Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX traces an 8.2 km out-and-back from Cwm Idwal Visitor Centre to the 947 m summit of Y Garn. It gains 725 m and has a GPX-derived walking-time estimate of 2 hours 51 minutes.
The route follows the signed approach to Llyn Idwal, then climbs the steep, rough mountain path beside Twll Du (Devil’s Kitchen) to Llyn y Cwn before taking Y Garn’s south path to the summit. The normal walking line does not enter the dark gully itself.
Expect stone steps, wet and uneven rock, loose scree and exposed upland conditions. Carry the GPX and a paper map and compass, allow extra time for stops or poor weather, and turn back if conditions exceed your experience.
The headwall of Cwm Idwal is known as Twll Du in Welsh.
National Trust
Route Waypoints
Follow the signed stone path from the visitor centre to Llyn Idwal, then stay on the GPX line around the shore towards the headwall of Cwm Idwal.
Take the steep, rough walking path beside the dark chasm of Twll Du. Do not enter or try to climb the direct gully: that is not the walking route.
Continue carefully up the rocky constructed path. Wet stone can be slippery, especially on the descent; stay on the GPX line as the gradient eases above the headwall.
From Llyn y Cwn, turn onto Y Garn’s south path and climb north over steep, increasingly loose ground towards the summit.
Reach Y Garn’s 947 m summit, then retrace the same GPX line to Cwm Idwal Visitor Centre. Take particular care descending the loose summit path and the wet steps beside Twll Du; the full return route is 8.2 km.
Essential Tips
The hillwalking route climbs the rough path beside Devil’s Kitchen. The direct gully is not part of this walk and can require technical climbing skills and equipment.
Cloud can remove the obvious visual landmarks above Cwm Idwal. Carry the GPX plus OS Explorer OL17, a compass and the skills to use them; check the mountain forecast before starting.
Expect wet stone steps beside Twll Du and loose scree on Y Garn’s south path. Wear footwear with reliable grip and allow more time for the descent.
Parking at Cwm Idwal is limited and fills early. Arrive early or use the T10/Bws Ogwen service where practical; do not obstruct the A5 or access points.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Y Garn route via Devil’s Kitchen?
The GPX measures 8.2 km with 725 m of ascent. Its walking-time estimate is 2 hours 51 minutes, but allow longer for breaks, navigation, weather and the careful descent.
Is the Devil’s Kitchen section a scramble?
The normal hillwalking route uses the steep, rough path beside Twll Du and does not enter the direct gully. Wet steps can require care or a steadying hand; the gully itself is not part of this walk and can require technical climbing skills.
Where does the walk start, and is parking available?
Start at Cwm Idwal Visitor Centre beside the A5 at Ogwen, grid reference SH 649 603. Parking is limited and fills early, so arrive early or consider the T10/Bws Ogwen service.