Elidir Fawr
About Elidir Fawr
Elidir Fawr is the northernmost of the major Snowdonia peaks. Inside the mountain is the Dinorwig Power Station, a massive pumped-storage facility.
Height & Prominence of Elidir Fawr
Elidir Fawr stands at 924 metres (3031 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 424 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Elidir Fawr is part of the Glyderau. The OS grid reference is SH 613613, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Elidir Fawr carries the classifications of Hewitt, Nuttall.
Location & Nearest Towns
Elidir Fawr is located in Wales, Gwynedd, within Snowdonia National Park. It sits in the Glyderau area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Snowdonia National Park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Elidir Fawr
Elidir Fawr is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 924m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elidir Fawr one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Elidir Fawr is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 924m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Elidir Fawr?
Elidir Fawr has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Elidir Fawr?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Elidir Fawr?
Elidir Fawr stands at 924m (3031ft) in Wales, Gwynedd. Classified as a Hewitt and Nuttall, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Elidir Fawr? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
