Which Snowdon walking routes are right for you?

Snowdon in Snowdonia National Park is a spectacular mountain with outstanding panoramic views. However the views aren’t its only claim to fame. Snowdon is the highest mountain in England and Wales. Don’t panic about how to reach the summit though! There are many Snowdon walking routes that cater to different levels of walkers, from those who want to enjoy a leisurely ascent to experienced walkers who are keen for a challenge.

A range of routes to choose from which accommodate beginners, families and regular hill walkers

If you’re not an experienced hill walker or you want laidback routes that are suitable for families, Llanberis Path and the Snowdon Ranger Track are the best options, both offering an easy ascent to the top for relatively fit walkers. Other routes include the Rhyd Ddu Path, the PYG Track and the Miners Track. Many people choose to ascend via the PYG Track and then come down the Miners Track.  This route will suit most family members.

If you don’t feel queasy at the sight of great heights, you may want to go for the Snowdon Horseshoe which is best reserved for experienced hill walkers. One of the most difficult Snowdon walking routes is the Watkin Path. All of these Snowdon walking routes have awe-inspiring views so don’t forget a camera if you want to capture some memories!

Route lengths and choosing the optimum time of year to ascend Snowdon

The amount of time it takes you to make your ascent will depend on your experience and how fit you are, but as a guide the 7 mile long PYG Track, 8 mile Snowdon Ranger Track and 9 mile Llaberis Path should each take around 6 hours to complete roundtrip. To traverse the Watkin Path and return back is 8 miles, with a completion estimate of 7 hours. Six hours should be enough for the Rhyd Ddu Path, which measures 7.5 miles there and back. The 8-mile Miners Path should take you six hours to return to your starting point. The Snowdon Horseshoe route is around 7 miles and will also take 5 to 6 hours to finish.

There is often snow on Snowdon from October right through to summer. Therefore for the easiest ascent, it’s best to head up the mountain in summer.

Be prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment

When you are climbing Snowdon, it is very important to make sure you have the right clothing. You will need to wear good walking boots that support your ankles, as well as a jacket that is both windproof and waterproof. Windproof and waterproof trousers are a good idea too. During winter, make sure you have thermal layers under your outerwear as well as a warm hat and gloves. You should also have an ice axe and crampons to assist with walking during snowy conditions.

Bring a backpack that contains a good supply of food and refreshing drinks. Hiking can be strenuous and it is important to stay hydrated by drinking sufficient amounts of water. It’s useful to have extra clothing in your backpack in case the weather worsens. If you’re climbing in summer, pack sunscreen in your backpack too. You should have a map and compass with you as well as a torch, medical supplies in the form of a first aid kit, a whistle, and a fully charged mobile phone. It’s important to note that you may not always get phone reception when on the mountain, so let friends and family know what route you plan on taking.  

Health and safety considerations and tips for beginner hikers

It’s vital to plan your route before you start your ascent and not to veer from it. The route should be appropriate for everyone’s fitness level in your party. It’s important not to abandon your route and decide to follow people ahead of you because they may be climbing a different or significantly harder route to your own. Make sure you know how to use all your equipment (such as the compass) and how to read a map before you begin the hike.

Ensure that you’ve checked the weather forecasts before starting to climb. If the weather starts to change for the worse, go back down the mountain. You may be tempted to continue but it can get incredibly cold and windy on the mountain. In addition, clouds can descend quickly, making it very difficult if not completely impossible to see where you’re walking. Tell somebody who is not going on the hike with you what route you are going up and when you should have completed it. When you get back, remember to tell that individual you have returned safely. If that person doesn’t hear from you by the time you should have descended Snowdon, he or she can seek assistance in locating you.

If you’re going to make your ascent in winter, you should begin early in the morning because there will be fewer hours of daylight than in summer and no matter which of the Snowdon walking routes you take, you’ll be out for several hours.

Bear in mind that the Public Footpath No. 13 within the Arthog community is temporarily unavailable for use. Use has been banned since March 11th, 2013 and the path will remain out of bounds for about 6 months from this date.

Nearby accommodation with incredible views

Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Snowdonia National Park by staying in accommodation that showcases the striking scenery of this amazing park. There are numerous campsites within driving distance of Snowdon. There are also many campsites and caravan parks outside of the national park near other attractions in north Wales, such as the Llyn Peninsula.

Stay safe, stay alert and enjoy some of the best views that Wales has to offer

Snowdon and the surrounding landscape offer incredible views. Choosing the Snowdon ascent route that is right for you is the best way to enjoy these views to the max. Be prepared, stay alert while walking and stick to your planned route and you are sure to have an amazing outdoor experience.