This has to be one of the best sunrise walks in Eryri (Snowdonia), the golden glow creeping up and over Tryfan in the distance is really special and if you’re looking for a short mountain hike, then we definitely recommend setting the early alarm for this one.
What to expect
The walk starts off easy from the car park with a relatively flat cobbled path until you reach Llyn Idwal. At this point the path gets more rocky and much steeper towards the summit of Y Garn, and your highest point on the route at 947m.
The path is good and easy to follow at the top but turns into scree coming down into Devil’s Kitchen which is hard walking, very loose and slippery underfoot.
Getting there & parking
Park in the main Ogwen Valley Cottage pay and display car park – LL57 3LZ. There is also FREE lay-by parking just a little further down the A5, but these do fill up quickly, especially at busy times.
The route
Leaving the car park, head up the main cobbled path towards Llyn Idwal, on reaching the lake you’ll see a footpath going through a gate and off to the right. Take this one and head up the scrambley and rocky section towards the summit of Y Garn. If you head here for sunrise this has to be one of the best sunrise spots in North Wales. You’ll see a wind shelter at the summit before passing it and heading towards Llyn Y Cwn, a small lake at the top of Devil’s Kitchen, this is where you’ll take the path on your left to make the steep descent down. This will lead you to Llyn Idwal and you should recognise where you are from the start of your walk. Follow the path back to the car park.
Tips & what to bring
As a summer walk, this is a beautiful route but in winter it can be very technical so only do it during this time if you are confident in hiking in these conditions, crampons and ice axes will be needed. The weather in the mountains can change in minutes, so make sure you’re prepared, a power bank, waterproofs, extra layers and good footwear is a must, as well as a map to navigate if visibility becomes poor.
Eat & drink nearby
The visitor centre cafe by the car park sells snacks, and the towns of Betws Y Coed, Llanberis and Caernarfon are all within a 30 minute drive if you want something bigger.
Places to stay nearby
More walks near here
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