Mount Snowdon - Snowdonia National Park

Hiking Up Mount Snowdon: A Down-to-Earth Guide to Wales’ Highest Peak

Mount Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, is the highest mountain in Wales and one of the UK’s most beloved hiking spots. Rising up to 1,085 meters (3,560 feet), it’s right in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, drawing in outdoor enthusiasts from all over. I recently took on Snowdon, and it’s got everything: jaw-dropping views, a solid workout, and a true sense of achievement when you reach the summit. If you're planning on tackling it, here’s everything you need to know—from how to get there to where to eat, where to stay, and the best times to go.

Starting Point and How to Get There

There are several ways up Snowdon, but the Llanberis Path is the most popular and considered the easiest route. This path starts in the village of Llanberis, which serves as Snowdon’s base camp. Llanberis is buzzing with shops, cafes, and facilities to gear up before your climb or grab a post-hike snack.

Getting to Llanberis is a breeze:

By Car: If you’re driving, it’s about a 2-hour trip from Liverpool or Manchester and around 4 hours from London. There are a few car parks in Llanberis, like the Snowdon Mountain Railway car park, but these fill up quickly—arrive early if you can.
By Train: The closest train station is in Bangor, around 30 minutes away by bus or taxi. Direct trains from London Euston to Bangor take about 3.5 hours. From Bangor, it’s easy to catch a bus or hop in a taxi to Llanberis.
By Bus: Regular buses connect Bangor to Llanberis, and it’s a beautiful ride that takes around 45 minutes, offering some great views along the way.

The Walk: Distance and What to Expect

The Llanberis Path is about 9 miles (14.5 kilometers) round trip. It’s the longest way up Snowdon, but it’s got the gentlest slope, making it a top choice if you’re new to mountain hiking or just want a more relaxed ascent. The path follows the Snowdon Mountain Railway line much of the way, which means fantastic views over the valley as you go.

Snowdon is a popular mountain for good reason. As one hiker put it, “The summit feels like the top of the world, with panoramic views that make every step worth it.”

Ascent and Descent

Starting from Llanberis, you’ll be ascending about 975 meters (3,199 feet). It’s a steady climb that gets a bit steeper the higher you go, but it’s not too technical. The route is well-marked, but remember, this is still a mountain, and the weather can flip in an instant—good boots and layers are a must!

Coming back down the same path can be a bit tough on the knees, so take it easy and enjoy the scenery.

Other Routes to the Top

If you’re looking for more of a challenge or a different view, there are several other routes up Snowdon:

Pyg Track and Miners’ Track: Both start from Pen-y-Pass and are steeper and shorter than Llanberis Path. The Pyg Track, in particular, is a favorite for its dramatic views over the lakes. “The Pyg Track is tough but rewarding. The views over Glaslyn are just unreal,” a fellow hiker told me.
Watkin Path: The most challenging route, starting lower than the others and involving a steep scramble near the top. It’s a serious workout, but the scenery is unbeatable. “Watkin Path is no joke—steep, rough, but you get some of the best scenery on Snowdon,” said another adventurer.

For those who want to experience Snowdon without the climb, the Snowdon Mountain Railway is a brilliant option. It runs from Llanberis to just below the summit, offering a unique and scenic ride up the mountain. "Taking the train is a treat, especially when you want to see the views without the sweat," shared a passenger.

Where to Stay and Eat in Llanberis

After a long day on Snowdon, you’ll be looking for a comfy spot to rest and some good food to refuel. Here are some top picks in and around Llanberis:

Places to Stay:

The Royal Victoria Hotel: Right at the base of Snowdon, this hotel is super convenient and offers comfy rooms and a restaurant with stunning views—perfect for hikers.
YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass: A popular choice with hikers. The hostel offers both dorm and private rooms and has a friendly atmosphere where you can swap stories with other adventurers.
Dolafon Guest House: A lovely B&B in the heart of Llanberis, known for its warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts—exactly what you need before or after a day on the mountain.

Places to Eat:

Pete’s Eats Café: This place is legendary among hikers. It’s known for its massive portions and great prices—a perfect post-hike pit stop.
The Heights: A laid-back pub and kitchen in the center of Llanberis, offering a range of pub classics and a solid selection of drinks. A great place to unwind after your trek.
Pantri: A cozy café with a good selection of homemade cakes, sandwiches, and hot meals—ideal for a quick snack or a more relaxed bite.

Wildlife and Local Legends

Snowdon isn’t just about the climb—it’s rich with wildlife and myths. As you make your way up, you might spot peregrine falcons, raven, or even wild goats. The mountain is also home to the Snowdon lily, a rare plant that only grows here in the UK.

Snowdon is steeped in legend too. Local lore says the summit is the resting place of Rhitta Gawr, a giant defeated by King Arthur. Its Welsh name, Yr Wyddfa, translates to "the tumulus," referring to a burial mound.

Best Time to Hike Snowdon

The best time to hike Snowdon is between May and October. During these months, you’ll likely get better weather, longer days, and a shot at some clear views from the summit. But keep in mind that this is also the busiest time, so if you’re not a fan of crowds, start early in the day.

Spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are perfect if you want a quieter experience. "The mountain has moods," one local said. "One moment, it’s clear and bright; the next, it’s wrapped in mist. It’s what makes every hike up Snowdon unique." The weather can be unpredictable, so always pack layers and waterproofs.

Wrapping It Up

Climbing Snowdon is more than just a walk; it’s a journey through stunning scenery, rich history, and a good bit of challenge. Whether you’re on the Llanberis Path for a leisurely hike or tackling the tougher Watkin Path, there’s an adventure for everyone. Plan ahead, respect the mountain, and soak up every moment—you won’t forget it! As one hiker summed it up: "When the clouds part, and you see that 360-degree view, it’s like nothing else. The whole of Snowdonia seems to spread out below you like a map."