Yr Wyddfa, still widely known by its English name Snowdon, is the highest mountain in Wales, rising to 1,085 metres (3,560 feet) above sea level in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. It is one of the UK’s most popular mountains, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy its spectacular scenery, walking routes for all abilities and panoramic summit views.
Although many people associate Yr Wyddfa with hiking, there are several ways to experience Wales’ highest mountain. Six well-established footpaths lead to the summit, ranging from the relatively gentle Llanberis Path to more demanding routes such as the Watkin Path and the Pyg Track. Visitors who prefer not to walk can enjoy the spectacular journey on the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway, which has carried passengers towards the summit since 1896.
On a clear day, the views from the summit stretch across much of North Wales, including the Glyderau, the Carneddau, the Llŷn Peninsula and the island of Anglesey. Under exceptional conditions it is even possible to see Ireland across the Irish Sea. Reaching the summit, whether on foot or by train, is one of the highlights of a visit to North Wales.
Yr Wyddfa is also steeped in Welsh history and legend. According to mythology, the mountain is the final resting place of the giant Rhitta Gawr, who was defeated by King Arthur. Its Welsh name, Yr Wyddfa, is often translated as “the burial mound”, reflecting this ancient legend. The mountain has also played an important role in Welsh culture for centuries and remains one of the country’s best-known natural landmarks.
Despite its popularity, visitors should not underestimate the mountain. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even during summer, and the summit is often considerably colder and windier than the surrounding valleys. Good footwear, suitable clothing and careful planning are essential for anyone intending to walk to the top.
Our recommendation: If you’re planning to climb Yr Wyddfa, start as early as possible, particularly during weekends and the summer months when the most popular routes become very busy. Even if you don’t intend to reach the summit, the surrounding valleys, lakes and viewpoints offer some of the finest scenery in Wales.
Google map 4.8/5
The Best Ways to Experience Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Llanberis Path
The Llanberis Path is the longest and most gradual route to the summit, making it the most popular choice for first-time visitors and families with older children. Beginning in the village of Llanberis, the path follows the route of the Snowdon Mountain Railway for much of the climb, providing steady gradients and excellent mountain views throughout the ascent.
Although often described as the easiest route, the walk is still around 14.5 kilometres (9 miles) return and involves more than 900 metres of climbing, so a reasonable level of fitness is still required. Most walkers allow between six and eight hours for the return journey.
Our recommendation: If it’s your first time climbing Yr Wyddfa, the Llanberis Path is an excellent choice. Start early in the morning to avoid the busiest part of the day and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
Google map – Start of Llanberis Path to Snowdon Summit
Pyg Track
The Pyg Track is one of the most scenic routes to the summit, offering spectacular views across Llyn Llydaw, Glaslyn and the surrounding mountain ranges. Starting from Pen-y-Pass, it is shorter than the Llanberis Path but considerably steeper and more demanding, with sections of rough, rocky terrain.
The route eventually joins the Miners’ Track before making the final climb to the summit. It is particularly popular with experienced walkers looking for a more adventurous ascent without the technical challenges of the Snowdon Horseshoe.
Our recommendation: Parking at Pen-y-Pass is extremely limited and often fully booked well in advance during summer. Consider using the Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus service if you can’t secure a parking space.
Google map – Pyg Track Trailhead (Pen y Pass Warden Centre)
Miners’ Track
Also beginning at Pen-y-Pass, the Miners’ Track follows a relatively gentle route past the beautiful mountain lakes of Llyn Teyrn, Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn before tackling a steep final climb to the summit. Originally built to serve the old copper mines, it offers some of the finest mountain scenery anywhere in Eryri National Park.
The combination of easy walking during the first half and a much steeper finish makes it a popular option for walkers looking for a varied route.
Our recommendation: If you’re unsure whether to choose the Pyg Track or Miners’ Track, many walkers climb one and descend the other, creating one of the classic circular routes on Yr Wyddfa.
Google map – Miners’ Track Trailhead (Pen y Pass Warden Centre)
Snowdon Mountain Railway
For visitors who would rather enjoy the scenery without the climb, the Snowdon Mountain Railway offers one of Britain’s most memorable rail journeys. Operating from Llanberis since 1896, the narrow-gauge railway climbs almost to the summit, passing waterfalls, rocky cliffs and dramatic mountain scenery along the way.
The journey takes around one hour each way, with trains stopping at the summit when weather conditions allow. During poor weather, services may terminate at Clogwyn Station lower down the mountain. The railway usually operates from spring until autumn, although services are weather dependent.
Our recommendation: Book tickets well in advance during school holidays and summer, as trains often sell out several weeks ahead. Morning departures also provide a better chance of clear summit views.
Official website: https://snowdonrailway.co.uk
Google map 4.5/5 Snowdon Mountain Railway Station (Llanberis – Base)
Google map 4.5/5 Snowdon Mountain Railway Station (Clogwyn)
Google map 4.5/5 Snowdon Mountain Railway Station (Gorsaf Copa’r Wyddfa – Summit)
Watkin Path
The Watkin Path is the oldest recognised route to the summit of Yr Wyddfa and is often considered one of the most rewarding. Beginning in Nant Gwynant, it starts with a relatively gentle walk through woodland and past waterfalls before climbing steeply into the mountains. The final section is rocky and demanding, requiring care and a good level of fitness.
The route was officially opened by former Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone in 1892 and remains a favourite with experienced walkers looking for a quieter alternative to the more popular northern routes.
Our recommendation: Although the lower section is relatively easy, don’t underestimate the final climb. This route is best suited to experienced walkers with suitable equipment.
Google map – Watkin Path Trailhead (car park)
Snowdon Ranger Path
The Snowdon Ranger Path is one of the oldest routes to the summit, following a route believed to have been used for centuries. Starting near Llyn Cwellyn on the western side of the mountain, it provides a quieter alternative to the Llanberis Path while still offering a straightforward ascent with excellent views.
The route takes its name from the nearby Snowdon Ranger Youth Hostel, which occupies the site of an historic inn once visited by Victorian mountaineers.
Our recommendation: If you’re looking for a less crowded route that doesn’t involve scrambling, the Snowdon Ranger Path is an excellent choice.
Google map – Snowdon Ranger Path Trailhead (car park)
Rhyd Ddu Path
Approaching Yr Wyddfa from the west, the Rhyd Ddu Path is one of the quieter routes to the summit and offers impressive views across the Nantlle Ridge and surrounding mountains. Although shorter than the Llanberis Path, it includes several steeper sections and a narrow ridge near the summit that requires care, particularly in poor weather.
The peaceful surroundings and smaller number of walkers make it popular with those seeking a more tranquil mountain experience.
Our recommendation: This is one of the quieter summit routes, making it a good option during busy summer weekends if you’re comfortable with a slightly more challenging walk.
Google map – Rhyd Ddu Path Trailhead (car park)
Compare the Walking Routes
| Route | Best for | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Llanberis Path | First-time walkers | Moderate |
| Pyg Track | Scenic views | Moderate–Hard |
| Miners’ Track | Mountain lakes | Moderate |
| Snowdon Ranger | Fewer crowds | Moderate |
| Rhyd Ddu Path | Quieter route | Moderate–Hard |
| Watkin Path | Experienced hikers | Hard |
Hafod Eryri Summit Visitor Centre
Standing just below the summit, Hafod Eryri is the highest visitor centre in Wales. Opened in 2009, the modern building provides shelter, refreshments and toilet facilities during the main visitor season, although it only opens when the Snowdon Mountain Railway is operating and weather conditions allow.
Large windows offer impressive views across the surrounding mountains, while the café provides a welcome place to rest after reaching the summit.
Our recommendation: Don’t rely on the café being open. Weather conditions can result in unexpected closures, so always carry enough food and water for your walk.
Google map – Hafod Eryri 4.2/5
Snowdon Horseshoe
The Snowdon Horseshoe is regarded as one of Britain’s classic mountain walks. Rather than following a single path to the summit, this spectacular circular route links Crib Goch, Garnedd Ugain (Crib y Ddysgl), Yr Wyddfa and Y Lliwedd before returning to Pen-y-Pass.
The route includes the famous Crib Goch ridge, a spectacular knife-edge arête that requires scrambling and a good head for heights. It is recommended only for experienced and confident mountain walkers in good weather.
Our recommendation: The Snowdon Horseshoe is one of the UK’s finest mountain routes, but it should not be attempted without appropriate experience. If you’re uncertain, choose one of the established walking paths instead.
Google map – Snowdon Horseshoe Trailhead (Pen y Pass Warden Centre)
When to Visit Yr Wyddfa
Yr Wyddfa can be climbed throughout the year, but conditions vary considerably with the seasons. Late spring and early autumn are often the best times to visit, offering longer daylight hours and generally quieter trails than the height of summer. July and August are the busiest months, with the summit and popular paths becoming particularly crowded during weekends and school holidays.
Winter transforms the mountain into a much more serious environment. Snow and ice are common on the upper slopes, and appropriate winter equipment and mountaineering experience are essential.
Parking & Getting to the Walking Routes
Parking is one of the biggest challenges when visiting Yr Wyddfa, particularly during weekends, bank holidays and the summer months.
Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Pen-y-Pass is the starting point for both the Pyg Track and Miners’ Track, making it one of the busiest car parks in North Wales.
Peak season (generally April to November)
- Parking must be booked in advance.
- Spaces often sell out several weeks ahead, especially for weekends and school holidays.
- Book through the official Eryri National Park parking system before travelling.
https://eryri.gov.wales/visit/snowdon/pen-y-pass-car-park/
Winter (generally November to March)
- The car park usually operates on a pay-and-display basis when demand is lower.
- However, spaces remain limited and can still fill quickly on fine weekends.
Our Recommendation
If Pen-y-Pass is fully booked, don’t drive there hoping to find a space. Instead, park at Nant Peris and use the Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus service, which runs regularly between Llanberis, Nant Peris, Pen-y-Pass and several other starting points around the mountain. For most visitors, this is the easiest and least stressful way to access the popular walking routes.
Official websites:
https://eryri.gov.wales/visit/snowdon/pen-y-pass-car-park/
https://www.sherparwyddfa.wales/index.shtml
Google map Pen-y-Pass car park
Google map Nant Peris Park and Ride
Safety on the Mountain
Although Yr Wyddfa is one of Britain’s most accessible mountains, it should never be underestimated. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with low cloud, strong winds and heavy rain developing quickly even on warm summer days.
Before setting out:
- Wear suitable walking boots with good grip.
- Carry waterproof clothing and warm layers.
- Take plenty of food and water.
- Check the weather forecast before starting.
- Allow plenty of daylight for your walk.
- Keep to the marked paths wherever possible.
- Tell someone where you’re going if walking alone.
Mobile phone coverage is available across much of the mountain but should never be relied upon in an emergency.
Our Recommendation
Whether you choose to reach the summit on foot or by railway, Yr Wyddfa is one of the highlights of any visit to North Wales. First-time walkers will generally find the Llanberis Path the most straightforward option, while more experienced hikers may prefer the Pyg Track, Miners’ Track or the quieter Rhyd Ddu and Snowdon Ranger paths.
If you’re not planning to climb the mountain, don’t feel you’re missing out. A journey on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, a visit to Llanberis or simply enjoying the views from Llyn Padarn and the Llanberis Pass still provides a memorable introduction to Wales’ highest mountain.