Llyn y Gader, Rhyd Ddu, Eryri

SUMMARY:

Best at / for: calm winter mornings.

Best avoided: busy holiday season!

Parking: parking with close access to the location.

Access: easy walking on flat, well maintained path.

Notes: good hiking / wild camping opportunities nearby.

Details:

A beautiful location in one of my favourite valleys …

Parking up close to the lake is very handy, and puts you across the valley from the southern slopes of Snowdon, with a good line of sight to the summit. This is a good angle for dramatic winter shots when the crisp daylight from over your shoulder catches the snow-tipped peaks.

In warmer months the lake offers a good variety of subjects and compositions. You’re right under the northeastern end of the Nantlle Ridge and with the right light and skies the scenery can be very dramatic.

You can also gain some height quite easily above the lake on the flank of the ridge. So shots of projected light on Snowdon and Yr Aran can be taken from interesting angles.