Yr Elen
Yr Elen: The Quiet Peak of the Carneddau
Tucked away on a graceful spur off Carnedd Llewelyn, Yr Elen is one of Snowdonia’s most underrated summits. Standing at 962 metres, it’s the ninth-highest mountain in Wales—but often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours. That makes it a perfect escape for hikers seeking solitude, wild scenery, and a strikingly beautiful ridge walk in the heart of the Carneddau.
A Hidden Ridge with Mountain Majesty
Yr Elen’s slender profile and long ridgeline give it a unique presence among the vast, sprawling Carneddau. It offers dramatic views over Cwm Caseg, a remote glacial valley, and back towards Carnedd Llewelyn’s impressive bulk. The summit itself is quiet and windswept, with a commanding position above some of Snowdonia’s wildest terrain. It’s a peaceful reward for those willing to stray slightly from the main path.
Snowdon’s varied routes mean there’s something for everyone, from leisurely walkers to seasoned hikers. Whether you’re taking the popular Llanberis Path or tackling the exhilarating Crib Goch ridge, each ascent is rewarding in its own way. Reaching the summit is not just about the view; it’s about the journey, the effort, and the stories you’ll tell after.
© Brad Carr
Walks & Hikes Around Yr Elen
While Yr Elen isn’t always a main objective, it’s a fantastic addition to longer routes across the Carneddau. These hikes give you the best experience of its remote beauty:
Book a Guided Hike on Yr Elen
Yr Elen via Cwm Caseg (out-and-back)
- 6.5 mi
- 4 hrs - 5 hrs
A stunning approach through the wild Cwm Caseg valley, followed by a steady but rough ascent to the ridge.
Carnedd Llewelyn & Yr Elen Loop from Gerlan
- 10 mi
- 6 hrs - 7 hrs
A classic mountain loop that bags both Carnedd Llewelyn and Yr Elen, with wide ridge walking and remote feel.
Yr Elen via Carnedd Dafydd & Llewelyn (from Ogwen)
- 11 mi
- 7 hrs - 8 hrs
Part of a longer Carneddau traverse starting from Ogwen Valley. Yr Elen is a peaceful detour before descending.
Yr Elen via Braich Ty Du Ridge (from Bethesda)
- 8.5 mi
- 5 hrs - 6 hrs
Crib Goch is an exposed, knife-edge ridge for confident scramblers, thrilling, technical, and not for the faint-hearted.
Yr Elen from Llanfairfechan (linear route)
- 9.5 mi
- 6 hrs - 7 hrs
A full-day walk across open moorland and Carneddau peaks, best with a return lift or second car.
What to Know Before You Go
Yr Elen is a remote mountain with no clear footpath to the summit, so confident navigation skills are essential. The terrain can be boggy, especially through Cwm Caseg, and the ridges are exposed in bad weather. Bring full hill gear, maps, and enough supplies for a full day, this isn’t a mountain to rush.
Why We Love Yr Elen
There’s something special about the quiet peaks, and Yr Elen offers peace, perspective, and wild beauty in every direction. From the elegant sweep of its ridgeline to the solitude of its summit, it’s a true Carneddau experience, remote, raw, and rewarding.How to Get to Yr Elen
The most direct access is from the Gerlan area of Bethesda (postcode: LL57 3UQ), where you can walk up through Cwm Caseg. There’s limited street parking in the village, please be respectful to locals and avoid blocking driveways.
By public transport, take a bus or train to Bangor, then a local bus to Bethesda. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the trailhead.
If you’re travelling by public transport, the nearest train station is in Bangor, from where you can catch a bus to Llanberis. Sherpa buses also link the main trailheads, including Pen-y-Pass and Snowdon Ranger.
A Bit of Yr Elen History
The name “Yr Elen” is thought to refer to Saint Elen of the Ways, a figure from Welsh legend associated with ancient Roman roads. While the mountain itself has no formal trail, it’s part of a broader landscape filled with history, from Roman activity to ancient drovers’ tracks. Today, it remains one of the quieter corners of Snowdonia, ideal for those looking to explore the park’s wilder side.
Keep exploring
Yr Elen is just one of the hidden gems in the Carneddau range. Looking for more remote ridges, wild valleys, and quiet summits? Explore the full Carneddau and discover what makes North Snowdonia so special.