Description

Pen Yr Ole Wen is the southernmost peak in the Carneddau range, towering high above Llyn Ogwen.

The sprawling Carneddau tend to be much quieter than its neighbouring range, the Glyderau, which makes them perfect for enjoying a bit of mountain solitude.

Pen Yr Ole Wen can be climbed as part of a longer route, heading along the broad ridge to bag the peaks of Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llewellyn, but it can also be enjoyed all on its own if you are short on time.

Climb this pyramidal peak on a clear day and you are guaranteed spectacular views out over Llyn Ogwen, mighty Tryfan and Cwm Idwal, which is flanked by the rising peaks of the Glyderau. For the masochists out there, the most direct path to the summit is a brutal pull straight up out of Ogwen, climbing 675 meters in approximately 1.5km.

The path is very eroded in places and there isn’t always a clear route, so give this one a miss unless you’re an experienced hillwalker who likes a challenge.

A gentler route starts from Tal-y-Llyn Ogwen, following the Afon Lloer stream before reaching Ffynnon Lloer.

Follow a path off to the left up the ridge which will lead you to the summit, marked with a cairn. As featured here: https://mpora.com/hiking-and-trail-running/alternative-summits-to-snowdon/