Seniors Ridge ^{Grade 3}

This quiet ridge is the dividing line between lonely Cwm Cneifion and Cwm Idwal, and is clearly visible running above the slabby cliffs of Cwm Idwal.

The ridge can be used as an easy approach to Glyder Fawr's summit or alternatively can be climbed after a scramble on the lower cliffs (Direct Approach to Seniors Ridge, Idwal Staircase or NW Face Route).
If taking the easiest line the scramble will be fairly quick, but seeking out the hardest line will extend the trip. If taking the easy approach follow the path from Cwm Idwal that strikes uphill heading for Cwm Cneifion.

When in the hanging valley simply move right to gain the ridge. The views across Cwm Idwal are spectacular.
Once on the ridge simply follow it uphill. A path avoids the difficulties but there is much scrambling to be had. The best (and hardest) is generally to the right of the crest where vertical walls can be climbed with exposure into Cwm Idwal on the right. Some of these barriers are quite high and the rock can be loose and vegetated in places.

The scrambling ranges from easy gentle steps to more technical walls. Eventually the ridge merges with Glyder Fawr's barren summit plateau. Careful navigation is needed to find the top in mist and it can be difficult to tell which rock pile is the highest point (hint; it's a few metres north of the path). There are two good options to descend.

One is to head east, contouring round the rim of Cwm Cneifion to descend the ridge of Y Gribin. The crest can be scrambled down (easy grade 1) or a path can be followed on the left. A good path then descends from the NE corner of Llyn Bochlwyd back to Ogwen Cottage.

The other option is to descend north-west from the summit, down the screes to Llyn y Cwm. A path then heads off right before slanting across below the cliffs of the Devil's Kitchen into Cwm Idwal.

It is vitally important that the correct path is located as this is the only feasible line through the cliffs. Once at the bottom take either path round the lake to return to the car park.