steep, loose descent takes longer than you might expect, so don't rush if you started late.
Is Moel Hebog suitable for beginners?
No, this is a strenuous route with very steep, rocky sections where you'll need to use your hands for balance. The descent is especially challenging due to loose scree and eroded paths, and navigation in mist is difficult.
Why is the descent from Moel Hebog so difficult?
The descent is harder than the climb because of loose scree and eroded grass that make footing tricky. In mist, it's also easy to drift onto the wrong ridge, so take a bearing from the summit and stick to the worn path.