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Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa

1,085m Elevation
1,039m Prominence
Wales Country
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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.

Llanberis Path

The Llanberis Path is the most popular and straightforward route to the summit of Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa). Starting from the village of Llanberis, this trail follows a well-maintained track with a steady gradient, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. It is ideal for beginners or those looking for a less challenging ascent.

14.5 km ~5.5 hours Moderate

Pyg Track

The Pyg Track begins at Pen-y-Pass and is one of the most iconic routes to the summit. It provides a mix of rocky paths and scenic views, including vistas of the glacial Cwm Dyli and the dramatic ridgelines of Snowdon. The Pyg Track is slightly more challenging than the Llanberis Path but is well-marked and highly rewarding.

11 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Miners' Track

The Miners' Track also starts at Pen-y-Pass and initially follows a relatively flat course past beautiful mountain lakes. It then ascends steeply to join the Pyg Track for the final stretch to the summit. This route combines historical interest with stunning scenery, as it was originally used to transport copper from the mines.

13 km ~5 hours Moderate

Watkin Path

The Watkin Path is one of the most challenging routes to the summit, starting near Plas Gwynant. It passes through lush woodlands and waterfalls before ascending steeply to the ridge. The final section is a rocky scramble, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.

13 km ~6 hours Hard

Rhyd Ddu Path

Starting from the village of Rhyd Ddu, this quieter route offers a peaceful ascent to the summit. The trail follows grassy slopes and ridges, providing spectacular views of the Nantlle Ridge and surrounding landscapes. The Rhyd Ddu Path is less crowded compared to other routes, making it a great choice for solitude seekers.

12 km ~5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Furth Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

1,085m

3,560 ft

Prominence

1,039m

Coordinates

53.0685, -4.0762

SH609543

OS Map

115

Explorer: OL17W

At the Summit

The summit is crowned by a large stone cairn and a trig point, with breathtaking views and a cafe nearby (weather permitting).

Terrain & Geology

Varied including rocky paths grassy slopes and occasional boggy areas.

Snowdon is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically andesite, formed from ancient lava flows. The surrounding terrain features glacially-carved valleys and polished cliffs, telling tales of past ice ages.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the rugged peaks of the Carneddau, the estuary of the Menai Strait, and, on clear days, the Isle of Anglesey and even Ireland.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Yr Wyddfa translates to 'the tomb' in Welsh, perhaps reflective of the mountain's majestic, imposing nature.

Historical Significance

As the highest peak in England and Wales, Snowdon holds not only geographical significance but also cultural importance, being a site of pilgrimage for many walkers.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Llanberis offers ample parking options, but they fill up quickly during peak season, so arrive early!

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from towns like Caernarfon and Bangor to Llanberis. The Snowdon Mountain Railway also offers a unique trip up the mountain.

Nearby Facilities

Cafes and toilets are located at the summit and along the Llanberis Path. The local village offers plenty of refueling options after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Changeable weather conditions, rocky terrain, and steep drops. Always be prepared for rain or sun alike!

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 Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa through the maps

Are there other walkers around Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa?

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 Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa search or of course create your own walk for Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa

Can I organise a walk to Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa?

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 Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa.

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 Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa?

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 Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa here

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

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SH609543

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