SH6255 : Crib Goch from the Pyg Track

Crib Goch

923m Elevation
66m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH6255 : Crib Goch from the Pyg Track

Eirian Evans Photo source

Explore routes near Crib Goch

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track

12.3 km ~5h 30m Hard

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Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy from LLanuwchllyn

17.5 km ~9h Moderate

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Cadair Idris - Pony Path

9 km ~3h Hard

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

The Classic Crib Goch Traverse via Pyg Track

This popular route starts from the Pen-y-Pass car park, following the Pyg Track until the junction for Crib Goch. From here, ascend steeply to the knife-edge ridge, tackling the exhilarating scramble with care. After crossing the ridge, continue to Garnedd Ugain and summit Snowdon. Descend via the Llanberis Path for a more gradual return to Pen-y-Pass.

10.5 km ~6 hours Challenging

Crib Goch via Miners’ Track Loop

Begin from Pen-y-Pass on the Miners’ Track, enjoying a gentle start past Llyn Llydaw. At the base of Crib Goch's eastern ridge, ascend steeply to the ridge. Traverse the thrilling knife-edge, then continue to Garnedd Ugain and Snowdon. For the return, descend via the Pyg Track back to Pen-y-Pass.

11 km ~6.5 hours Challenging

Crib Goch and Snowdon Horseshoe

This iconic route begins at Pen-y-Pass and follows the Pyg Track to the Crib Goch turn-off. After crossing the ridge, continue to Garnedd Ugain and Snowdon’s summit. From here, descend along the Watkin Path to Bwlch y Saethau, before ascending Y Lliwedd and completing the horseshoe back to Pen-y-Pass.

12 km ~7 hours Very Challenging

Crib Goch via North Ridge

For a quieter alternative, start from the Cromlech Boulders in the Llanberis Pass and ascend the North Ridge of Crib Goch. This route involves a steep and rough scramble to join the main ridge. Traverse Crib Goch, continue to Garnedd Ugain and Snowdon, and descend via the Pyg Track to Pen-y-Pass.

9 km ~6 hours Very Challenging

Crib Goch from Nant Peris via Cwm Glas

Start in Nant Peris and ascend through the scenic Cwm Glas valley. The path leads to the base of Crib Goch’s east ridge. Scramble up to the ridge, traverse its length, and continue to Garnedd Ugain and Snowdon. Descend via the Pyg Track to Pen-y-Pass, then take a bus or walk back to Nant Peris.

13 km ~7.5 hours Very Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Furth Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain

Elevation

923m

3,028 ft

Prominence

66m

Coordinates

53.0761, -4.0552

SH624551

OS Map

115

Explorer: OL17W

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent rocky outcrop with a large stone cairn, which serves as a handy marker for those navigating the stunning but sometimes treacherous terrain.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and steep with exposed sections offering plenty of opportunities for scrambling.

Crib Goch is primarily composed of volcanic rock, particularly rhyolite, which gives its steep and craggy appearance. The rugged terrain features glacially carved valleys and sharp ridges, a favourite playground for geologists and climbers alike.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, there's a breathtaking panorama of Snowdon and the surrounding peaks, along with Llyn Glaslyn and the expansive landscape of North Wales.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Crib Goch' translates to 'Red Ridge' in Welsh, likely referring to the reddish hue of the rocks and its prominent ridge line.

Historical Significance

Crib Goch has been a popular climbing destination for many years, serving as a key route for hikers attempting to summit Snowdon via the 'Crib Goch Ridge'.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Pen y Pass car park, which is often full, so arrive early or consider using public transport.

Public Transport

Buses operate from nearby towns such as Llanberis, providing access to Pen y Pass.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities are at Pen y Pass, including a café and toilets that can be a life-saver before you embark on your adventure.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops, loose rocks, unpredictable weather, and potentially tricky scrambling sections. Always keep your wits about you, especially on the ridge!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Crib Goch?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Crib Goch through the maps

Are there other walkers around Crib Goch?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Crib Goch search or of course create your own walk for Crib Goch

Can I organise a walk to Crib Goch?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Crib Goch.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Crib Goch?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Crib Goch here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SH624551

View on OpenStreetMap

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