Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, is the objective of this walk. This route is the easiest way to Snowdon's summit. Starting in Llanberis, it must be remembered this walk is a serious mountain expedition so you should go fully prepared.
A
Llanberis walk
posted on 04/07/16 by Walking Britain. Last update : 08/08/16
Description
(S/E) The start of this walk is the Snowdon Mountain Railway Station in Llanberis (Grid ref. SH 582 598). Walk south along the main road and take the first road on your right. This leads you past some cottages/houses and the start of the ascent to the summit. The road turns south and shortly after you take the signed path on the left (Grid ref. SH 582 590).
(1) Follow this broad path as it climbs steadily. At this stage the summit (still out of sight) seems a long way off but the gradient is not too taxing and you make steady progress. Passing through a short tunnel under the railway you reach Halfway Station. The ascent continues, steepening somewhat just before Clogwyn Station where you cross to the other side of the track via an underbridge. You are now three-quarters of the way to the top and the next section seems uninteresting as you climb more steeply than the railway to reach the top of the Pyg Track.
(2) The top is now in sight and all that remains is the easy final section to the summit cairn. On most days you will not be alone and there is usually a bustling atmosphere as people enjoy the view.
(3) To return to the start retrace your steps making sure you keep the railway on your left as far as Clogwyn Station, on your right until Halfway Station and on your left again for the remainder of the route. Refreshments can be obtained at the Summit when trains are operating. In winter extra care is needed as two or three sections of the route are subject to icing turning a straightforward summer route into a more dangerous proposition(S/E).
Waypoints
- S/E : km 0 - alt. 117 m - Snowdon Mountain Railway Station
- 1 : km 1.1 - alt. 232 m - Take the signed path on the left
- 2 : km 6.02 - alt. 959 m - Final section
- 3 : km 7.07 - alt. 1,051 m - Snowdon Mountain
- S/E : km 14.04 - alt. 119 m
Useful Information
The summit of Snowdon is a magnet for visitors. Some arrive by train from Llanberis whilst others reach the summit the hard way having walked their way to the top. There are a number of routes that lead to the summit of Snowdon and this route, although not the shortest, might be described as one of the easiest as it involved good clear paths and a steady ascent. Despite its relative ease, you should still ensure you are well equipped with good footwear, adequate food and drinks plus clothing to cater for worsening weather conditions.
Always stay careful and alert while following a route. Visorando and the author of this walk cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident during this route.
Reviews and comments
Clarity of route description
4 / 5
Clarity of route map
4 / 5
Walk interest
4 / 5
Date of walk : 14/09/20
Clarity of route description : ★★★☆☆ Average
Clarity of route map : ★★★☆☆ Average
Walk interest : ★★★☆☆ Average
The surface of this walk makes it quite difficult. There is a lot of loose stone and some large steps. It’s more difficult getting down than going up. I looked at other routes from the top and the tracks looked a lot easier under foot and would take one of these if I was to climb Snowdon again. Spoke to locals that agree with my comments and say this is not the easiest path.
Date of walk : 08/02/18
Clarity of route description : ★★★★★ Very good
Clarity of route map : ★★★★★ Very good
Walk interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Did this walk on the way to a wedding in Aberaeron Left Scotland on the Thu. Stayed overnight in Llanberis and did Snowdon on the Friday before travelling down on the Friday for Wedding on the Saturday. The weather was Snowing high winds but we hit an opening of decent weather on the Friday morning so decided to go for it, weather and visibility good up to 2000feet then it clagged in and heavy snow and ice. Water bottle and my sandwiches froze even in my rucksack !! Stayed on the summit for about 30 secs to take a picture then descended to below the clouds before eating sarnies. The route map was good and kept us honest. Even though we ascended via the tourist path. In those conditions the last 1000 feet of ascent or so warranted full kit. A good reminder to anyone that even tourist paths in winter can be treacherous. Overall I saw enough of Snowdonia to know I'll be back down there sometime.
