This walk takes a minimum of 45 minutes. It is a difficult walk with 675 steep uneven natural stone steps.
Along the Nature Trail you will follow in the footsteps of the monks of the past and enjoy views of the spectacular 300 ft waterfalls deep within the Rheidol gorge.
The start of this walk consists of a view of the 3 bridges one on top of the other. You then follow the path through the ancient oak woodland deep down into the Rheidol gorge. At the halfway down point there is a viewing gazebo from where you can enjoy views of the 300ft Mynach waterfalls.
Leading onwards and further down the gorge the path and steps get steeper. The last run of downward steps consists of ‘Jacobs’ Ladder’ where there is a flight of 100 steps all in one run. Once you have descended down Jacobs’ Ladder you will cross over the ‘humped bridge’. You are now halfway around the walk but will need to ascend back up the other side of the gorge. All the way up the steps there are views of the Mynach waterfalls and there are stopping places where you can rest and enjoy the view.
Is this walk suitable for me?
This is a difficult walk, with 675 steep uneven natural stone steps. A good level of mobility is required, so it may not be suitable for elderly people, young children, or someone with a disability.
Please remember that suitable footwear is essential.
CUSTOMER WARNING – Due to the geology of the Rheidol Gorge, the walks are not necessarily suitable for the elderly, disabled, asthmatic or for those who suffer from vertigo or heart conditions. The amount of steps makes it unsuitable for pushchairs or for carrying babies in a sling or back pack. If you are not used to physical exertion then this walk could be too strenuous for you. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please read our trip advisor reviews for customer comments.
An access statement is available on request at the entrance or read it directly from our website.
Dogs must be kept on leads at all times and are the owner’s risk and responsibility. Small dogs can be carried through the turnstiles, but if you have a large dog it is best to visit during the times when the Attendant is present.
Map of the Walks
Tap the numbers on the map for more information about each walk feature. This map is also in the Guidebook, which contains much more information about each of the walk features.
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1: Begin your walk […]
2: Look out across the chasm […]
3: View across the chasm […]
4: Sessile oakwood […]
5: Approaching the Gazebo […]
6: The Gazebo […]
7: View of the Waterfalls […]
8: The Rheidol river […]
9: Half way around the walk […]
10: The Robber’s Cave […]
11: A large pothole […]
12: The return journey […]
13: This is a S.S.S.I […]
14: Use the telescope for free […]
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After seeing the three bridges built one on top of the other, begin your walk through the peaceful wooded gorge taking care as you descend down the rugged path into the gorge. After 10 minutes the steps become more uneven.
From here you look out across the chasm, described by George Borrow as a “profound hollow with all the appearance of an extinct volcano”.
A century ago, the woods would have been almost entirely sessile oak.
Sessile oakwood still covers much of the grounds through which the path runs today.
As the path curves down to the left, you will see the viewing Gazebo.
Stop and admire the waterfalls from the viewing Gazebo. A perfect stop for a drink and snack, and a photo too!
Here you will see a stunning view of the Gyfarllywd Falls, in the river Rheidol.
The Rheidol has its source in the Plynlimon mountains, a few miles from Devil’s bridge.
At the bottom you will be half way around the walk. Cross over the old circular bridge at the bottom of the waterfalls and begin your ascent up the other side admiring the waterfalls from close proximity.
Stop and rest at Robber’s Cave; an old hide out next to the Waterfalls and learn about it’s history. Continue further up the steps taking them at your own pace.
When the river is in full spate, the waterfall crashes down into a boiling cauldron here.
The start of the return journey.
The Nature Trail is within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (S.S.S.I) and is home to many types of mosses and lichens. It is also an excellent example of an ancient Sessile Oak woodland. A guide book indicating interesting aspects of the Nature Trail is on sale at the entrance kiosk when attendant is on duty.
Whilst catching your breath at the end of your walk, take time to use the Free Viewing Telescope. Enjoy a close up view of the Gyfarllwyd Falls on the Rheidol river, the surrounding woodland and distant Cambrian Mountains or a Red Kite soaring high above. The exit is opposite the Hafod Hotel.
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