Afon Colwyn facts for kids
The Afon Colwyn (which means River Colwyn in English) is a small but lively river in Gwynedd, located in north-west Wales. It is a "tributary" of the Afon Glaslyn, which means it flows into the Glaslyn river.
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Where the Afon Colwyn Begins
The Afon Colwyn starts its journey high up on the south-western side of Snowdon. Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales. This starting point is called the river's "source."
The River's Journey
From its source, the river first flows west. It crosses the A4085 road, which connects Caernarfon to Beddgelert. This crossing happens at a spot called Pont Cae'r Gors, just south of Rhyd Ddu.
After this, the Afon Colwyn turns south. It flows alongside the A4085 road all the way to the village of Beddgelert. Along its path, two smaller rivers join it. These are the Afon Cwm-du and the Afon Meillionen.
Joining the Glaslyn
When the Afon Colwyn reaches Beddgelert, it meets and joins the Afon Glaslyn. This meeting point is called a "confluence." From there, the combined rivers flow south. They eventually reach Tremadog Bay, which is close to the town of Porthmadog.
What Makes the Colwyn Special
The Afon Colwyn is known for being a short river. It also flows very quickly. Usually, it carries less water than the larger Glaslyn river.
However, the amount of water in the Colwyn can change fast. When there is heavy rain, the river's water levels can rise very quickly. This makes it exciting for certain activities.
Fun on the River
The Afon Colwyn is a popular spot for people who enjoy outdoor activities.
- Whitewater Kayaking: Because it's fast-flowing, the river is a favorite for whitewater kayakers. These are people who paddle small boats called kayaks through fast-moving water. You can find more information about kayaking on the Colwyn here.
- Angling: The river is also popular with anglers. Anglers are people who enjoy fishing with a rod and line.
