Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Glyder Fawr from the Ogwen Valley by Cwm Idwal, Twll Du or the Devil's Kitchen, and Llyn y Cwn. It returns by the same route, covering 7.7 km with about 816 m of ascent. Allow 5 to 7 hours: the mileage is short, but the climb is steep, rocky and slow, particularly on the loose upper slope.
From Ogwen, follow the popular path into Cwm Idwal and around the eastern side of Llyn Idwal. At the head of the cwm, climb the stone-pitched route beside Twll Du. The path includes awkward rocky steps and a stream crossing that can become dangerous after heavy rain or in winter. Above the cleft, continue to Llyn y Cwn, then turn onto the very steep scree and stone path leading to Glyder Fawr. The summit plateau is a jumble of pale rocks, with the highest point at 1,001 m difficult to identify in cloud.
Return to Llyn y Cwn and descend through the Devil's Kitchen to Ogwen. This GPX does not continue to Glyder Fach, Tryfan or Y Garn. The route is often described as a walk, but hands are useful in places and the loose descent demands care. Avoid it when streams are in spate, carry a map and compass, and expect winter conditions well into spring.
Once over, the path gets noticeably steeper as you approach the Devil's Kitchen.
BBC Weatherman Walking
Route Waypoints
Start near the Ogwen visitor facilities and take the signed path for Cwm Idwal. Parking is tightly controlled, so use designated spaces or public transport.
Follow the surfaced path into the nature reserve. Stay on the built line to protect fragile vegetation.
Continue around the eastern side of the lake towards the dark cleft of Twll Du at the head of the cwm.
Cross the stream on the rocky path below the Devil's Kitchen. After heavy rain or during thaw, turn back if the crossing is unsafe.
Climb steep stone steps beside the cleft. Hands may be useful on short rocky sections, especially when descending.
Reach the small lake above the Devil's Kitchen and turn for Glyder Fawr. Note this key junction for the return.
Climb the loose scree and boulders to the rocky 1,001 m summit. Check the exact descent bearing before leaving.
Retrace the scree to Llyn y Cwn, descend Twll Du and follow Llyn Idwal back to Ogwen.
Essential Tips
Water below Twll Du can make the path treacherous. Do not jump or scramble around it if the normal crossing is flooded.
The climb from Llyn y Cwn is tiring and the descent is slower than expected. Keep space between walkers to avoid dislodging stones.
Glyder Fach, Tryfan and Y Garn require different lines. This GPX returns through the Devil's Kitchen.
Snow and ice linger on the shaded steps and plateau. Carry winter equipment and skills when conditions require them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Glyder Fawr from Ogwen?
Allow 5 to 7 hours for the return trip. The distance is only 8 km, but the steep, rocky terrain and loose scree make it much slower than a typical walk of that length.
Do I need scrambling experience for the Devil's Kitchen route?
Not technically, but hands are useful in places on the rocky steps. The route is often called a walk, but it's steep and awkward, especially on the loose descent, so you need to be comfortable on rough terrain.
Is the stream crossing below Twll Du dangerous?
It can be. After heavy rain or during thaw, the crossing can become unsafe and you should turn back rather than risk it. Don't try to jump or scramble around it if it's flooded.