Highlight • Viewpoint
Pen yr Ole Wen
Hiking
4.9
(124)
The first or the last in the range, depending on how you look at it, this mountain offers fantastic views over the Ogwen valley and the stunning Glyderau range to the south. With plenty of places to park along the A5, you can choose your starting point to suit, accommodating for any additional Carneddau peaks you want to sneak into the day.
Towering giants and breathtaking scenery
The same height as Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, Pen yr Ole Wen’s summit sits at 3,209 feet (978 m) and rises abruptly from the Ogwen Valley. If you’re feeling more mountain goat than human, you can hike directly from the A5 opposite the youth hostel.
This direct route is home to much scree and isn’t for first-time hillwalkers. It includes airy scrambles and the fantastically exposed Pinnacle Ridge. If you prefer, you can park at the eastern end of Llyn Ogwen and follow Afon Lloer to hike up Pen yr Ole Wen’s eastern ridge.
Hiking this sometimes overlooked summit is always a steep affair unless you arrive from another of the Carneddau, in which case your descent will be steep instead. Nevertheless, once you reach the peak, you’ll be duly rewarded (on a clear day) with jaw-dropping views of the Glyders and majestic Tryfan showing off her spiny ridge.
You can enjoy good hiking conditions throughout the year but if snow and ice descend, only experienced winter mountaineers should attempt this summit.
Find toilets, parking and a YHA in Pen y Benglog whilst more amenities can be found along the A5 in Bethesda, Bangor and Llanberis.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
December 13, 2019
Hiking
November 7, 2018
Hiking
The slightly easier trail starts from the eastern end of Llyn Ogwen and ascends via Ffynnon Lloer. Unfortunately, there is no easy option. Once you make it to the summit, though, prepare to be impressed with magnificent views over to Tryfan and the Glyderau.
October 28, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Pen yr Ole Wen
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Details
Informations
Elevation 960 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Saturday 20 June
19°C
5°C
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