Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via Pyg Track

Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is easily the most famous mountain in Wales as well as being the highest mountain in the country also. Standing at 1,085m Snowdon is also one of the mountains that make up the National Three Peaks Challenge. There are six main routes up to the summit of Snowdon and this route is following the scenic and popular Pyg Track which starts at Pen y Pass. It is worth noting this mountain is a huge tourist attraction and for that reason is busy pretty much year-round especially in the summer months.  

Useful information for Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via Pyg Track

• The route starts at Pen y Pass where there is a car park available, however, this gets booked up quickly so it is recommended to book your parking pass in advance (available between April and November). One of the most popular ways to get to the start of the hike is to use the Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus service. This means you can park at Nant Peris, Llanberis or Caernarfon and make use of the bus service to get you to the start of the hike.
• What3Words for the Nant Peris car park are: stall.seagull.verbs
• This is a ‘there and back’ route
• The total elevation gain for this route up the Pyg Track is approximately 726m.
• The terrain for Pyg Track is mixed, mainly uneven, rocky with lose stones and some scrambling will be required (mostly higher up). As always ensure you have the correct footwear for mountain hiking.
• Public toilet facilities are available at the Pen y Pass car park which is at the start of the hike. There are also public toilets at the car park in Nant Peris.

Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via Pyg Track route description

Stage 1 – Pen y Pass car park to Crib Goch split section

As discussed previously there are a number of routes up to the summit of Snowdon — the Pyg Track is the shortest ascent and might well be one of the most scenic. It is worth noting that the Pyg Track is also the starting point for the popular Crib Goch scramble route — you do not want to get these mixed up if you are not an experienced walker so be sure to pay attention to route markings.

The path leading from the car park is uneven and rugged but is clear enough to follow. It is fairly narrow and with this being a busy route you might find it a bit slow going as people try to get past each other. Soon enough Lake Llyn Llydaw will come into view –it is also at this point that the path splits and there is a fork off to the right which will take you up to Crib Goch.

Stage 2 – Meeting the Miners Track

The second stage of the hike is less steep than the initial ascent. The path takes you past the lakes and offers some great views. As the path continues to climb it eventually merges with the Miners’ Track – this path comes from lower down than the Pyg Track. The Miners’ Track is also a popular option for people doing this route on the descent.

Stage 3 – All roads lead to the summit

This last section of the hike is the steepest section. The path itself zig zags here and is mainly loose and rocky underfoot so be careful and take your time. As you continue your steep ascent towards the summit the Pyg Track merges with the Llanberis Path. From here it is a short walk to the summit. There is the Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre at the summit where you can purchase snacks and refreshments – again be warned this can be very busy at peak times. To return to the start of the walk opted to descend via the Miners’ Track.

Peaks first, then pints

Upon returning to Pen y Pass car park you will be glad to know there is a licensed cafe where you can purchase refreshments. A perfect opportunity to take in the views and have a good chat about the days hike.

⚠️ Safety Warning – Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) Pyg Track
The Pyg track leads along the foothills of Crib Goch. The route up Crib Goch and along the ridge is extremely dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced mountain walkers.

Crib Goch is a 500-metre knife-edge ridge with no escape route. Even in ideal weather conditions, Crib Goch is a difficult undertaking. Crib Goch is a serious mountaineering undertaking in wet weather, wind, snow, mist or ice.