Tryfan
About Tryfan
Tryfan is one of Wales' most famous mountains, requiring scrambling to reach the summit. Adam and Eve, two monoliths on the summit, are traditionally jumped between.
Height & Prominence of Tryfan
Tryfan stands at 918 metres (3010 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 458 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Tryfan is part of the Glyderau. The OS grid reference is SH 664594, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Tryfan carries the classifications of Hewitt, Nuttall.
Location & Nearest Towns
Tryfan 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 Tryfan
Tryfan is a hard walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 918m, 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 Tryfan one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Tryfan is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 918m elevation, and hard difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Tryfan?
Tryfan has a difficulty rating of Hard. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Tryfan?
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 Tryfan?
Tryfan stands at 918m (3010ft) 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 Tryfan? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
