Chapter 3 Geological notes on popular walks

A large number of footpaths around the Harlech dome are used by many of the visitors who come here every year. On all of them there is something of geological interest, but some give access to particular geological features, such as old mines, or allow the examination of stratigraphical variations of sections covered by the specific excursions detailed above. Nine of these are described below. Some can be used as substitutes for excursions given in the previous section, and others are complementary. Specifically, the Roman Steps offers an opportunity to examine the Rhinog Formation; the Barmouth to Hafotty mines walk can substitute for Excursion 2; someone wishing to examine in detail the Gamlan Formation can find much of interest on the Dolgefeiliau to Gwynfynydd walk; the Panorama Walk can be used as an extension to Excursion 2 to examine the Mawddach Group; the Ffestiniog Flags Formation is magnificently exposed on Precipice Walk, and Torrent Walk offers a complete section through an outlier of the Rhobell Volcanic Group.

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