Hiking Snowdon
Hiking Snowdon provides a great challenge and even greater views, with multiple paths to pick from to ascend to the summit (and back again).
Hiking Snowdon
https://www.contours.co.uk/hiking-snowdon
by Gosia Giernalczyk
As much as I like walking along the coast, through forests and in valleys, I also enjoy walking up mountains and hills. Mountainous hiking gives me a sense of achievement as I push my limits to the fullest.
A few years back I managed to climb Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike, the highest peaks of Scotland and England. Both hiking trips were very enjoyable. With time marching on, this year I decided to travel to Wales to go up Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) the highest mountain in Wales.
Of the UK's three highest peaks, Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, the last one is the most popular and attracts the largest number of visitors every year. They ascend to the summit on foot, by bicycle or by train.
I was lucky that my friend also wanted to climb Snowdon this year, so we managed to find suitable dates for both of us and started our trip from Derbyshire to Wales on a Friday afternoon in May 2024.
The weather forecast was looking good, but I packed a full variation of clothes to be prepared for different weather scenarios.
We spent some time looking for suitable accommodation, and after considering a few different options, we decided to stay in Y Felinheli.
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I was very surprised by how quiet and relaxing the village was, and the sunset we witnessed there was one of the most beautiful sunsets I have seen in a long time.
We enjoyed a delicious meal at a local pub that overlooked the harbour, making it a pleasant and relaxing evening before our walk.
On Saturday morning we woke up early to travel to Llanberis and park there. For our ascent of Snowdon, we decided to take the Llanberis Path. The Llanberis Path is the longest trail up Snowdon at 9 miles (14.5km) long but its gradual climb makes it a popular route for first-time ascents of the mountain.
The temperature when we arrived was quite high for May. It was very warm, and on the path, there are not many places to take shelter in shade, so we took frequent breaks to drink water and rest a bit before carrying on uphill
I was very surprised by how many people had the same idea as us and decided to climb Snowdon on exactly the same day. Many folks were with their dogs, so I made a new furry friend at the beginning of the walk.
Snowdon Mountain Railway
Very frequently along the Llanberis Path, we could see the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which is 4.7 miles (7.5km) long and carries passengers from Llanberis to the summit of Snowdon. The tickets sell out very quickly, so if you want to get one, it’s a good idea to book well in advance.
After a few hours of hiking, we reached the top of Snowdon. The summit was very busy and full of fellow hikers who also wanted to take some photos at the peak.
As we were a bit tired at this stage, we decided to have something to eat and drink at Hafod Eryri, the summit building. It is the terminus for the Snowdon Mountain Railway, and the railway stops there.
Hafod Eryri offers a big selection of drinks, snacks and food. It is also possible to use the lavatories, buy some souvenirs, and read interesting information about the mountain and the national park.
Hafod Eryri Opening Times
Hafod Eryri is open daily from mid-May to the end of October, but only when the trains are running. It’s a good idea to keep that in mind and check before your hike. If the trains are not running, the facilities will not be available.
After using Hafod Eryri facilities, we spent some more time at Snowdon’s summit and then decided to head down the mountain.
For the way down, we decided to walk the Miners' Track, Llwybr y Mwynwyr. The path is 4.25 miles (6.8km) long and finishes at Pen y Pass. It was built to serve the Britannia Copper Mine.
The beginning of the route was very steep and rocky, so we went down very slowly and took some breaks along the way.
Along the track, we passed three beautiful lakes: Llyn Teyrn, Llyn Llydaw, and Glaslyn. The views were truly breathtaking.
The beginning of the walk down the Miners' Track was the hardest, but with time, the route grew easier to follow.
At the end of the route we found Caffi Gorphwysfa, which is open seasonally; access to toilets; and YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass, which is open all year around and has a café on site that is available to the public until late afternoon. We rested for some time and took a bus back to Llanberis to collect the car.
I enjoyed hiking Snowdon; it was one of my favourite days in 2024. The views were amazing, and I would like to climb Snowdon again in future.
Before planning any hiking trip, mountain climbs especially, it is important to check the weather forecast in advance. It is good to consider different route options and choose the most suitable on the day. Make sure to wear suitable clothes and boots, and to bring backup options in case the weather changes at height.
An essential kit list for mountain hiking should include:
As the weather can change very quickly at mountain heights — in one moment it can be warm and sunny and in the next windy and rainy — a good waterproof jacket is particularly useful to have on hand.
Keep in Mind
As much as going up a mountain can be tiring, it is good to remember to take your time when descending as well. Most injuries happen on the way down when our legs are tired, so being careful is essential. Extra amounts of water and snacks should be saved for the descent.
You can include an ascent of Snowdon on your long-distance hike in Snowdonia by booking the Snowdon Round Mountain Route. This circular trail is based off the brilliant Snowdonia Slate Trail, diverting into the heart of Eryri National Park to summit Wales' most famous mountain.
Find a walk along the Snowdon Round.
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