Clocaenog Forest

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Clocaenog Forest is in West Denbighshire/Conwy, Wales.

It is 40 square miles (100 km²) in extent, mostly coniferous softwoods under the control of the Forestry Commission. It was planted in 1905 on what was mostly moorland and many hill farms. It is a highland region, mostly above 350 metres. It experienced a severe winter in 1946/47 with over 150cm of lying snow on flat ground recorded at Clawddnewydd (a nearby village), and there was another hard winter in 1962/63. It is also the last mainland stronghold of red squirrels in Wales.

The forest is great for walking, with lots of clear paths. There are high points which rise above the tree level, affording views of Snowdonia and Arenig Fawr to the west, the Berwyn Range to the south, the Clwydian Range to the east, and the Denbigh moors to the north. The highest point in the forest, easily reached on foot with clear paths, is 'The Mast' at Craig Bron Bannog. Wildlife includes many birds, including the crossbill which are adapted well to the conifers. There is also an enclosed area where wild horses (Przewalski's Horses) can be viewed. In addition, there are several examples of ancient remains, including at least one stone circle and the 'credstone', an ancient worship site.

Streams run through the forest; Llyn Brenig lies on the western flank, and there is a spectacular waterfall - one of Wales' best kept secrets.

A recent development in the forest is the construction in 2005 of a wind farm with 25 wind turbines. Many more wind turbines are planned.

[edit] External links

• grid reference SJ0153
• Forestry Commission page on Przewalski's Horses in Clocaenog
• http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/4674207.stm (bbc news article about the expansion of wind farms in Wales, including in the Clocaenog Forest)