Y Garn and Elidir Fawr are two 3,000 feet mountains that lie to the north of the long, winding Glyder ridge. They are best climbed from Llanberis to the west. The terrain makes the walking easier and quieter than the more popular mountains to the south of the Glyder ridge.
I must admit that I was not 100% sure I had been over Elidir Fawr before. I had last been on the Glyders 30 years ago and my memory was somewhat hazy of the walk. Therefore a repeat trip was on the cards. However rather than approaching them from the east I climbed the steep, grassy slopes near Llanberis. The approach to Llyn Cwn was unrelenting but rewarding. In particular the views back across the valley towards Snowdon.
From Llyn Cwn the walk is a delight, particularly if you stick to the high ridge, passing over both Y Garn and Foel-goch. The route I took contours west to Elidir Fawr and enjoys some excellent views across Marchlyn Mawr Reservoir. To appreciate the reservoir to its fullest however it is possible to continue along the main ridge to Carnedd Filiast. The summit of Elidir Fawr is a good one. The shelter is well constructed and the short, rocky ridge feels like it is perched in the skies. The drop from here to Llanberis direct is a dramatic 3,000 feet drop over steep grassy lands before the extensive quarries make progress impossible. The descent is further to the south.
On a busy day this is an excellent walk to gain height and enjoy the views across Snowdonia without the crowds.
From the shelter at the summit of Elidir Fawr walk 10m along the ridge to the west before descending to avoid the worst of the shattered rock. The path is only obvious below the rocks.
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