Upper Cynfal

This canyon is at risk of being dammed

Submit an objection before 20 September!

Sport Canyon

View North Wales Gorge Users Agreement

Grade: 4 C R II / V4 A4 II ★★★

Summary

An impressive, deep multi pitch canyon with good access, difficult escapes and quality features throughout.

Canyon Descent:

120m

Highest Drop:

50m

Canyon Length:

600m

Minimum Ropes:

1X 60m

Flood Risk:

Extreme

Access Type:

Public

Rock Type:

Diorite

Catchment:

10.1km2

Water Level Indicator

View Topographic Map

Duration: in, down and out:

IN: 15 mins DOWN: 3hrs OUT: 45 mins

Anchors

mixed

Notes

A serious trip, with little escape options. This canyon reacts rapidly to precipitation, localised storms (on the moors) can raise levels very quickly. Care is needed as overuse/ abuse will likely result in access issues and anchors removal by landowner. Some loose rock is present.

Description

Approach by Car: Park at 52.959451916426, -3.868726695803331 Approach by foot: From the car you can see the water level indicator site, check level then follow the road towards the canyon until you reach the gate on the left, go through the gate and head straight towards the river where it begins to become enclosed. Canyon entry: Enter the canyon where the river starts to drop. Canyon descent: A quality descent with technical features which are difficult to come by in other locations. Some delicate mosses are present, use appropriate techniques to manage this. See topo map for more information. Exit: The last section of bedrock gorge walking eventually comes to an end at the fence on TR. Escapes: Some possible escapes in the upper section of the canyon however they would be very difficult to execute. the lower half of the canyon has a few easier escapes. First Decent: (Unknown)

View Route

A8 descent into shallow pool

Descending A5

Looking back at A9

Setting up a guided rap from A4 to A5

The difficult descent of A7, Best done as a guided rap.

Setting up for the technical A3 descent

Moderate flow - Sol Armer

This Canyon is Guided

Before entering this canyon please call the operator(s) below to prevent queuing. If you would like to be guided through this canyon get in contact with the recommended operator(s) below.

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES WALES

Have You Descended This Canyon Recently?

If so we would love to hear from you in the comment section below! Let the whole community know more about this canyon, Information such as time taken to: approach, descend and exit are extremely helpful, as well as any new hazards you may have come across whilst canyoning at this location. If any information on this page is missing, incorrect or out of date, please get in contact with us directly so we can rectify as soon as possible.

Disclaimer No responsibility or liability is taken for any harm, death or loss of property from using the information found on Canyon Log. Topo features, descriptions and notes may not be accurate and could be misleading. You must carry anchor building materials, be experienced and use your own judgement when canyoning. Flooding can completely change the layout, features and conditions. Insufficient experience may result in death.

Objection Template

(copy text below, add your details then submit)

[Your Name]
[Email Address]
[Date]

Application Ref: NP5/59/495C

Dear Aled Lloyd,

Subject: Objection to Proposed Dam in the Cynfal River.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed dam project in the Cynfal river, which threatens to significantly reduce the natural flow of water into one of Wales’ last unobstructed high quality canyons. This canyon is not only a remarkable natural treasure, but it is also a valued resource for the canyoning community, both locally and internationally.

The unique landscape and water flow of Cynfal river offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure and recreation, drawing visitors who contribute to the local economy and foster a deep appreciation for Wales’ natural heritage. By disrupting this delicate ecosystem, the dam would irreversibly harm the canyon’s environment, diminishing its value and depriving future generations of its beauty and recreational use.

I urge you to consider the long-term impact of this project and to explore alternative solutions that preserve both the ecological integrity of the Cynfal and the interests of the canyoning community. Protecting this natural resource is not only an environmental necessity but also a cultural responsibility.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I trust that you will take our concerns into serious consideration and make the right decision for the future of the Cynfal.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Optional: Your Title or Affiliation]

5 2 votes

Canyon Score

2 Comments

Newest

Oldest Most Voted

Inline Feedbacks

View all comments

Sol - Adventure Activities Wales

June 16, 2024 8:29 pm

Canyon Experience :

All anchors in good condition, no significant changes to pool depths this season so far. Clients loving it. The hydraulic on the first jump was a little sticky today but still a relatively low water level after yesterday’s rain.

Admin

Canyon Log Admin

January 24, 2022 11:32 pm

A group of three descend Upper Cynfal on 24th Jan 22, All anchors in good shape, no hydraulics in action as flow was very low. the fixed rope on R3 has deteriorated and should no longer be relied upon. We all had a great time!