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Gallt yr Ogof

We live in a world that is all about coming first; runners up are all but forgotten. Who came second in the Derby? That is exactly Gallt yr Ogof’s problem. It may be the second most charismatic peak along the A5 from Capel Curig but, rising in the shadow of Tryfan, what chance has it got? So, sadly, despite a lumbering elephantine sprawl that completely dominates until you round a bend and Tryfan comes into view, it is virtually neglected. Neglected, that is, except by connoisseurs who revel in solitude and the unspoilt freshness of a cairn surrounded by heathery dips and hollows which know nothing of the black peaty scars of fame!

As befits this most E outpost of the mighty Glyders, the view on a clear day is a memorable one. Carneddau, a glimpse of the sea and the countless ranges Siabod, you would expect. However, the scene is now beyond enriched by Llyn Cowlyn and a peep at the Vale of Conway; by Llynnau Mymbyr and the tree-clad hills surrounding Betws-y-coed. Glancing back reveals the splendour of the Glyders heartland and the long tramp to far-off Carnedd y Filiast, the starting point for those hardy souls who attempt all ten tops in a single day.

Direct but trackless approaches are possible from the basin of the Nant yr Ogof to the W, or via Nant Gors from the E. I have eschewed both of them as the former is unpleasantly wet and the latter laboriously rough with every step a battle. Apart from the two routes described below, the only other approach is along the ridge from the nameless peak, following a friendly track close to a brace of tiny tarns.

Cave gully route (GL16)

A route that is every bit as diabolical in descent.

The damp ferny cave that gives the mountain its name is clearly visible from the road about two thirds of the way up, and slightly L of, the prominent gully that rends its N face. The foot of the gully is best reached along the old road from the farm of Gwern Gof Isaf at 685600. Thereafter all you have to look forward to is a brute of a struggle up a treadmill of unstable scree and sparse grey grass. Rampant heather takes over as soon as the angle abates, but by then the damage is done with frayed tempers and dusty, aching limbs.

The Capel Curig route (GL17)

A stile by the side of Joe Brown’s mountain wear shop at Capel Curig signals the start of the old road to Ogwen. Follow it for about 5–10min, past the farmhouse, then break away L up the rock-studded hillside to the crest of the ridge. The route used to be waymarked in red but the signs have long since disappeared and the simplest course nowadays is to follow your nose, dodging cliffs and bog as best you can. Once atop the ridge a path permits a relaxing walk with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the views.