BRIAN Holmes led his “A” group across fields from Dolgellau to Llyn Gwernan before making the steady climb past Llyn Gafr to Llyn y Gadair.

They followed a westerly path under the cliff face of Cadair Idris mountain to join up with the pony path back down to the valley.

Passing through a wood and crossing moorland they entered the valley through which the Gwynant stream flows.

They joined a path over Dolgledr before dropping down through forestry land to Penmaenpool and back along the Mawddach Trail to Dolgellau, having covered 13.5 miles and 3200 feet of ascent.

Barbara Penlington started her “B” group walk from Penmaenpool and headed towards Barmouth on the Mawddach Trail and followed it alongside the Mawddach estuary to reach the River Gwynant.

They headed inland and climbed to an upland valley passing between the Roman fort of Pared y Cefn hir and Cadair Idris to reach Cregennan Lake.

They also used the Pony Path beneath Cadair Idris to return to Dolgellau via Llyn Gwernan having completed 11 miles and 2000 feet of ascent.

Judy Cross and her “C” group started their walk from Arthog and climbed through the woods alongside the River Arthog.

They crossed sheep pastures to Cregennan Lake and over moorland before descending to pick up the Mawddach Trail back to Dolgellau having completed 9 miles and 1,200ft of ascent.

David Eyes’ “D” group proceeded through Dlogellau westwards to reach Brynadda then on to Derwas before turning north to Penmaenpool toll bridge and using the old railway line to return to Dollgellau, a walk of six miles.

Despite the showery day, everyone enjoyed great views and were rewarded with great beers after the splendid walks.

Thanks to all the leaders.

Alan Milligan