Dysynni
Access Officer: Vacant - Contact
National Access Development Officer
Ashley Charlwood
c/o Canolfan Tryweryn, Frongoch, Bala LL2 3 7NU
Tel. 01341 422692 Mobile 07817 761125 Email:
Cwmbychan@aol.com
Nearby Rivers: West Coast and Machynlleth
| Map: | 124 Dolgellau & surrounding area |
| Grade: | II |
| Length: | 12 km |
| Access: | on B4405 above Abergynolwyn |
| Notes: | A beautiful touring run; no portages |
| Quality: |  |
A beautiful touring river on crystal clear water below the heights of Cader.
Abergynolwyn to the old Bryncrug road bridge
12 km grade II
East of Abergynolwyn, parking can be made a discreet distance from the cemetery. A stile allows access on the river just above a tiny weir step. GR683074. Fast, clear, easy water leads down to below the village. Below this the happy canoeists enter the grade II Gamallt gorge. In flood it becomes more dangerous simply because of the water setting up in trees and bushes. Best at off-flood levels it is excellent for intermediates or, when lower, beginners. This gorge actually gives open, and a lot easier, access and you may wish to start your trip here GR674072.
There is a sharp south west turn towards the sea just after the confluence with the Afon Cadair. Below the following road bridge the river flattens out apart from three small weirs, all of which are easily shot, though in high water the third one forms a deceptively strong stopper. The water becomes tidal from here on to the sea. Overall the river is excellent for expeditions and touring.
Egress on the right at the old Bryncrug bridge GR599039. Alternatively, it is possible to continue downstream to a small tidal rapid below the Broadwater - incidentally the site of the only slalom I have ever attempted. As with any ebbing river don’t stray too far or risk getting washed out to sea!
The Tidal Dysynni
Tidal Distance 2.5 km
Although the tidal section is short, there is a large open area 'Broadwater' which is regionally important for canoeing. No access is available at the tidal limit, but permissive access is obtainable elsewhere.