A big shapely peak on the western end of the Glyderau, rising steeply above the dark waters of Llyn Idwal
Open accesson open access land, where the right to roam applies
Y Garn is one of the shapeliest hills in Eryri (Snowdonia), a steep 946m peak at the western end of the Glyderau range. Seen from the Ogwen valley it has a fine curving face with two ridges that wrap round a central hollow, and it stands directly above Llyn Idwal, the small dark lake cradled in the rocky bowl of Cwm Idwal — a cwm being the Welsh word for this kind of steep-walled mountain hollow. The name Y Garn means something like “the cairn”.
It’s a proper mountain walk with a lot of height to gain in a short distance, so expect a steep, sustained pull whichever way you go. Most people start from Ogwen Cottage by the lake, either climbing the north-east ridge for a rockier line or going up past Llyn Idwal first. The paths are clear on the main routes but the ground is steep and rough near the top, and like everywhere in these mountains the weather can change fast and the cloud sits low on the tops, so carry a map and warm kit and be ready to turn back.
Many walkers take in Y Garn as part of a longer round over the neighbouring Glyder tops, but on its own it’s a rewarding half-day with one of the best views over Llyn Ogwen and the Carneddau opposite. Cwm Idwal itself, at the foot of the climb, is a national nature reserve and well worth an unhurried wander whether or not you go for the summit.
More at hill-bagging.co.uk
