Guide to Snowdonia National Park
In my blog i’m going to tell you all you need to know about Snowdonia National Park, it’s main highlights and attractions, how to get there, and where to stay.
I’ll share my journey with you as i traversed 42km from Bangor on the east coast to Betys-y-Coed in the heart of Snowdonia National Park.
Plus i’ll uncover the highest mountain in Snowdonia - Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), it’s routes up to the summit, how to prepare and what gear to take with you, and i’ll share my adventure as i hiked up via the Pyg Track, and back down via the Miners Path.
Nestled on the west coast of Britain, Snowdonia National Park, also known as Eyri in Welsh, is a captivating expanse that covers 823 square miles of diverse landscapes, culture, and heritage.
I’ve visited this stunning National Park on countless occasions, on family holidays, and on many hiking adventures with friends or on my own. Every time i go, it serves up something different and unexpected.
So, on the long Bank Holiday weekend of 24th-27th May 2024, I packed up my hiking gear and headed back to Snowdonia. Why?
On Saturday 25th May to take part in the Eyri (Snowdonia) MacMillan Mighty Hike - a marathon (42km / 26miles) hike through Snowdonia National Park (elevation of 2,671ft / 814m).
Then on Sunday 26th May - to hike up Yr Wyddfa (Mt. Snowdon), at 3,560 ft / 1,085m.
All of which to raise money for MacMillan Cancer Support.
CONTENTS
Part 1: Eyri (Snowdonia) National Park
Part 2: Macmillan Cancer Support
Day 1: Eyri (Snowdonia) MacMillan Mighty Hike
Event Details
Route Map
Part 1
Eyri (Snowdonia) National Park
Located in North Wales, Snowdonia National Park, also known as Eryri, is a mountainous region that spans an area of 823 square miles. It’s the largest national park in Wales and the fourth-largest in the UK.
About Snowdonia National Park
NOTABLE FEATURES
Mountains: The park is home to all 15 mountains in Wales over 3,000 feet high, including the country’s highest, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), which stands at 1,085 metres (3,560 ft) tall. These peaks are part of the Snowdon, Glyderau, and Carneddau ranges in the north of the region. The shorter Moelwynion and Moel Hebog ranges lie immediately to the south.
Photo credit of Walk Snowdonia
Geology: The mountains are composed largely of volcanic rock and show the influence of Ice Age glaciers.
Biodiversity: The park boasts a rich biodiversity and is known for its awe-inspiring landscapes.
ATTRACTIONS
Hiking: The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, providing magnificent scenery for visitors.
Snowdon Mountain Railway: This railway provides a scenic journey to the summit of Snowdon, offering unparalleled views along the way.
Culture and heritage: Eyri’s landscape is steeped in culture, history, and heritage. The Welsh language is an integral part of daily life in the area. Over 26,000 people call Snowdonia home, and nearly 4 million visitors explore its beauty every year.
Villages: Beautiful villages such as Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed, Beddgelert and Portmeirion are definitely worth visiting.
National Slate Museum: This museum tells the story of the Slate industry in Wales.
Photo credit of Visit Snowdonia
Outdoor Activities: The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including ziplining, white water rafting, kayaking, gorge walking, rock climbing, and paragliding.
Historical Sites: The park is home to historical sites, including Beaumaris Castle and Harlech Castle.
Photo credit to Wales Coast Path
Natural Beauty: The park features breath-taking peaks, spectacular lakes, and picturesque valleys.
Photo credit of Visit Wales. Note i have never had a view as incredible as this from the Summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)!
Getting there and around
Courtesy of Visit Snowdonia
Train
Direct services take you to the popular North Wales coastal destinations from most parts of Britain. Make inland connections via the Conwy Valley Line which runs through the Eryri National Park to Betws-y-Coed and Blaenau Ffestiniog. Services from the Midlands through Shrewsbury and Machynlleth link up with the Cambrian Line.
National Rail
03457 48 49 50
Transport For Wales
0333 3211 202
Great Little Trains of Wales
Experience the beautiful Welsh countryside on little railways that are passionate about providing a warm welcome and an amazing experience. Take your time as they transport you on a relaxed journey, an ideal little excursion.
Wales on Rails
Promoting tourism by using public transport throughout Wales. Encouraging safe, sustainable, and scenic adventures.
Car
There’s quick, straightforward access from the North West along the M56 and A55. Motorway links with the Midlands are good too, and the same roads – the M6, M5 and M1 – also bring Snowdonia Mountains and Coast within easy reach of the South of England. Electric car charging points map.
The Welsh Government have introduced a default 20mph speed limit on restricted roads across Wales. Restricted roads are usually located in residential and built-up areas where there are lots of people. They often have street lights on them, placed no more than 200 yards apart. Please look out for the speed limit signs when travelling in the area.
Sea
Irish Ferries and Stena Line operate regular and high-speed services to Holyhead from Dublin. For southern Snowdonia Mountains and Coast, ferry services into Fishguard and Pembroke Dock are a handy alternative.
Irish Ferries
08717 300 400
Stena Line
08447 707 070
Air
Transfers from the international gateways of Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham take less than two hours.
Manchester Airport
08712 710711
Liverpool John Lennon Airport
08715 218484
(Car rental is available at John Lennon Airport with Avis Car hire, more information can be found here)
Birmingham Airport
0871 2220072
Caernarfon Airport
01286 830800
AND WHEN YOU ARRIVE …
Car Parking
Gwynedd Council Car Parks
You can now pay to park at all Gwynedd car parks using the PayByPhone app on your phone. The PayByPhone app is available to download from the App Store or Google Play Store. The app is quick and easy to install and use, giving you the option to extend your parking sessions remotely. You can also locate car parks on the app before you set off, and once you’re parked, pin you location so you can easily find your car later. You can also still pay with cash at all Gwynedd car parks.
Eryri National Park Car Parks
Eryri National Park Parking App
National Trust Car Parks
Snowdon Paths and Sherpa Bus Service
Planning your transport and parking should form an essential part of your plan for climbing Snowdon. With over ½ a million visitors every year visiting the mountain, car parks can often be full in the warmer months by 7am! If you can we suggest coming during the week rather than on a weekend, and avoiding school holidays. Late September and early October can be a great time to visit.
You can view and download the Sherpa'r Wyddfa's timetable from their website.
Llŷn Fflecsi Coastal Bus (Service starts 1 April, 2023)
The Llŷn fflecsi operates Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The service offers a more flexible way of getting about by picking you up and dropping you off in the defined area, enabling you to get to and from beaches, campsites, tourist spots and do other local journeys.
fflecsi is designed to provide greater mobility in rural areas and help people make local journeys in a safe, flexible managed environment.
Bws Ogwen
An electric shuttle bus service from Bethesda to Llyn Ogwen. The bus will not run on Wednesdays but will run later on the weekend. Full details available on their Facebook page.
1Bws Ticket for Services in North Wales
Once passengers have bought their 1bws ticket from the bus driver on their first journey of the day, the ticket will then be valid for travel on every other bus they use that day across North Wales (conditions apply).
Explore Wales Pass
The Explore Wales Pass is just what it says – one ticket that gives you unlimited access to all of Wales’s mainline train services and almost every bus service.
North Wales Rover
North Wales Rover tickets allow travel for one day on buses and trains.
Traveline.cymru
Traveline Cymru aim to provide you with as much information as possible to help you to make your journey any time, any way to any place.
0800 464 00 00
The Wales Way
The Wales Way is a new family of three national routes that lead you into the heart of real Wales. The Coastal Way travels the west coast around Cardigan Bay, a 180-mile (290km) road-trip between the sea and mountains. The Cambrian Way crosses the spine of Wales for 185 miles (300km) between Llandudno and Cardiff, through National Parks and big green spaces. The North Wales Way leads 75 miles (120km) past mighty castles into the island of Anglesey.
Where to Stay
There's plenty of quality and award winning accommodation in the Eryri Snowdonia Mountains and Coast area which includes the Llŷn Peninsula, Eryri National Park and the Cambrian Coastline. You can find plenty to choose from, whether you’re looking for five star accommodation, or a grand country house, or perhaps a small cosy rural Inn, self catering cottage, or bed and breakfast. Or you can choose one of several caravan parks, bunkhouses, hostels, glamping sites and much more.
Llanberis
I stayed here for 2 nights, and it was charming! Owned and run by James and Amy, it’s obvious they have a real love for hosting and making every guest experience special. The lounge areas are particularly nice after a long day spent hiking, or exploring. With a lovely log burner to keep you warm, and drinks served on request. the breakfast also was scrummy!
There’s plenty of other options. Here’s a small selection in Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed, and Beddgelert.
The Royal Victoria Hotel - situated right by the start of the Llanberis path for Mount Snowdon!
YHA Snowdon Pen-Y-Pass - Hostel. Upscale hostel with coffee shop/cafe and restaurant.
Ty'n Rhos Country House - Luxury guesthouse with free breakfast and restaurant
Betws-Y-Coed
The Courthouse - Upscale guesthouse in Betws-Y-Coed with free parking
Royal Oak Hotel - Comfortable hotel with 2 restaurants and free breakfast
Beddgelert
Coach House - Guesthouse in Caernarfon, near Eryri National Park
Ty Afon, River House - Comfortable riverwalk country house near Eryri National Park
Part 2
Macmillan Cancer Support
MacMillan Cancer Support is a charity who’s purpose is to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer.
They work with partners to provide services for people living with cancer at every stage of their cancer experience. Their services include:
Expert cancer advice on their Macmillan Support Line, and in person at their Macmillan cancer centres at hospitals, hospices, libraries and other community locations.
Award-winning cancer booklets and website information
Trained health and social care professionals
Spaces for people to find peer support
Volunteer services
Macmillan Grants
Welfare benefits advice service
For find out more about MacMillan Cancer support please see their YouTube link.
MacMillan Mighty Hikes
Mighty Hikes are an award-winning series of marathon and half marathon hikes, taking place in some of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of the UK. Each hike has breathtaking routes, hidden highlights, and unique landmarks.
For details of the 2024 Mighty Hikes i’ve listed them on my UK Hiking Events page.
Day 1: Eyri (Snowdonia) MacMillan Mighty Hike
Event Details
The Eryri (Snowdonia) Mighty Hike is one of their more challenging routes, starting in Bangor before travelling along the beautiful Welsh shoreline and into Eryri National Park. It then heads up to the Nant Ffrancon pass where you’re surrounded by some of Eryri’s highest and most breathtaking mountains.
Date: 25 May 2024
Location: Starts in Bangor, finishing in Betws-y-Coed
Registration fee: £25
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance 26 miles
Elevation gain: 2,671 feet / 814 m
Route map
BLOG: Day 1: Eyri (Snowdonia) Mighty Hike
Pre-Event Registration
I eventually arrived at my accommodation in Bangor, The Management Centre, after a hefty 6 hour drive! Not much time to relax, as event registration was between 5-7pm, and i was keen to get there early.
I met up with Ann, who although we hadn’t met before, we had spoken via the Mighty Hikes FB group platform. Within 5 minutes we were exchanging banter, and it’s safe to say we hit it off straight away!
Having participated in dozens of events previously, although not with MacMillan, on arriving at the village showground, it all looked kind of familiar…with the tall banner flags waving in the foreboding sky, the large tents pitched in the showground, and the starting pen. We headed straight for the registration tent.
Registration done, and event pack collected, we had a look around, explored the merchandise (couldn’t resist buying a MacMillan buff!), and i started to chat with one of the event organisers, Ali, who was really nice, and seemed very interested in hearing all about my previous exploits, and of course Walking In Circles! Bless her! I would bump into Ali several times throughout the marathon tomorrow.
So, armed with my new buff, and event pack and bib, it was time to get a quick bite to eat before heading back to my hotel.
It’s always the same routine before an event…get your clothes out in a neat pile, check your backpack/trail-vest, pin the bib to your bag or shirt, leave out the water bottles ready for the morning, and finally set an alarm for stupid-o-clock!
After repeating the process, i was finally ready to call it a night, and hopefully get some much needed sleep! (never happens before an event!).
Event Day
After getting up at 4.45am, i was eventually in my car at 5.30am and heading towards the event village. It was a beautiful, clear sky, with the sun rising slowly, and the early morning mist creeping along the fields as i arrived.
It was still fairly quiet when i arrived. I was given the first start time of 6.50am, and not many people had arrived yet. Ali had told me the previous day, that around 700 people were taking part, in what was MacMillan’s first Snowdonia Mighty Hike. Typically their events attract between 1,000-1,500, some of the others many more.
So i had some time to grab a much needed cup of tea, and chat to some people who were now beginning to descend into the showground.
One of the main differences between this type of event to others i had previously done, is that everyone here was taking part either in memory or support of a loved one, or to simply raise money and awareness of MacMillan and the vital support they provide to cancer victims and their families. I felt privileged to be able to walk alongside some amazing people, who were about to do something incredible!
As i was standing outside of the starting pen, along cam Ann, dressed in an aptly green tutu! Although she had a later start time than myself, she was easily able to switch her time to mine. So i had a walking companion. Ann was walking on behalf of her close friend Jen, who sadly is currently sitting terminal with cancer. This would be an emotional experience for them both.
Ann wasn’t the only one donning a tutu…as along came this guy, Mark, proudly donning his very own green and white tutu! Mark had done many other Mighty Hikes before, and always wears it!
6.40am and the couple of hundred of us that had the 6.50am start time entered the starting pen, for the customary pep talk and warm up routine!
Start of the 42km Mighty Hike!
Bang on 6.50am the countdown began, and we all headed off! I quickly found myself towards the front of the pack, and settled into a fairly fast and steady pace. I wasn’t sure i’d be able to keep up this pace throughout the day, but i was happy enough for the moment.
The field began to stream out in a long line as we headed out of the village and into the rolling countryside.
It was an easy going start, with the path being fairly flat at this stage, as we walked alongside the Menai Straight to our left, under the Menai Bridge, and along Treborth Fields to our right.
An hour later, we came off of the path, and onto a main road. Crossing over, and turning right, the road began to climb steadily before we entered into a quieter country lane, that still ascended, but opened up some marvellous views of the surrounding countryside.
Rest Stop 1
It wasn’t long before we made it to our first rest stop, at 6 miles/10km. It was 8.30am. That seemed to go really quickly! As did the little time we spent there. Just 5 minutes, to grab some delicious fresh pineapple, and a banana!
We were back on the trail, and headed onto a lovely quiet lane, with fields on either side. The path then took us through a tunnel.
Emerging from the tunnel, and into the forest, we crossed a small bridge with a steady stream underneath, protected by a wall of trees as far as the eye could see.
5 minutes later, the views opened up once more, with the higher hills in the distance.
I was loving this! What a treat! This is what i was dreaming of when i first booked the challenge. Despite the pace i was walking, it was the opportunity to walk and take in the full beauty of Snowdonia National Park. I’m sure that without stopping to take as many photos as i did, and always seem to, i would have knocked off another 30 minutes from my overall time. But that didn’t matter to me.
The trail then entered a narrow track with a customary low stone wall on one side, before it wound itself down towards a river bank, and back up and onto a gravel track with large, almost mountain-like piles of slate.
11 miles / 17.5 kms in to the hike, and into a vast open valley, the hills beckoning on either side and far into the distance. It was stunning!
Rest Stop 2: Lunch (13 miles / 21km)
Just a little further down the track, the unmistakable sight of the green flags and tents marked the 2nd rest stop, which meant it was time for a spot of lunch, and a chance to sit for a short while.
Although it was nice to take the trail-vest off my back and grab some much needed refreshment, i didn’t want to rest for too long, being conscious of stiffening up otherwise. So after 15 minutes we were ready to head off for the 2nd half of the Mighty Hike!
We headed back onto the path in the valley, with Afon Ogwen running to our left, in the direction of the majestic Glyder Fawr (1,001m) in the distance.
At the far end of the valley, the path snaked left, leading us towards Ogwen, first past the Youth Hostel, and then onto what would turn out to be a long section of road that stretched alongside a vast lake, Llyn Ogwen.
It took a further 20 minutes of walking along this busy stretch of the A5 road, alongside the entire stretch of the lake, before we would turn right, in the direction towards Capel Curig.
It felt great to be off the road, and walking in amongst the green and rocky landscape once again. As i passed the 16 miles sign on my right, clearly not paying attention to what was on my left, i must have subconsciously reached out with my left hand for stability, when my hand got caught in some barbed wire! Ouch!
It could have been a lot worse, but i did have to stop to clean up my wound. That only served to give Ann some ammunition to poke fun at me…for the rest of the walk i may add! Serves me right! I’ll spare you the photo!
Continuing on, this was a lovely section of wide open fields, dissected with a narrow track running through the middle, and very easy going.
Towards the end of the track we pass the 19 miles sign, perched in a lone tree.
Rest stop 3: Capel Curig
The path eventually gave way to a road, that led into Capel Curig, and the 3rd and last rest stop before our final destination in Betws-y-Coed.
Time for some more fresh fruit, top up my water supply, and have a stretch. My legs were beginning to feel a bit tight, and i knew what was coming…a nice big hill straight from the rest stop!
So, feeling refreshed and ready to set off once more, we headed out of the rest stop, and up the aforementioned hill.
To be honest, it wasn’t as bad as it looked, and once at the top, the views were incredible! This section marked what was to come, and what i had been looking forward to all day - the walk towards Betws-y-Coed. From previous visits here, the forests, rapid streams and waterfalls are simply stunning!
But first the views from the top of the hill…
A little further along the path descended towards the forest, which felt great to be in the shade of the trees, and the ground so soft underfoot.
As we headed down and down through the woods, the scenery was just amazing. Even passing a stone wall covered in moss i thought looked magical!
As Ann and i walked a little further, memory of this place came flooding back…below i could see and hear the rapid flow of the river, and i remembered that i had once taken my children here gorge walking. If only we would pass Swallow Falls…my wish was granted!
You can see a video ‘short’ i took of the falls on my YouTube channel here
Our walk continued to trail down through the forest, alongside the river. It was perhaps my favourite part of the entire challenge!
Eventually, the path led us out of the forest and into Betws-y-Coed. Although sad to be leaving behind the beauty of the forest and river, my Mighty hike was almost over, and that was a comforting thought!
Just a short stroll from here towards the finish line on the village green,
After 8hrs 40mins of hiking 26 miles / 42 km, my Mighty Hike was complete!
After feasting on fish and chips, it was time for a well-earned pint at the local pub - proudly showing off my medal!
Summary: Day 1 - My YouTube Video
What an epic way of seeing Snowdonia National Park! I hope you enjoyed reading all about my mighty hike, and likewise hope the photos do it justice.
If you’re thirsty for some more, then i created a YouTube video of my Eyri (Snowdonia) Mighty Hike.
Now let’s see what happened on Day 2 of my Snowdonia adventure, when i hiked up Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)!
Part 3: Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)
Introduction to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is the highest mountain in Wales and England, and one of the most famous and recognisable landmarks. Standing tall over the village of Llanberis, Snowdon is a part of a close-knit family of jagged peaks and can offer views of Snowdonia, Anglesey, Pembrokeshire and Ireland.
Routes up Snowdon
There are 6 different routes you can choose from to conquer this 1,085 metre (3,560 feet) giant, which are…
Llanberis Path
Pyg Track
Miners’ Track
Watkin Path
Rhyd-Ddu Path
Snowdon Ranger Path
Below you'll find information on the different routes, transport, and mountain guides.
Llanberis Path
The Llanberis Path is the easiest and longest of the six main paths up to the summit of Snowdon. Originally, tourists were carried up this path on ponies and mules, and to this day it continues to be a pony path.
Known as the ‘tourist track’, the Llanberis Path is the least challenging route up Snowdon. It offers a relatively gentle ascent, making it accessible to a wide range of walkers.
Distance: 9 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 975m (3,199 ft)
Difficulty type: Hard/Strenuous
Time: Approx 7 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Far end of Victoria Terrace, Llanberis, off the A4086
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Numerous car parks in Llanberis (LL55 4TD)
Sherpa Bus Stop: Llanberis Interchange
Pyg Track
The origin of the Pyg Track name remains a bit mysterious, with no definitive answer. However, there are a couple of theories:
Bwich y Moch (Pigs’ Pass): Some believe that the Pyg Track was named after the pass it leads through, known as Bwlch y Moch (translated as “Pigs Pass”). The path sometimes is spelled as the Pig Track.
Miners and Pyg: Another possibility is that the name comes from miners who used the path to transport ‘pyg’, which refers to black tar. They carried this substance to the copper mines on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
Regardless of its origin, the Pyg Track remains a rugged and challenging route up Snowdon, attracting adventurous walkers seeking stunning views and a memorable experience!
Distance: 7 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 723m (2,372 ft)
Difficulty type: Hard/Strenuous
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display but you must pre-book a parking space from 23 March, 2024. If the car park is full and you are keen to walk from Pen-y-Pass you can use the Sherpa'r Wyddfa Park and Ride Service running from Nant Peris and Llanberis car parks.
Sherpa Bus Stop: Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Miners Track
Following the opening of the Llanberis pass in 1832, the Miners Path was built to carry copper from the Britannia Copper Works near Llyn Glaslyn to Pen-y-Pass, where it was then transported to Caernarfon. The mining came to an end in 1916, remains from the work can still be seen on the path to this day.
Initially, the Miners’ Track offers relatively flat sections, making it accessible for walkers of varying abilities. As you progress, it joins the Pyg Track and the Llanberis Path near Glaslyn, where the ascent becomes steeper.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 723m (2,372 ft)
Difficulty type: Hard/Strenuous
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display but you must pre-book a parking space from 23 March, 2024. If the car park is full and you are keen to walk from Pen-y-Pass you can use the Sherpa'r Wyddfa Park and Ride Service running from Nant Peris and Llanberis car parks.
Sherpa Bus Stop: Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Watkin Path
This path was named after Sir Edward Watkin, Liberal Member of Parliament and a railway entrepreneur. The trail follows an old copper mining path before utilising natural features to access the summit. It was the first designated footpath in Great Britain at the turn of the 20th Century.
The Watkin Path is a particularly challenging route to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). It starts just a few metres above sea level and offers the biggest vertical ascent gain to the peak. Sections of steep and loose scree make the final approach demanding!
Walkers considering their first hike up Yr Wyddfa might benefit from trying alternative paths.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 1,015m (3,330 ft)
Difficulty type: Hard/Strenuous
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start an Finish: Pont Bethania Bridge Car Park, Nant Gwynant, off the A498 (LL55 4NL / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display Pont Bethania Bridge Car Park (LL55 4NL / what3words)
Sherpa Bus Stop: Nant Gwynant Car Park
Rhyd-Ddu Path
This path used to be known as the Beddgelert Path since it was from this village that walkers started their journey to the summit. It’s one of the traditional routes leading up to the summit of Snowdon.
Whilst the Rhyd-Ddu Path is not overly difficult, some sections near the summit involve narrow and rocky paths with steep slopes. Extreme care is necessary in these areas, especially during icy or winter conditions.
Only experienced walkers with specialised equipment should venture beyond this point.
Distance: 8.5 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 895m (2,936 ft)
Difficulty type: Hard/Strenuous
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Rhyd Ddu Car Park (LL54 6TN / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display Rhyd Ddu Car Park (LL54 6TN / what3words)
Sherpa Bus Stop: End of Rhyd Ddu Car Park
Snowdon Ranger Path
The Snowdon Ranger Path is one of the quieter routes on Snowdon, offering a less crowded and more serene ascent. The path begins near the ‘Snowdon Ranger’ youth hostel, near Llyn Cwellyn. John Morton the self proclaimed 'Snowdon Ranger' used the path to guide Victorian tourists to the summit. He also opened a tavern where the youth hostel site stands today, and called it the ‘Snowdon Ranger Inn’.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil way to reach the top of Snowdon, then the Snowdon Ranger Path awaits!
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 936m (3,071 ft)
Difficulty type: Hard/Strenuous
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Llyn Cwellyn Car Park, off the A4085 (LL54 7YT / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display Llyn Cwellyn Car Park ( LL54 7YT / what3words)
Sherpa Bus Stop: Llyn Cwellyn Car Park
Preparation and hiking gear
Courtesy of Visit Snowdonia
Plan your route carefully before you set off by choosing a route that suits the fitness level of everybody in your group, not just your own. We recommend the Llanberis path if this is your first time climbing Snowdon. Reaching the summit is only half the battle so be vigilant as you descend the mountain, as you will become tired and are more likely to slip or trip at this point.
Keep to your planned route at all times and don’t follow others ahead of you – they may be taking a much more challenging and dangerous route than you. The biggest cause of mountain rescue incidents on Snowdon is of people getting lost, so make sure you take a good map. We recommend the Snowdon Map and Guide, which can be purchased at Pen-y-Pass as well as at Betws-y-Coed and Beddgelert Tourist Information Centres.
Wear comfortable, ankle-supporting walking boots and suitable clothing. The terrain can be uneven and the weather unpredictable. You'll need a waterproof and windproof jacket and over trousers. In wintry conditions you’ll need to take extra clothing such as a thermal base layer, fleece jacket, gloves and a hat. Often in winter the mountain can only be climbed using an ice-axe and crampons.
Carry a rucksack that can accommodate plenty of food and drink. It’s important to maintain your energy levels, as walking can be hard work. Remember that Hafod Eryri – the summit building may be closed at certain times of year. During the summer, make sure you carry extra water and sunscreen, as there is little shade to be found in the mountains.
Carry the right equipment. Make sure you pack an extra layer of clothing as temperatures can plummet high up in the peaks. It’s vital to carry a torch, compass, map, whistle, first aid kit and mobile phone, but remember – you’re not guaranteed a signal on the mountain so don’t rely on your phone if you get into difficulty.
Check the weather forecast before you set out and if the weather deteriorates, turn back. Conditions on the mountain can change quickly with fierce winds, low clouds and freezing temperatures making visibility and walking impossible. Visit the Met Office website for a detailed weather forecast before you set out. In winter you will also need to check the snow and ground conditions.
Tell someone reliable about your plans, which route you’re taking and what time you expect to return, so they can raise the alarm if you don’t make it back by your given time. Remember to let them know if your plans change at all.
Adventure Smart Wales
Adventure Smart Wales has been developed in partnership by the many organisations who want people to enjoy the great Welsh outdoors safely. They’ve put together a few simple things to consider to help your day stay great and ensure that, at the end of the day, you travel home safely, looking forward to your next adventure. #BeAdventureSmart
Map: My route for Pyg Track and Miners Path
You can download my OS Maps route from here
Alternatively this one is available on AllTrails
BLOG: Day 2: Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)
Getting there
I had made the sensible decision to pre-book a car space at the Pen-y-Pass car park a couple of months prior to embarking on my Snowdonia adventure. Space are limited, and pre-booking is compulsory if you wish to park there. It cost me £20 for 8 hours, which is more than enough time (i was being cautious!).
Please see my previous advice about alternative parking and bus services to Pen-y-Pass, if you wish to hike up Snowdon via the Pyg Track or Miners Path.
As you can see, the weather wasn’t ideal! It was raining quite heavily. I had checked the weather predictions for the summit, and so i knew that there would be very poor visibility at the summit, even if it stopped raining!
Although disappointed at the prospect of yet another hike up Snowdon with no reward of an epic view at the top, i was still excited to be hiking up this magnificent mountain once again.
Start
So around 09.10am on a wet and dreary Sunday morning, i set off, keen to loosen up my tired, aching legs from my marathon hike the day before!
I began my climb, nice and steadily on the Pyg Track.
Despite it being a Bank Holiday in the UK, given the weather it wasn’t a surprise their weren’t too many people hiking up this route. I was happy for that, as it seemed for now at least, i had the mountain to myself!
Very shortly into the walk, the path makes way for a stone staircase, with large lumps of rock perched around.
The walk is slow and steady, as the track continues to climb, with the occasional bit of careful manoeuvring up and over rocks, and across pools of shallow puddles.
Eventually i reach a crossroads of sorts, where the path splits. Left takes you towards Craig Fach (609m), and then onto Carreg Gwalch (545m), before returning back to the start. Right, you have 2 choices…an immediate almost back double but steeply uphill towards Crib Goch (923m), or simply right on the flat path continuing on the Pyg Track. It’s well marked.
For anyone who fancies a bit of scrambling up Crib Goch, then take a look at this video, presented by Trail Magazine’s Live for the Outdoors, and the British Mountaineering Council (BMC).
My path today was the Pyg Track, so i continued on my way, and over the stile.
Over the stile, towards my left below the low hanging mist and cloud, i could just make out the edge of Llyn Llydaw, a vast lake, that i would be walking along much later on today. For now, the view wasn’t so great.
But the path here was easy, and with hardly anyone around still, i was enjoying the peace and quiet, alone with my thoughts.
As the track continues to snake its way up and around the mountainside, i came to a section with some large slabs of rocks, with a steady flow of water making its way down. I recall the last time i was here with friends, where we were being battered with side winds exceeding 50-60 mph! today, thankfully, there was little wind!
The rain had stopped now, and i could begin to see breaks in the cloud. Not enough to clear the thick cloud way up higher towards the summit, but i was happy nonetheless to be free of the rain. If it cleared some more, i would be treated on my way back down to some spectacular views of Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw! Time would tell.
For now, the path continued to rise, gently at first, before reaching some trickier scree in which i had to scramble a little to push myself up and over.
The Pyg Track then merges with the Miners Path, as it continues to climb higher and higher. More and more walkers now appear from every direction.
I come to the section aptly called the Zig-Zags, first passing a low wall with a long base in which you could rest and take in the view (if there was one).
A few minutes later, after a bit of a climb, the path becomes extremely narrow, with a ledge that takes some careful foot placement, and a touch of wall-hugging for those in need!
5 minutes later, a final hard push up over some deep steps, and i’m onto the Ridge. Wow, it’s noticeably colder up here…its’ not called the ridge for nothing! with no protection from the elements, the temperature really drops, and with the cloud cover, it adds an eerie feel to it.
Reaching the Ridge from the Pyg Track / Miners Path
The ridge path changes as you get closer to the summit, with a series of steps.
Despite the cold and poor visibility, i was relieved to be close to the summit. Although now, as multiple paths merge with the ridge, and with the train that comes up from Llanberis, there would be scores of people no doubt queueing for their customary summit photo opportunities.
I wasn’t wrong in my thinking!
and as i made my way up those infamous last steps towards the summit, a train had indeed pulled in, and more and more people steadily arrived…
After a short wait, it was my turn to grab my well-earned summit photos.
Then i couldn’t resist braving the cold, to show off my Walking in Circles attire! Man, that was a stupid idea!
The Descent: The Miners Path
Feeling cold, but delighted in having reached the summit, it was time to head back down. I would have made a stop in Hafod Eryri (the mountain cafe), but had been told it wasn’t open on a Sunday. So i quickly made my way back along the Ridge, and back down the steps i had climbed up a short while earlier.
I later bumped into some young chaps, who informed me they had a lovely cup of tea in Hafod Eryri! Damn!
On the way up Snowdon, i had eaten some snacks, i.e. cereal bars and fruit. But having made it back down to the wall with the sort of seating ledge i passed on my way up, i made a short pit stop. I was hungry! Time for a sandwich, and of course some cake!
By now, the rain had all gone, and the skies began to clear. It seemed my dreams had come true for some spectacular views of Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw.
Although it’s very steep and tricky in places as you descend, and can be excruciating on the knees, this is why i chose the Miners Path for my descent!
How stunning! I continued to walk slowly downwards towards Glaslyn, pausing from time to time to just take it all in.
As i continued, hundreds of people it seemed were passing me as they were making their way up. The Bank Holiday had brought in coach loads of tourists, most of whom quite clearly had no idea what they were embarking on! You should have seen some of their attire and choice of footwear!
quietly smiling to myself, i made my way to the foot of the path at Glaslyn, and stopped for a while by the waters edge.
Reluctantly it was time to move on. I still had a fair way to go, but with Llyn Llydaw yet to come!
The path becomes harder to navigate, as its made up of rocks and slabs. Each step needing concentration.
But the views of Llyn Llydaw are just beautiful!
A little further i come to an old derelict mining building on the shore of Llyn Llydaw. There once was a storehouse for the ore at Pen-y-Pass, and the Pyg Track is thought to be the route the miners took the ore to the store to be dressed.
The Miners Path is flat and very easy going now. It continues to meander around Llyn Llydaw on my right.
I’m getting closer now to the finish. Perhaps 30 minutes, with just a few more twists and turns. It’s a lovely peaceful stretch that leads you home.
And finally, the Pen-y-Pass car park, and youth hostel comes into view.
Finally, i reach the gate at the bottom, and enter the car park. Mount Snowdon via the Pyg Track and Miners Path nailed!
Summary: Day 2 - My YouTube video
Wow! What a great adventure! I’ve hiked this route several times, but every time it’s such a thrilling experience. I may not be so lucky with getting the clear skies with the epic views i seem to see others posting on Insta, but it never takes away the enjoyment i get from hiking up this beautiful mountain. If you’ve never hiked up Mount Snowdon, I hope this will inspire you to visit Snowdonia National Park, and experience this epic mountain and indeed the surrounding area of natural beauty for yourself.
If you’d like to see highlights of my hike up Snowdon, then check out this video on my YouTube Channel.