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Tryfan is one of the most recognisable summits in Snowdonia. At first sight it is an intimidating mountain having the classic pointed shape, rugged crags and a perfect position. Although a comparatively short walk of around 6 miles, around 2500 feet of ascent are undertaken, much of it over strenuous territory. However, it is a walk most able bodied people can undertake although it must be stressed that Tryfan is not a mountain to be treated lightly. In bad weather - snow and ice or high winds - it can be a dangerous place to be. This walk shares the first section of route with walk 3026. You can park your car at the farm for a small charge or alongside the A5. The objective is obvious and it is an easy walk up to the right of Tryfan Bach to reach the start of the steep crags that form Tryfan. I chose the "Heather Terrace" path, which is marked on the OS 1:25000 map. The path can be clearly seen on the approach and its position should be noted. This route provides a moderate way to the summit. Picking up its start is difficult but once on it the way ahead is obvious. Quite quickly you reach the col between the Main and South peaks of Tryfan and from here it is a scramble over large rocks to the summit. Apart from one awkward section it is a straight forward scramble. The summit is a wonderful viewpoint and far below you can see the A5 threading its way alongside Llyn Ogwen. To continue return to the col first encountered on the climb up from the "Heather Terrace". Stay on the ridge and follow the path to Bwlch Tryfan with some clambering over rocks on the way. Turn right to follow the path to Ogwen Cottage. This descends past Llyn Bochlwyd, which looks like a map of Australia! The path is good with much reconstruction having taken place in recent years. This leads you down to the cafe and other facilities at Ogwen Cottage with good views ahead to the Carneddau and down the u-shaped valley of Nant Francon towards Bethesda. The onward route takes along the northern shores of Llyn Ogwen. Cross the A5 and head north and cross the river bridge. There is a finger post on the north side of the A5 just over the bridge. The initial stages of the path can be hard to locate and there are a couple of large "steps" that need to be overcome before a clearer more defined route becomes apparent. If you lose the path the best option is to stay as close as you can to the river, which should be on your immediate right. After negotiating the tricky initial section the path meanders across pleasant rocky meadows with a good view across Llyn Ogwen to Tryfan and the Glyders. Occasionally the path becomes unclear but there are cairns for most of the route which do help with navigation. The path exits onto a track and this leads back to the A5 opposite Tryfan's north ridge. All that remains is either a hike up the road or the more pleasant alternative across fields to the starting point. Suggested Maps It is recommended you take a map with you when following a walk route. The preferred scale is 1:25000 used by the Explorer series.
Note : If two maps are listed at the same scale then either (a) both are required for full coverage of the route or (b) the route is covered on both maps. E and S Thomas, Bangor - Gwynedd Plas Tan y Graig, Beddgelert - Gwynedd Bryn Bella Guest House, Betws-y-Coed - Conwy Glan Aber Hotel, Betws-y-Coed - Conwy Bryn Afon Guest House, Betws-y-Coed - Conwy Fron Deg B&B, Maentwrog - Gwynedd The Don, Blaenau Ffestiniog - Gwynedd Cae Mawr B&B, Tan Yr Allt, Llanllyfni - Gwynedd Cae Gwyn, Penrhyndeudraeth - Gwynedd Gwrach Ynys Country Guest House, Harlech - Gwynedd Self Catering Directory Walks & Peaks Bedsearcher Hostelbookers - Hostels in England, Scotland and Wales
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