Over the last weekend, my partner and I embarked on an exhilarating hike. I'd like to share my research and experience with all of you. We ascended via the Llanberis path and descended using the Pyg & Miners Track. The journey took approximately 5 hours, including several breaks to capture the stunning scenery. We have a moderate level of fitness.
The Llanberis path is the easiest path as it runs alongside the Snowdon Mountain Railway on a gradual incline, but it is also the longest. On the other hand the Pyg Track is the shortest of the paths but does contain a rather steep climb with some scrambling towards the end. It’s all swings and roundabouts!
The ascent up Snowdon typically takes a full day. Besides the top cafe, there are no facilities along the way, so it's important to be prepared. Wales' weather is unpredictable, so even on sunny days, pack waterproofs as conditions can change rapidly.
Here’s a little kit list to get you started:
What To Expect
Although, I would say you need a good base level of fitness before you heads up Snowdon as it does take an average of 6 hours to get up and down again. There are number of paths, however we have explored 3 different paths and will share about them in this blog.The Llanberis path is the easiest path as it runs alongside the Snowdon Mountain Railway on a gradual incline, but it is also the longest. On the other hand the Pyg Track is the shortest of the paths but does contain a rather steep climb with some scrambling towards the end. It’s all swings and roundabouts!
About Paths
There are seven main paths up to the top of Snowdon:- The Llanberis path (The easy one) ...
- The Ranger Path (The quiet one) ...
- The Miners path (The scenic one) ...
- The Pyg Track (The quick one) ...
- Rhyd Ddu Path (The secret one) ...
- The Watkin Path (The hard one) ...
- Crib Goch ( The spicy one)
Llanberis Path
- Start: Victoria Terrace, near the Snowdon Mountain Railway Station, LL55 4DT
- Parking: Any car park in Llanberis so charges may vary
- Distance: 9 miles / 14.5 km (total)
Pyg Track
- Start: Pen-Y-Pass, LL55 4NU
- Parking: £10/day at Pen-Y-Pass Car Park or £4/day just down the hill (can either walk or get a £2 shuttle taxi up to the start)
- Distance: 7 miles / 11 km (total)
Miners’ Track
- Start: Pen-Y-Pass, LL55 4NU
- Parking: As for the Pyg Track, £10/day at Pen-Y-Pass Car Park or £4/day just down the hill (then walk/£2 shuttle taxi)
- Distance: 8 miles / 13 km (total)
What To Pack
The ascent up Snowdon typically takes a full day. Besides the top cafe, there are no facilities along the way, so it's important to be prepared. Wales' weather is unpredictable, so even on sunny days, pack waterproofs as conditions can change rapidly.
Here’s a little kit list to get you started:
- Footwear: Comfortable hiking shoes or boots / sturdy trainers
- Socks: Comfy hiking socks
- Bottoms: Gym leggings / walking trousers
- Clothing: Layers - lightweight fleece, base layer, t-shirts, etc.
- Outerwear: Waterproof coat
- Headwear: Baseball cap and beanie hat (it can get quite chilly at the summit!)
- Bag: Day backpack (consider a bumbag for essentials too)
- Hydration and Fuel: Lots of water and hiking snacks
- First Aid and Protection: Blister plasters, sun cream, lip balm, etc.
- Essentials: Money – there is a cafe at the top where you can buy souvenirs, a warming drink, or a well-earned snack!
- Accessories: Camera- the views up here are insanely beautiful, you’ll definitely want to take some snaps!
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