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Pen yr Helgi Du
Helgi.JPG
Pen yr Helgi Du from the Craig yr Ysfa ridge
Highest point
Elevation 833 m (2,733 ft)
Prominence 85 m (279 ft)
Listing Hewitt, Nuttall
Naming
English translation Peak of the black hunting-dog
Language of name Welsh
Geography
Location Conwy, United Kingdom
Parent range Snowdonia
OS grid SH698630
Topo map OS Landranger 115

Pen yr Helgi Du is a cool mountain peak in Snowdonia, North Wales. It's part of the Carneddau mountain range. This mountain is known for its interesting name and the amazing views it offers. It stands tall at 833 meters (about 2,733 feet) above sea level.

Its name, "Pen yr Helgi Du," comes from the Welsh words for "Head" or "Hill of the Black Hound." Imagine a big, black hunting dog! It's one of those places with a name that makes you wonder about its history.

Where is Pen yr Helgi Du?

Pen yr Helgi Du is located in the eastern part of the Carneddau mountains. This range is a big part of Snowdonia National Park. It's found in the Conwy area of Wales.

The mountain sits on the southeastern side of Carnedd Llewelyn. Carnedd Llewelyn is one of the highest mountains in Wales. Pen yr Helgi Du is connected to it by a special ridge.

Nearby Peaks and Valleys

If you look east from Pen yr Helgi Du, you'll see another mountain. It has an even more exciting name: Pen Llithrig y Wrach. This means "the slippery peak of the witch."

To the east, you can also drop down into a valley called Cwm Eigiau. To the south, you'll find the Ffynnon Llugwy reservoir. This is a large lake that holds water.

Exploring the Mountain

Hiking on Pen yr Helgi Du offers an exciting adventure. The path from Carnedd Llewelyn to Pen yr Helgi Du is quite famous. It goes over a narrow ridge called Bwlch Eryl Farchog.

This ridge is sometimes called a "knife-edge" because it's so thin. It runs over the cliffs of Craig Yr Ysfa. It's a thrilling part of the walk for experienced hikers.

What to See

From the top of Pen yr Helgi Du, you can see incredible landscapes. You'll spot other mountains, deep valleys, and sparkling lakes. The views stretch across the beautiful Snowdonia National Park.

It's a great place to experience the wild beauty of Wales. The air is fresh, and the quietness is amazing.

Nature and Wildlife

The Carneddau mountains, including Pen yr Helgi Du, are home to many types of wildlife. You might see some special animals and plants here.

Wild Welsh ponies often roam freely across the hills. These ponies are a famous sight in Snowdonia. They are hardy and can live in the mountain environment.

Plants and Animals

Look out for different kinds of birds flying overhead. You might spot buzzards or ravens. These birds soar high above the peaks.

The plant life here is also unique. You'll find tough grasses and small, hardy plants. They are able to survive the strong winds and cold weather on the mountain.

Safety on the Mountain

Mountains like Pen yr Helgi Du are beautiful but can also be challenging. It's important to be safe if you ever visit.

Always go with an adult who knows the area. Make sure you have the right gear, like warm clothes and waterproofs. The weather can change very quickly in the mountains.

Be Prepared

Always carry a map and a compass, or a GPS device. Know how to use them! It's also a good idea to bring plenty of food and water.

Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. This way, if anything happens, people will know where to look. Enjoy the adventure, but always put safety first!

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