SH6457 : Feral Goat close to the summit of Glyder Fawr

Glyder Fawr

1,001m Elevation
642m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH6457 : Feral Goat close to the summit of Glyder Fawr

Eric Jones Photo source

Explore routes near Glyder Fawr

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track

12.3 km ~5h 30m Hard

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Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy from LLanuwchllyn

17.5 km ~9h Moderate

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Cadair Idris - Pony Path

9 km ~3h Hard

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Pen-y-Pass to Glyder Fawr via Miner's Track and Devil's Kitchen

Starting at Pen-y-Pass, this popular route follows the Miner's Track towards Llyn Llydaw before ascending steeply to Glyder Fawr via the Devil's Kitchen. This route offers stunning views of Snowdon and surrounding peaks, with a thrilling rocky ascent.

9.5 km ~4.5 hours Challenging

Ogwen Valley to Glyder Fawr via Cwm Idwal and the Devil's Kitchen

Begin at Ogwen Cottage and follow the trail through Cwm Idwal to Llyn Idwal. Ascend through the dramatic Devil's Kitchen to the ridge, then continue to Glyder Fawr for sweeping views of the Glyderau range.

7.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Tryfan and Glyder Fawr Traverse

A classic, challenging ridge walk that starts with an ascent of Tryfan via its south ridge. Cross the rugged Glyderau plateau, passing Glyder Fach with its famous Cantilever Stone, before summiting Glyder Fawr.

11 km ~6 hours Very Challenging

Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach Circular via Pen-y-Gwryd

Starting at Pen-y-Gwryd, this circular route ascends Glyder Fach first, allowing you to explore the Cantilever Stone. Continue across the ridge to Glyder Fawr before descending back to the car park.

10 km ~5.5 hours Challenging

Capel Curig to Glyder Fawr via the North-East Ridge

A lesser-known but rewarding route starting from Capel Curig. Follow trails to the north-east ridge of Glyder Fawr, offering a quieter ascent with breathtaking views of the Carneddau and Snowdon ranges.

13 km ~6.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Furth Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,001m

3,284 ft

Prominence

642m

Coordinates

53.1015, -4.0292

SH642579

OS Map

115

Explorer: OL17W

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and several large boulders, perfect for a picnic or to just sit and take in the marvellous views.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and steep with sections of grass and heather particularly on the approach paths.

Glyder Fawr is primarily composed of granite, which was formed during the Precambrian era. The unique boulders at the summit, known as the 'glyders', have been shaped by glacial action, giving them their striking appearance.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks of Snowdonia, including Tryfan and the Carneddau range. The dramatic cliffs above Llyn Idwal are also a sight to behold.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Glyder' means 'a heap of stones' in Welsh, which perfectly describes the boulder-strewn landscapes.

Historical Significance

As one of the prominent peaks in Snowdonia, Glyder Fawr has historical significance in Welsh culture, often featured in local folklore and myths.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Idwal Cottage Car Park, with a small charge for parking during peak times. This is the main access point for several routes.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is in the village of Bethesda, about 4 miles away, with limited services. A taxi can be hired from there to reach the car park.

Nearby Facilities

There is a small café at the Idwal Cottage, and public toilets are available at the car park.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks and steep drops in places. Be cautious in wet conditions as paths can become slippery.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Glyder Fawr?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Glyder Fawr through the maps

Are there other walkers around Glyder Fawr?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Glyder Fawr search or of course create your own walk for Glyder Fawr

Can I organise a walk to Glyder Fawr?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Glyder Fawr.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Glyder Fawr?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Glyder Fawr here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SH642579

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

Y Garn

947m

Tryfan

918m

Y Lliwedd

898m

Carnedd Dafydd

1,044m

Elidir Fawr

924m
See 5 more nearby hills