Drosgl
Drosgl: A Quiet Peak on the Edge of the Carneddau
Drosgl is one of the lesser-visited peaks in the northern Carneddau, standing at 758 metres. It might not boast the height of its more famous neighbours, but what it offers is solitude, wild moorland character, and sweeping views out towards Anglesey and the Irish Sea. With a Bronze Age burial cairn on the summit and wide-ranging vistas, Drosgl is ideal for hikers seeking a quiet, contemplative climb off the beaten track.
Windswept Ridges and Ancient History
Located west of Foel-fras, Drosgl is a grassy dome that rises gently from the surrounding uplands. It forms part of the extended Carneddau ridge but is often bypassed, making it perfect for those in search of peace and a touch of Snowdonia’s ancient past. Its summit cairn is thought to be a burial site over 3,000 years old, a reminder that these hills have been important to people for millennia.
Snowdon’s varied routes mean there’s something for everyone, from leisurely walkers to seasoned hikers. Whether you’re taking the popular Llanberis Path or tackling the exhilarating Crib Goch ridge, each ascent is rewarding in its own way. Reaching the summit is not just about the view; it’s about the journey, the effort, and the stories you’ll tell after.
© Brad Carr
Walks & Hikes Around Drosgl
While Drosgl isn’t a technical climb, its remote position means any route here feels like a real adventure. Here are some of the best ways to reach it:
Book a Guided Hike on Drosgl
Drosgl via Bethesda and Cwm Caseg
- 7.8 mi
- 5 hrs - 6 hrs
A scenic route through Cwm Caseg, ascending the gentler northern slopes of Drosgl with panoramic views across the Menai Strait.
Pyg Track
- 9.5 mi
- 6 hrs - 7 hrs
Include Drosgl in a longer ridge walk from Aber, linking it with Foel Fras and Drum for a day full of summits and big views.
Circular Route from Gerlan
- 6.2 mi
- 4 hrs - 5 hrs
Start from the village of Gerlan and loop through the Carneddau foothills to reach Drosgl, returning via grassy ridges and quarry paths.
Foel Fras & Drosgl Loop from Aber Falls
- 10.5 mi
- 6 hrs - 7 hrs
A longer circuit beginning at Aber Falls, climbing steeply to Foel Fras and continuing along the undulating ridge to Drosgl.
Drosgl Short Ascent from Gyrn Wigau
- 4 mi
- 2.5 hrs - 3 hrs
The quickest approach, great for a quieter half-day outing with sea views and a sense of isolation on the summit.
What to Know Before You Go
Drosgl’s grassy slopes can be deceptively steep, and paths are often faint or boggy. Navigation skills are essential, especially in poor weather. Bring waterproofs, good boots, and a map and compass, this is a wild part of Snowdonia where conditions can change quickly. The summit cairn offers no shelter, so come prepared.
Why We Love Drosgl
There’s something powerful about being on a mountain where few others tread. The wide-open feel of Drosgl, its ancient cairn, and the backdrop of both sea and peak make it a special place to wander. It’s not about adrenaline here, it’s about connection, calm, and seeing Snowdonia from a different perspective.
How to Get to Drosgl
Drosgl can be approached from Bethesda (postcode: LL57 3UQ) or Aber Falls (Abergwyngregyn, LL33 0LP). Gerlan and Cwm Caseg are the most common starting points for walking routes. For public transport, buses run from Bangor to Bethesda and Abergwyngregyn, but check timetables in advance, as services can be limited.
If you’re travelling by public transport, the nearest train station is in Bangor, from where you can catch a bus to Llanberis. Sherpa buses also link the main trailheads, including Pen-y-Pass and Snowdon Ranger.
A Bit of Drosgl History
The Bronze Age summit cairn is the defining feature of Drosgl. It’s believed to be an ancient burial site, linking the mountain to centuries of human history in the region. The surrounding area has long been used by shepherds and quarrymen, with traces of past industry visible in the valleys below.
Keep exploring
Drosgl is one of Snowdonia’s quieter summits, but there’s so much more to discover in the Carneddau. Looking for high ridges, historic paths, and long days in the hills? Explore more unforgettable peaks below.