Tryfan by the North Ridge from Ogwen Valley
This challenging route to the summit of Tryfan is one the great walks and scrambles of Snowdonia. Starting from the Ogwen Valley, much of the ascent up Tryfan's north ridge involves the use of hands. In winter this route takes on a different character when ice and snow are present and should only be attempted by those experienced in winter mountaineering.
A
Capel Curig walk
posted on 04/07/16 by Walking Britain. Last update : 22/07/16
Description
(S/E) From Gwern Gof Uchaf follow the path that skirts the western flank of Tryfan Bach where you will probably see climbers learning the basic skills. The path climbs steadily to reach a fence (Grid ref. 669599). Turn right alongside this fence and climb further to reach the start of the "Heather Terrace", which will be used for the descent. Continue upwards ignoring the Terrace gaining height to reach Tryfan's north ridge.
There now follows nearly a thousand feet of scrambling. There are easy routes over almost all of the ascent with the option of harder routes for those who enjoy extra thrills or challenges. It is hard to describe the precise route although mostly it is obvious through heavy use.
The scramble is tiring even for those with reasonable levels of fitness and at times you may feel that you have achieved no height gain. When arriving to start the walk you may have noticed a large rock sticking out from the north ridge. This is "the Canon" and when reached provides an indication that you have made some progress. Passing the Canon you still have a fair way to go and progress may slow as the scrambling gets more intensive. Eventually you reach the summit and are rewarded with a superb view in all directions.
(1) Head south off the summit. Shortly after starting the descent you go close to the top of the South Gully, which is one of the climber's routes to the summit. Under normal conditions there is a little exposure as you pass the top of this precipitous gully but nothing too hairy. If in doubt sit down and scuttle across on your bottom! From here there is a short re-ascent to the South Summit before the descent continues with plenty of scrambling. With a wide choice of routes you can get in a tangle and may have to re-ascend to find an easier way down.
(2) Reaching the distinct col, with the Far South summit ahead, turn left down grassy scree to reach the "Heather Terrace". Locating the Heather Terrace path is quite difficult and you may have to hunt around to find the path, which descends gradually across the east face of Tryfan. Assuming you have been successful continue down the terrace to reach the fence. Cross the fence and turn right before retracing your steps down past Tryfan Bach to reach the start (S/E).
Note - if you are unsuccessful finding the "Heather Terrace" the continue on down the slope to the valley below and turn left on the valley path. This brings you out near to Tryfan Bach.
Waypoints
- S/E : km 0 - alt. 311 m - Gwern Gof Uchaf
- 1 : km 1.54 - alt. 864 m - Tryfan
- 2 : km 1.78 - alt. 825 m - Col, turn left
- S/E : km 3.42 - alt. 311 m
Useful Information
This route starts from Gwern Gof Uchaf (Grid ref. SH672604), where parking and camping is available for a small charge. Alternatively you can park on the side of the A5 close by. The route chosen is the hardest of the "walkers" routes to the summit of Tryfan and before starting this route you should make sure it is within your capabilities. The route description is based on a summer ascent. However notes on completing the route in winter conditions have been added at the end of the description.
In summer the route can be quite daunting for walkers with little experience and plenty of time should be allowed as it will take much longer than anticipated. It must be stressed that there is very little actual walking involved in the ascent and part of the descent and you must be aware that much of the time will be spent scrambling.
Winter Route Description
Tryfan with snow and ice can be difficult and it is important that you choose your day. In these condition it is essential that you have adequate equipment and you are aware of the hazards that may be encountered. You should also be prepared to turn back if the going gets too tough. You should also have some experience of an ascent in winter conditions to the summit of an easier peak and preferably climbed Tryfan by the same route in summer.
After snowfall and a sharp overnight frost the biggest problem was snow-melt, which had re-frozen into sheet ice. Most was avoidable and caused no major problems. However this could have been much worse and crampons and ice-axe are recommended.
With no snow on the ground the route is clear for the full ascent however under snow care needs to be taken that you select the right approach. There were areas with snow drifts, which concealed some of the route. They also made it hard to judge what lay between the large blocks of rock.
The summit area was very slippery with a thin layer of ice coating virtually every rock. Extreme care was needed especially crossing the top of South Gully. This was probably the "hairiest" moment of the day!
The descent from the col to the "Heather Terrace" was also lethal in places with ice covered by a thin layer of snow. The best route was keeping well to the right on this descent.
Always stay careful and alert while following a route. Visorando and the author of this walk cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident during this route.
