Please read all information and T&Cs before booking
Summary
A full mountain day exploring one of the most dramatic areas of Eryri (Snowdonia), taking in the Glyderau mountains above Cwm Idwal with incredible panoramic views across North Wales. Led by qualified and experienced Mountain Lead
Starting from Ogwen Visitor Centre, the route climbs through the stunning Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve before ascending Y Garn, Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach. Throughout the day there are expansive views of Tryfan, the Ogwen Valley and the surrounding peaks of Eryri. You’ll get to marvel at some beautiful scenery and build your experience hiking in North Wales.
Find out more about what a Queer Mountain Day is here.
Route Info
Area: Ogwen Valley, Eryri (Snowdonia), North Wales
Planned Route: Ogwen Visitor Centre → Cwm Idwal → Y Garn → Glyder Fawr → Castell y Gwynt → Glyder Fach → return via the Ogwen Valley
Distance, Ascent, Duration: Approx. 13 km and 1,000m of ascent. 6–8 hours including breaks, group pacing and time spent at viewpoints
Meeting Time: 9am at Ogwen Visitor Centre on Sunday 9th July
Parking: Parking available at Ogwen Visitor Centre (paid). Free parking at this layby (5 min walk from meeting point).
Toilets: Public toilets available at Ogwen Visitor Centre before the start of the walk.
Mobile Signal: Mobile signal can be unreliable or unavailable in parts of the route.
What To Expect
This is a challenging but achievable mountain day for anyone wanting to spend a full day in the hills, push themselves physically and share the experience with others. Expect good conversation along the way — about the outdoors, mountain environments, upland flora and fauna, and movement in the hills — alongside plenty of chances to learn and take in the surroundings.
The day is designed to feel supportive and adaptable rather than rigid or competitive. Depending on the group's pace, weather conditions and energy levels, there's scope to shorten or extend the route.
One of the highlights is passing through Castell y Gwynt ("Castle of the Winds"), a dramatic rocky outcrop in the Glyders known for its striking formations and incredible atmosphere.
Terrain
Mountain paths, rocky sections, and some steep ascents. Some sections can become slippery in wet or windy conditions. And route choice will take this into account.
Experience and fitness required
Previous hiking experience is needed. This hike is mainly aimed at confident hillwalkers who comfortable walking outside all day with a rucksack and are maybe looking to take on a bigger mountain day. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Participants should be comfortable walking for several hours on steep and uneven terrain. Head for heights not essential, but some exposed mountain terrain.
Participants must disclose any relevant medical conditions, injuries or accessibility requirements to Queer Out Here before the event.We welcome conversations about access and individual needs, and will work with participants and Mountain Leaders to determine whether a particular QMD is likely to be a good fit. Due to the nature of mountain and outdoor environments, some routes and activities may have inherent accessibility limitations.
Essential Kit List
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof trousers
Hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip (NO high-street trainers)
Warm layers
Hat and gloves / Sunglasses, sunhat and suncream (weather dependent)
Food and snacks for a full day
At least 1.5–2L of water
Small personal first aid items and any medication (where relevant)
Backpack suitable for mountain use
Recommended kit
Walking poles
Spare warm layer
Paper map of the area and compass (especially if interested in navigation)
Weather Considerations
Mountain weather in Eryri can change quickly and conditions may require route adjustments on the day. Strong wind, heavy rain or poor visibility may affect the planned route or timings.
QMD Terms & Conditions
QMDs are hosted by Queer Out Here and led by independent qualified Mountain Leaders. Your leader is responsible for route planning, safety decisions and the overall delivery of the day, while QOH manages bookings, communications and participant support..
By booking a QMD (Queer Mountain Day), participants agree to the following:
Booking & Payment
Full payment is required at the time of booking.
Your place is only confirmed once payment has been received.
QMDs require a minimum number of participants to run.
Participant Cancellation
Cancellations made more than 14 days before the event will receive a refund minus any booking/processing fees.
Cancellations made within 14 days of the event are non-refundable unless the place can be filled from a waiting list.
Participants are welcome to find a replacement, subject to approval by QOH and the event leader.
Event Cancellation
If a QMD does not reach minimum numbers, participants will be offered a full refund or transfer to another event.
In the unlikely event that a QMD must be cancelled by QOH or the Mountain Leader, participants will be offered a refund or transfer.
QOH cannot reimburse travel, accommodation or any other costs incurred by participants.
Weather & Route Changes
Mountain weather can change rapidly and conditions may require changes to the planned route, timings or objectives.
Poor weather alone will not automatically result in cancellation.
The Mountain Leader may alter the route or plan at any time in the interests of safety, weather conditions or group wellbeing.
Participant Responsibility
Participants are responsible for ensuring they have the required fitness, experience and equipment for the event they are booking.
Participants must disclose any relevant medical conditions, injuries or accessibility requirements before the event.
Participants are responsible for carrying any medication they may need during the day.
Equipment
Participants must bring the essential kit listed on the event page.
The Mountain Leader reserves the right to refuse participation where equipment is considered unsuitable for the conditions or terrain.
No refund will be provided in these circumstances.
Safety
The Mountain Leader's decisions regarding safety, route choice, pace and participation are final.
Participants are expected to follow safety instructions throughout the event.
Community Expectations
QMDs are inclusive, welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ people.
Participants are expected to treat one another with respect and follow the Queer Out Here Code of Conduct.
Discriminatory, abusive or unsafe behaviour may result in removal from the event without refund.
Photography
Photos may occasionally be taken during QMDs for promotional purposes.
Participants will always be given the opportunity to opt out.
Liability
Participation in mountain activities involves inherent risks.
While every effort is made to manage risk appropriately, participants take part at their own risk and are responsible for their own personal belongings
Event led by AJ (they/them)