Carnedd y Filiast Circular Walk

Start the walk along the trail that leads to Llyn Idwal. This is roughly parallel to the A5 at first, then turns right and continues southwest to the northeast corner of the lake. Cross over a footbridge on your right and skirt the northern shores of the lake, then take the path bearing west away from the lake and towards Y Garn. If you want to extend the hike, you can continue down the lake and ascend via the Devil’s Kitchen. On this route, the west-bearing path is fairly clear as it makes its way up Y Garn, the terrain becoming looser as you go. The path loops south as you reach the summit ridge. Soon, you’ll arrive at the spectacular peak of Y Garn. Turn back the way you came along the ridge, and continue north towards Foel Goch with the steep crags on your right. This is a pleasant straightforward section that brings you to the Foel Goch summit, with steep cliffs on the north and east slopes.

Here, you’ll want to aim left before curving northeast towards your third peak of the day, Mynydd Perfedd. With the crags on one side and views of Elidir Fawr on the other, the scenery continues to impress. The final summit is Carnedd y Filiast, with the path leading north then slightly east. On your right you’ll spot the “Atlantic Slab”, a massive rock face considered one of the best rope-in climbs in Snowdonia. From the top of Carnedd y Filiast, the descent is tricky and without any clear path. You’ll want to aim northeast and stay left of the steep cliffs on your right hand side. The local flora is often overgrown and an obstacle to work through. You’ll eventually reach a road that runs roughly parallel to the A5. Turn right here and follow the road all the way back to the Ogwen visitor centre.