Bochlwyd Horseshoe Wales

High above the Ogwen Valley and facing true north, the deep, glacially carved corrie of Cwm Bochlwyd is the stuff of scramblers‘ dreams. All its enclosing walls soar skyward in a crazy collection of pinnacles, castellated rocks and dark, brooding crags.

Among the confines of this cauldron of rock, and over its surrounding peaks, you will find the greatest concentration of quality scrambles Wales has to offer. Such close proximity means you can easily string a succession of routes together for a full-on mountain experience.

The absolutely do adventure is horseshoe of the Bochlwyd. This gains height by Tryfan’s north ridge, and then embarks on a roller coaster trip first up Bristly Ridge and then down the shapely crest of Y Gribin. All three routes comfortably fit into the grade 1 scrambling bracket and so will not attract the out-and-out walker. However if you have a head for heights and are happy tackling scrambling terrain then this route is a must. If the weather closes in, or you feel uncomfortable at any point, there are escape routes and bypass options.