Ogwen - Y Garn, Elidir Fawr & Y Llymllwyd Ridge

Route - Ogwen - Y Garn, Elidir Fawr & Y Llymllwyd Ridge

Another classic mountain walk, taking in 2 of the Welsh 3,000 peaks, with great views available throughout the day. Good route for quick height gain up the NE Ridge. 
Ne Ridge to Y Garn summit, optional  excursion approx 850m contour direct up the ridge rather than the defined path on the Llyn Clyd side, topping out turn left to Y Garn summit, good spot for a break with expansive views of Tryfan and the Ogwen Valley. Return back to exit of NE ridge and descend NNW again on defined path that keeps close to edge of Cwm Cywion. On reaching col approx GR SH 62711 60265 Option here to take in Foel Goch summit or take level path that contours 750m to the west of Foel Goch, towards Elidir Fawr. On reaching Bwlch y Marchlyn take a look down onto Marchlyn Mawr reservoir and the dam of Electric Mountain. Path from here to summit of Elidir Fawr is occasionally rugged in places but well defined. There is shelter and spectacular views from Elidir Fawr Summit cairn. 

Retrace path to Foel Goch and either take in summit or continue some way along original route and then attack due East to Bwlch y Cywion. Cross Style and progress to find defined path to Llymllwyn Ridge, this provides an excellent final ridge of the day, take care during high winds. Descend approx SSE of ridge again along small but defined path into Cwm Cywion, cross stream at GR SH 63567 60468 and continue on 500m contour below Pinnacle Crag this will eventually return you onto the path that ascends the NE ridge of Y Garn. Return along path taking in Tin Can Alley and finally Ogwen Cottage.

Weather
Mild for the time of year, December!! Some small patches of snow remaining in cornices and gullies, not impeding travel. Strong wind from the south west, eased later in the afternoon. Inversion with cloud rising later in the day.

Ground Conditions
Mixed ground, good trail partially paved up ridge, from there on well defined mountain path.

Time
Length: 11.8km Height Gain: 1113m. 
Highest Points: Y Garn 947m, Elidir Fawr 923m
Time: approx 5 hrs inc lunch break


Group 12 Persons plus expert mountain dog (Sky)

https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/4266962/Y-Garn-and-Elidir-Fawr-via-NE-Ridge-Y-Llymllwyd-Ridge