Some of my Tryfan photography | Tryfan mountain Snowdonia

Tryfan is one of Snowdonia’s most iconic and photogenic mountains, rising sharply to 917.5 metres (3,010 feet) in the Glyderau range. Its jagged, rocky outline is easily recognisable, especially from the A5 road, and it’s a magnet for climbers, scramblers, and photographers. Unlike most Welsh mountains, Tryfan cannot be summited without using your hands, with the North Ridge offering a thrilling Grade 1 scramble. Here are some of my favourite viewpoints for Tryfan photography.

Photographers are spoiled for choice when capturing Tryfan. Llyn Ogwen, located at the mountain’s base, offers some of the most accessible and dramatic views. Early morning light or mist rising off the lake adds atmosphere, while sunset casts golden hues across Tryfan’s rugged face. Reflections in the lake often create striking compositions.

Another incredible spot is Afon Lloer, a mountain stream that flows from Llyn Cwm Lloer. From here, you get a beautiful angle of Tryfan’s steep western slopes, with flowing water in the foreground — perfect for long exposure shots.

The East Face of Tryfan is particularly dramatic. From the slopes near Gwern Gof Uchaf campsite or the approach to Bristly Ridge, you can photograph the sheer cliffs and shattered rocks that define this side of the mountain. The play of light and shadow here can be breathtaking, especially in the golden hour.

Further south, Cwm Idwal offers wider, panoramic views of Tryfan across a glacial valley. The path around Llyn Idwal provides several vantage points where Tryfan’s rugged profile towers above the landscape, often mirrored in the still lake waters.

Finally, Bwlch Tryfan, the mountain pass between Tryfan and Bristly Ridge, provides a close-up perspective of the summit and surrounding peaks. From here, you can capture the raw texture of the mountain and its imposing form rising into the sky.

Each of these locations offers a different perspective on Tryfan’s raw beauty. Whether you're hiking its ridges or staying low to capture its reflection, Tryfan is a must-visit for landscape photographers exploring Snowdonia.