Y Garn

Y Garn

Y Garn Group Walks | Join a Walk

633m Elevation
21m Prominence
Wales Country

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Classifications

Nuttall Sub-Simm

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Elevation

633m

2,077 ft

Prominence

21m

Coordinates

53.0514, -4.1625

SH551526

OS Map

115

Explorer: OL17W 254

At the Summit

The summit is adorned with a prominent cairn and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky paths interspersed with some grassy sections and occasional scree.

Y Garn is primarily composed of rhyolitic tuffs and other volcanic rocks originating from the Ordovician period, giving it a rugged, striking appearance.

Views & Scenery

Incredible views of Llyn Idwal, the Glyderau mountain range, and the magical scenery of Snowdonia.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Y Garn means 'The Cairn' in Welsh, a nod to its prominent summit feature.

Historical Significance

It holds cultural significance as part of the landscape that has inspired poets and artists alike.

Popular Routes

Y Garn via Ogwen Valley (Devil’s Kitchen Route)

Moderate

Starting from Ogwen Cottage, this popular route ascends via the dramatic Devil’s Kitchen. The trail takes you alongside Llyn Idwal, through a steep rocky path to the summit of Y Garn, offering spectacular views of Snowdonia’s peaks and lakes along the way.

6.5 km 4 hours

Y Garn via Nant Peris and the North Ridge

Challenging

This route begins at Nant Peris and follows a steep but rewarding ascent up the North Ridge of Y Garn. It offers stunning views of the Glyderau range and the Llanberis Pass. A quieter alternative to the more popular Ogwen Valley route.

8 km 4.5 hours

Y Garn and Glyder Fawr Circular from Ogwen Valley

Challenging

A longer circular walk starting from Ogwen Cottage. This route includes ascents of Y Garn and Glyder Fawr, taking in the rugged beauty of Cwm Idwal, Llyn y Cwn, and the rocky Glyderau plateau.

10 km 6 hours

Y Garn and Elidir Fawr Loop from Nant Peris

Strenuous

Starting in Nant Peris, this loop combines Y Garn with the neighbouring summit of Elidir Fawr. A tough but rewarding hike with panoramic views over Snowdonia and the coastline.

12 km 7 hours

Y Garn via Llyn Clyd and the Eastern Approach

Moderate

This lesser-known ascent begins from the Ogwen Valley and heads past Llyn Idwal and Llyn Clyd before reaching the summit. A quieter route that still offers dramatic scenery and a sense of remoteness.

7 km 4 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Cwm Idwal car park, which has limited spaces and a small fee. Arrive early during peak seasons.

Public Transport

Regular buses operate between Bangor and the Ogwen Valley, making it accessible via public transport.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities on the mountain itself, but Bethesda offers a variety of cafés and shops. Public toilets are available at Cwm Idwal car park.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep sections can be slippery, especially in wet weather. Watch out for loose rocks and sudden weather changes.

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

Find Walking Companions

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Y Garn?

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

Are there other walkers around Y Garn?

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 Y Garn search or of course create your own walk for Y Garn

Can I organise a walk to Y Garn?

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 Y Garn.

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 Y Garn?

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 Y Garn 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