Horseshoe Pass, Mountain pass in Denbighshire, Wales.

Horseshoe Pass is a mountain pass in Denbighshire, Wales, where the A542 road curves through the valley in a shape that gives it its name. The road runs between Llantysilio Mountain and Cyrn-y-Brain, reaching its highest point at 417 meters above sea level.

The pass was created in 1811 when a turnpike road was built through the mountains of northeastern Wales. Before that, the area had few usable routes, and the new road opened up connections to the wider region.

The Ponderosa Cafe at the top of the pass is a well-known stop for cyclists, motorcyclists, and drivers passing through the hills. It functions as a gathering point where people share the experience of the road, making it a regular part of the journey for many.

The road can close in winter due to snow or landslides, so it is worth checking conditions before setting off. Sheep roam freely on the road year-round, so drive slowly and stay alert at all times.

The road's curve is so pronounced that it can be clearly seen from above, making the pass one of the few in Wales where the shape itself is the defining feature of the view. This geometry also means that drivers can watch other vehicles travel the same road far below them as they climb.

• Elevation above the sea: 417 m
• GPS coordinates: 53.01350,-3.21620
• Latest update: March 3, 2026 08:21