Climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)

Overview

Yr Wyddfa, also known as Mount Snowdon, is a mountain in the Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park). It is the highest mountain in Wales and the highest mountain in the British Isles, south of Scotland. It has an elevation of 3,560 feet (1,085 metres) above sea level.

Yr Wyddfa is free to climb and is a must-do for outdoor adventurers visiting the Eryri National Park. There are several different routes to the summit, with some easier routes that are suitable for families and beginners, as well as more challenging routes for seasoned hikers.

If you don’t fancy walking it, there’s also a train that you can take to the top. The train stops at Hafod Eryri, the highest visitor centre in Wales. Here, you can learn more about the national park, grab a bite to eat at the café, or buy a souvenir in the gift shop.

Can a beginner climb Snowdon?

Yes, even if you haven’t got much hiking experience, you can climb Yr Wyddfa. The Llanberis Path is probably the easiest route as it has a gentle gradient and a well-maintained path.

However, in challenging weather conditions, even this path can become dangerous, so be sure to check the forecast before you leave for your walk. It’s important to be prepared for your hike and bring maps, plenty of water, extra clothing layers, and a first aid kit with you.

How long does it take to walk up Snowdon?

It can take anywhere between four and seven hours to climb Yr Wyddfa, depending on the route you take, your fitness level, and the weather conditions.

Can I climb Snowdon in trainers?

Although it is technically possible to climb Yr Wyddfa in trainers, it isn’t recommended. Good hiking boots will give you grip, ankle support, and durability, helping you to traverse the various terrains on the mountain.

Do you have to pay to walk up Snowdon?

No – it is free to walk up Yr Wyddfa. The paths are open 24 hours a day, and everyone is welcome.

What is the best time of year to climb Snowdon?

You are likely to find the best weather conditions for climbing Yr Wyddfa from the beginning of May until the end of October.

Be sure to check at the reception of YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass for the weather forecast before you set off. You can still experience mist, rain, and storms during the summer months, which can make walking difficult.

The summer holidays and weekends are likely to be busier on the trails.

Is there a café on Snowdon?

Yes, there is a café at the visitor centre at the top of Yr Wyddfa. There is also a café halfway up the Llanberis Path, which is a great place to take a pitstop and rest your legs.

If you’d rather not visit the café, why not make use of the well-equipped self-catering kitchen at YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass? Prepare some sandwiches and snacks to enjoy while you’re on the trail.

Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) routes

There are six main routes to the summit of Yr Wyddfa:

Llanberis path

About: The easiest and longest path. Suitable for families and beginners
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 kilometres) out and back
Time: Around 7 hours
Start: Victoria Terrace, Llanberis

Miners’ Track

About: Popular path with a gentle start and then a challenging and steep ascent over loose rock
Distance: 8 miles (12.9 kilometres) out and back
Time: Around 6 hours
Start: Pen-y-Pass car park

Pyg Track

About: One of the shortest routes to the summit, but also one of the most challenging.
Distance: 7 miles (11.3 kilometres) out and back
Time: Around 6 hours
Start: Pen-y-Pass car park

Watkin Path

About: Particularly challenging and not suitable for first timers
Distance: 8 miles (12.9 kilometres) out and back
Time: Around 6 hours
Start: Pont Bethania Bridge Car Park, Nant Gwynant

Rhyd Ddu Path

About: A steep ascent over rocky terrain and narrow paths with steep slopes below
Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometres) out and back
Time: Around 6 hours
Start: Rhyd Ddu Car Park

Snowdon Ranger

About: Suitable for experienced walkers with a gradual climb before a steep ascent
Distance: 8 miles (12.9 kilometres) out and back
Time: Around 6 hours
Start: Llyn Cwellyn Car Park

The car park at YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass is the access point to the Miners’ and the Pyg Track, so these two are the most accessible paths from the hostel.

How to get to Yr Wyddfa from YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass

If you want to try the Miners’ Track or the Pyg Track, then you’re in luck – they start right from the car park at the Youth Hostel! For the other paths, you can drive to the starting points.

There is also the Sherpa’r Wyddfa Park and Ride Service, which runs from Nant Peris and Llanberis car parks.