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Pistyll y Cain Waterfall

Waterfall

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Mountain, Valley

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Ian Medcalf via Geograph.org.uk

Pistyll y Cain is a waterfall in the Coed y Brenin forest near Ganllwyd in Gwynedd, where the Afon Gain drops around twenty metres over a terraced rock face just above its meeting with the larger Mawddach river. An iron footbridge stands right in front of the falls, and they are reached on a circula...

10

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

The Snowdonia Escape, Country Log Cabin, Moo Hoo Snowden Cabin

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
Coed y Brenin forest houses this impressive cascade within the Mawddach Valley floor. Hikers follow an old gold mining track through the dense woodland to reach the site.

What type of place is Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
Pistyll y Cain Waterfall is a waterfall within the Coed y Brenin forest in North Wales.

When is the best time to visit Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
Autumn rain supercharges the flow, creating a massive acoustic assault early in the morning. Spring through to autumn generally offers manageable trail conditions across the valley slopes.

What can you do at Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
Walking along the gravel paths allows you to admire the stepped cascades up close. Photography enthusiasts can capture magnificent angles from a nearby rocky outcrop downstream.

How long should I spend at Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
An hour provides enough time to see both local falls and enjoy a brief riverside picnic. Longer stays allow for a full circuit along the challenging forest tracks.

Where do I park at Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
A total of ten spaces are available nearby, providing eight day spaces and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Pistyll y Cain Waterfall, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Pistyll y Cain Waterfall?
The Snowdonia Escape, Country Log Cabin, and Moo Hoo Snowden Cabin provide three choices in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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