At 994m (3262ft), Glyder Fach is the 9th highest Hewitt, one of 523 Hewitts in total. At this altitude, summit conditions can be severe — check the Glyder Fach wind chill, freezing level and cloud base before setting out. Winter walking on Glyder Fach requires full mountain equipment.
Glyder Fach is a mountain in Snowdonia, north-west Wales, and is the second highest of the Glyderau and the sixth highest in Wales.
Routes to the summit lead from Tryfan and Bristly Ridge to the north, via Glyder Fawr from Pen-y-Pass to the south, and along the Glyder ridge to the east, towards Capel Curig.
Geology: The bedrock here is Unnamed Igneous Intrusion, Ordovician — Rhyolite — a volcanic rock similar in composition to granite. Age: Ordovician Period.
Planning to walk Glyder Fach? Our summit weather forecast shows live conditions at 994m including wind speed, wind chill, temperature, freezing level, cloud base and rain risk. The forecast updates hourly using data from 7 weather models blended into the HILLANDGLEN ensemble — accuracy-weighted so the best-performing models have the most influence.
Key conditions to check before climbing Glyder Fach: wind chill (the real temperature you'll feel on exposed ridges), freezing level (whether ice and snow are likely on the summit), cloud base (whether you'll have visibility at 994m), and wind gusts (which can be significantly stronger on exposed summits than in the valley below).
Glyder Fach weather can change quickly at 994m. Valley conditions often differ from the summit — our forecast applies lapse rate adjustments to give you the actual temperature and wind at the top, not the nearest town. Check the 14-day outlook to find the best day to walk Glyder Fach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is Glyder Fach?
Glyder Fach is 994 metres (3262 feet) above sea level. It is classified as a Hewitt in Wales.
What is the weather like on Glyder Fach?
At 994m, Glyder Fach experiences significantly harsher conditions than the valleys below. Summit temperatures are typically 6-8°C colder due to the lapse rate, winds are stronger and more exposed, and cloud cover can reduce visibility to just a few metres. Always check the summit forecast before setting out — hillandglen.com shows live wind chill, freezing level, cloud base and rain risk updated hourly.
Is Glyder Fach safe to climb in winter?
Glyder Fach is a serious winter mountain at 994m. Snow, ice and sub-zero wind chill are common from November to April. Full winter equipment is essential: ice axe, crampons, waterproofs, warm layers and navigation tools. Always check the freezing level and wind forecast before attempting a winter ascent.
What is a Hewitt?
A Hewitt is a mountain in England or Wales over 2,000 feet (609.6 metres) with a drop of at least 30 metres on all sides. There are 523 Hewitts. The list was compiled by Alan Dawson and includes all major peaks south of the Scottish border.
When is the best time to climb Glyder Fach?
The best months for climbing Glyder Fach are typically May to September, when days are longest and weather is generally drier. Summer offers the most stable conditions and longest daylight hours. Winter ascents (November-April) are possible but require full winter mountaineering equipment and experience.
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