Glyder Fach


Glyder Fach is a mountain in Snowdonia, north-west Wales, and is the second highest of the Glyderau and the sixth highest in Wales.
Routes to the summit lead from Tryfan and Bristly Ridge to the north, via Glyder Fawr from Pen-y-Pass to the south, and along the Glyder ridge to the east, towards Capel Curig. It is a popular spot for climbers.
According to Sir Ifor Williams, the word "Glyder" derives from the Welsh word "Gludair", meaning a heap of stones.
Situated near the summit is Y Gwyliwr, a large rock which from the correct angle appears to be precariously balanced, making it a popular place for photographs. Another notable feature, west of the summit, is Castell y Gwynt, a spiky rocky outcrop.

Bristly Ridge

Bristly Ridge is a grade 1 scramble in Snowdonia. It is located on the north side of Glyder Fach. Consensus puts the difficulty at Grade 1, but it is at the upper end of the grade and some lines qualify as Grade 2. There are some exposed and steep sections of climbing, particularly the upper pitch of Main Gully and the direct descent into Great Pinnacle Gap. However these sections may be by-passed in favour of easier lines, reducing the overall difficulty to Grade 1.

Incidental Information

"Castell y Gwynt" and the "Cantilever Stone" featured in Walt Disney's 1981 movie Dragonslayer; this was one entrance to the Dragon's lair.