Snowdon Summit (Yr Wyddfa)
Snowdon Summit (Yr Wyddfa)
Highlight • Summit
Hiking
5.0
(1138)
Mountain biking
4.8
(26)
Running
5.0
(15)
Mountaineering
5.0
(9)
Snowdon Summit, known in Welsh as Yr Wyddfa, stands proudly at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Wales and the highest point in the British Isles south of the Scottish Highlands. Located within the stunning Snowdonia National Park (Eryri National Park) in North Wales, this iconic peak is the heart of the Snowdon Massif, a dramatic landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic activity and extensive glaciation.
What truly captivates visitors to Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
January 6, 2021
Hiking
August 3, 2017
Hiking
April 26, 2018
Hiking
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Routes here
Best routes to Snowdon Summit (Yr Wyddfa)
4.9
(768)
8,487
hikers
12.3km
04:56
680m
690m
4.8
(111)
1,472
hikers
13.4km
05:17
980m
980m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(134)
1,431
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,080 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
yes
Dog Friendly
yes
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The Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, and Miners' Track are generally the most popular routes. For a quieter experience, especially on the south side of the mountain, consider the Rhyd-Ddu Path or the Snowdon Ranger Path. The South Ridge is also noted as a fine, less-trafficked route.
The six main paths vary significantly in difficulty. The Llanberis Path is often considered the most straightforward, while routes like the Pyg Track and Miners' Track offer a classic approach into the natural amphitheatre. The Snowdon Horseshoe, which includes scrambling over Crib Goch, is a challenging ridge walk suitable only for experienced mountaineers, especially in winter conditions.
Snowdon can be hiked in winter, but it becomes a serious mountaineering undertaking. Winter conditions demand proper equipment, including ice axe, crampons, and appropriate winter clothing. It should only be attempted by equipped and experienced mountaineers due to rapidly changing weather and hazardous terrain.
Most hikes to Snowdon are achievable by the whole family, with the Llanberis Path often recommended for its more gradual incline. However, always assess your family's fitness and the weather conditions before setting out. The Snowdon Mountain Railway also offers an accessible way for families to reach the summit without the strenuous climb.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the walking paths to Snowdon, but they must be kept on a lead, especially due to livestock (sheep and wild mountain goats) and ground-nesting birds. Be aware that some sections can be rocky and challenging for paws, and ensure your dog is fit enough for the ascent and descent.
Parking at key trailheads like Pen-y-Pass is expensive and fills up very early, especially during peak season. It's strongly recommended to arrive before mid-morning or consider using public transport. A Snowdon Shuttle bus service operates from Llanberis, connecting to popular starting points. Check local transport schedules in advance.
Yes, the summit features Hafod Eryri, a visitor centre with a cafe. It offers tea, coffee, and other refreshments, along with merchandise. The cafe is typically open during the Snowdon Mountain Railway's operating season, generally from May to late October. It's a great spot for a quick coffee or a beer after your climb.
The duration varies significantly depending on the chosen route and your fitness level. For example, the Llanberis Path can take 5-7 hours for a round trip, while more challenging routes like the Pyg Track might be quicker but require more effort. Always factor in time for breaks, enjoying the views, and potential weather changes.
Snowdon's landscape is a result of ancient volcanic activity and extensive glaciation. You can observe its pyramidal peak, sharp ridges known as arêtes (like Crib Goch and Y Lliwedd), and rounded valleys called cwms. Fossils, including shell fragments, can even be found in the bedrock at the summit, indicating its underwater origins from the Ordovician Period.
No, there are no permits required to hike Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa). It is freely accessible to the public. However, if you plan to park at certain popular trailheads like Pen-y-Pass, you will need to pay for parking, which can be expensive and requires pre-booking during peak times.
Beyond the summit itself, the views of the Snowdon Horseshoe, encompassing the dramatic arêtes of Crib Goch and Y Lliwedd, are particularly memorable. The natural amphitheatre holding Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn also offers incredible vistas. On a clear day, you can see parts of England, Ireland, and the Isle of Man from various points along the trails.