The Glyders in a day - east to west
A moderate walk (mountain (above 600m)) in national park Snowdonia starting and finishing in Gwynedd, Wales, about 14.60km (9.07 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 6:15h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
706m (2316ft)
Descent
997m (3270ft)
Max. Elevation
990m (3248ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
1703m (5586ft)
Start
Pen-y-pass
End
Llanberis
Distance
14.60km
(9.07mi)
(9.07mi)
Duration
~6:15h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ordnance Survey Map
The best way to enjoy the Glyders is to walk them end to end in one go - none of this walking in circles nonsense. Use the 'Snowdon Sherpa' bus to travel to Pen-y-pass, then take in five of the best peaks in Wales before a short drop off to Llanberis, home of the legendary 'Pete's Eats' for a pint of tea! There's a little bit of scrambling on the Glyders - nothing too serious, but worth being aware, especially in bad weather.
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Waypoints
OS Grid SH647558
Start of the walk. Ignore the hordes starting the trek up Snowdon - that's a car-free walk for another day. Instead, take the path behind the hostel heading towards Llyn Cwmffynnon.
OS Grid SH654572
It's a hard slog over rough ground to start the day. Follow the stream from the lake, and branch off east towards the summit of Glyder Fach.
About 1.62 km (~1.01 miles) from 
OS Grid SH657582
The day's first summit! Look out for the famous Cantilever Stone - perfect for a photo. Head west along the ridge to Castell y Gwynt - the Castle of the Wind. This rocky outcrop is great for scrambling, but there is a path around it to the south if that's not your cup of tea.
About 1.04 km (~0.65 miles) from 
OS Grid SH644578
The second summit is the highest peak of the day, 999m. Head past Llyn y Cwm and take the path up to Y Garn, taking time to check out the stunning views from the top of the Devil's Kitchen.
About 1.36 km (~0.85 miles) from 
OS Grid SH631595
It's a bit of a climb up Y Garn, but the views down to the Pass of Llanberis to the south, and the Carneddau to the north, make it worthwhile.
About 2.14 km (~1.33 miles) from 
OS Grid SH628612
Things quieten down at Foel-goch - far fewer walkers head this way than the more distinctive eastern tops. But that gives you the chance to enjoy the amazing scenery of Snowdonia in peace and quiet. Just past the summit of Foel-goch, head west along Bwlch y Brecan towards Elider Fawr.
About 1.72 km (~1.07 miles) from 
OS Grid SH613614
The day's final summit. Drop off down the southern slope to pick up the footpath that runs alongside the Afon Dudodyn. The area is dominated by the old Dinorwic slate quarries and the spoil heaps left behind.
About 1.45 km (~0.9 miles) from 
OS Grid SH600595
Follow the paths through the quarries on the north side of Llyn Peris. You can then cross the water between Llyn Peris and Llyn Padarn by the road bridge and into Llanberis.
About 2.37 km (~1.47 miles) from 
LlanberisOS Grid SH576602
The day ends in the town of Llanberis, famous amongst climbers and walkers across the UK. Tradition dictates that you head straight to Pete's Eats on the High Street. Famous for the pints of tea, you can also stay here if you book in advance, or take the bus to your next destination.
About 2.45 km (~1.52 miles) from 
