The arete has a number of towers and tracing the easier variations amongst these produces a grade III scramble. A more direct line provides a 'diff' standard rock climb. On the top section of the arete difficulties ease, and the views provide the main interest.

As well as a scramble, and a low grade rock climb, the Cyfrwy Arete can provide an interesting winter mountaineering route. Under snow and ice it is given a winter grade of II, but it may be found to be harder than this. So there it is, one arete with three different types of mountain adventure.

The Cyfrwy Arete is a popular scramble on Cadair Idris. A classic rock climbing start is the Table Direct.

Halfway up the Cyfrwy Arete there is a flat topped pillar. The Table Direct follows the obvious groove line in the front of the pillar. Last time I did this climb in 2006 the crux second pitch had some dangerously loose blocks. Above this the difficulties ease as the arete is approached.