Carnedd y Filiast Circular Walk

Difficulty
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Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,000 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Carnedd y Filiast Circular Walk

This Carnedd y Filiast circular walk provides incredible views from each of the four summits along the route, the perfect adventure for those with a head for heights! Starting from the Ogwen visitor centre, you’ll head for the northern shores of pristine Llyn Idwal before summiting the iconic Y Garn peak. From there, it’s a journey north along the mountain ridge to Foel Goch, Mynydd Prefedd, and finally Carnedd y Filiast itself. The descent requires some navigation skills, but the final stretch along the valley road is as straightforward as can be.

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Route Description for 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.

Getting to the Carnedd y Filiast Circular Walk Trailhead

This Carnedd y Filiast walk starts from the Ogwen visitor centre. There is some parking here - if no spots are available, try one of the lay-bys along the A5 parallel to Llyn Ogwen.

Route Information

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Carnedd y Filiast Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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Carnedd y Filiast Circular Walk Reviews

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