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The excursion to Cwm Idwal in Eryri (Snowdonia) will focus on two specific periods of geological history: the Ordovician (c.450 million years ago) when the rocks of Eryri (Snowdonia) were formed, and the Quaternary which included the last Ice Age (peaking c.18,000 years ago) when the dominant features of the landscape were established.  In the Ordovician and the Quaternary, north Wales experienced extreme environmental trauma: violent volcanic activity and deep glaciations, respectively, and this is dramatically displayed in the rocks and landscape. Cwm Idwal has played a key role in developing our understanding of both periods and has attracted the attention of important scientists, including Charles Darwin who visited the cwm twice (in 1831 and 1842). 

The excursion will take around 3 hours. It is a pleasant walk over rough ground (no climbing or scrambling) but participants should be suitably equipped (tough footwear, warm clothes, waterproofs) regardless of the weather forecast.  

This walk is suitable for children. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult and supervised at all times. Children must be capable of walking the distance and be appropriately dressed.