Y Garn

About Y Garn

Guarding the eastern approach to the celebrated Nantlle Ridge, this Nuttall offers a steep, grassy introduction to one of Eryri’s most dramatic traverses. It rises sharply from the Drws-y-coed pass, providing an immediate sense of exposure and a staggering perspective of the Snowdon Massif across the valley.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is Welsh, meaning 'The Cairn'. While the name is common across Wales, here it denotes the first significant stony high point encountered when traveling west from the village of Rhyd Ddu.
• •The ascent from the east is a famously relentless slog that gains over 400 metres in roughly a mile. It serves as the gatekeeper of the ridge; once the summit is reached, the terrain transitions from steep grass to the narrow, rocky edges that define the Nantlle range.
• •The summit offers a privileged look at the 'back' of Snowdon, specifically the Clogwyn Du'r Arddu cliffs and the South Ridge—views often missed by those sticking to the busier paths of the main massif.
• •Looking down into the valley of Cwm Pennant to the south, walkers can see the remains of the Prince of Wales slate quarry, a reminder of the industrial heritage that once occupied these now-quiet slopes.
• •Despite its respectable height and status as a Nuttall, it is frequently demoted to a mere 'starting point' by walkers more interested in the airy scrambles further along the ridge toward Trum y Ddysgl.