Although there isn't much in the way of scrambling on Yr Elen's NE Ridge an ascent is recommended for both the solitude and scenic views into the normally hidden Cwm Casseg. The walk in can take up to 2 hours.

Begin from Bethesda. Either contour round below Foel Ganol (trackless) or use the path on the north bank of the Afon Casseg to move round below Yr Elen's north slopes.

The ridge is an obvious line heading up to the summit. Gain it where possible and follow it upwards, sticking close to the crest for a few scrambly steps; the rest of the ground is mainly grass. Higher up exceptional views are gained down to the lake of Ffynnon Casseg and its impressive backdrop of cliffs.

In front, the ridge narrows and begins to resemble the Glyders with shattered rock spikes appearing. A path avoids the rockwork but take a direct line to maximise the fun. Above a final steepening the ridge ends close by the 962m summit.

The shortest way down is via the NE ridge and Foel Ganol which is quick but on scree in places. A better option is to head SE to Carnedd Llewelyn then on to Carnedd Dafydd. The quiet NW ridge can then be followed along Mynydd Du and back to Bethesda (care with navigation leaving the summit of Dafydd in mist as cliffs lie on its NE flank).

Discuss this route in the forum