We’ve explored most of Snowdonia over the years, but this was the first time we ventured to Dinorwig Slate Quarry to see the hidden waterfall.

Starting from Dinorwig Bus Stop Car Park, we passed The Mills and went through the left-hand gate toward the main quarry. A herd of mountain goats greeted us, lounging on large slabs of slate. This spot is ideal to capture portraits of the mountain goats, as well as some nature shots of Elidir Fawr, the northernmost peak in the Glyderau range, standing at 924 meters.

Next, we climbed over the gate and made our way along the old quarry tracks. We passed staircases and loose slate, following a trail marked by copper iron rods. Eventually we took a left fork which led us into ‘California’ ~ the hidden waterfall.

The view of the hidden waterfall from inside the tunnel is incredible and atmospheric, though there’s a steep drop nearby, so we approached it slowly.

After some water therapy we chilled by the tunnel entrance, opened the Stanley flask and listened to the water echo through the tunnels whilst enjoying the stillness of the quarry. It felt quiet, secluded, and otherworldly.

On the way back, we spotted the mountain goats again, before heading into Llanberis for some food to finish the day.

A few words of caution ~ this is an abandoned quarry. Buildings, staircases, tunnels, and spoil heaps are all slowly decaying, and parts of the paths can be slippery or narrow. It’s wild and untended ~ explore carefully at your own risk.

~ Type of Walk: Unmarked quarry route with uneven, steep terrain.
~ Parking: Dinorwig Bus Stop Car Park (LL55 3ET).
~ Equipment: Hiking boots with good grip, torch/headlamp (for tunnels), waterproofs, snacks, and Stanley flask.
~ Best Time to Visit: Spring to early autumn when waterfalls are flowing and light hits the slate beautifully. Avoid in heavy rain or fog.
~ Company: Family, Mountain Goats, Waterfalls, Slate Walls.

Coordinates: 53.1221° N, 4.1089° W
Photography & Words: Scott Woolley. Leica Q ~ October 2025.