Welcome to the ultimate guide to conquering Wales’ highest peak. A snowdon hike offers some of the most breathtaking views in the United Kingdom, attracting thousands of adventurers each year. Standing at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet), Snowdon dominates the landscape of Snowdonia National Park in North Wales.
Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual walker looking for a challenge, hike snowdon adventures provide options for all abilities. The mountain’s diverse terrain, stunning scenery, and rich history make it one of the UK’s most popular hiking destinations.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning your journey, from selecting the right path to understanding how long your adventure might take. We’ll explore the various snowdon hike routes, discuss timing expectations, and provide essential tips to ensure your mountain experience is safe and memorable.
Mount Snowdon Overview
Mount Snowdon hike experiences offer something truly special in the British hiking landscape. As the highest mountain in Wales and England, Snowdon (or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) stands as a majestic natural monument with a distinctive pyramidal shape that can be seen for miles around.
The mountain features:
- Six main marked paths of varying difficulty
- A visitor center at the summit (Hafod Eryri)
- The Snowdon Mountain Railway for non-hikers
- Diverse ecosystems and wildlife
- Stunning lakes (including Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw)
- Rich geological features formed by volcanic activity
A snowdon mountain hike takes you through dramatic landscapes carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. The mountain’s slopes host rare Arctic-alpine plants that survived from this period, making it not just a physical challenge but also a place of significant ecological importance.
What makes a hike up snowdon particularly appealing is its accessibility. Despite being a serious mountain that demands respect, its well-maintained paths make it approachable for hikers with different experience levels, provided they come properly prepared.
Snowdon Hike Routes
The snowdon hike routes vary significantly in difficulty, length, and scenery. Each path offers a unique experience of the mountain, and choosing the right one is crucial for an enjoyable adventure.
Llanberis Path
The most popular and gentlest route, running parallel to the Snowdon Mountain Railway. While the longest at 9 miles (14.5 km) round trip, its gradual ascent makes it ideal for beginners.
Pyg Track
A moderate route starting from Pen-y-Pass car park. At 7 miles (11 km) round trip, it offers spectacular views of Snowdon’s horseshoe and the lakes below. The path is well-defined but steeper than Llanberis.
Miners’ Track
Beginning from the same location as the Pyg Track, this 8-mile (13 km) round trip path starts gently before becoming steeper as it joins the Pyg Track. It passes beautiful lakes and old mining works.
Watkin Path
Starting near Bethania, this challenging 8-mile (13 km) route has the greatest elevation gain. It features beautiful waterfalls and passes through old slate quarries, offering some of the most varied scenery.
Rhyd Ddu Path
A quieter 8.5-mile (13.5 km) route approaching from the west. Moderate in difficulty, it provides panoramic views and tends to be less crowded.
Snowdon Ranger Path
A 8-mile (13 km) historic route of moderate difficulty. Named after an early mountain guide, it offers a balanced hiking experience with good views throughout.
When planning your mount snowdon hike, consider your fitness level, experience, weather conditions, and the time you have available. For first-timers, the Llanberis Path is often recommended, while experienced hikers seeking a challenge might prefer the Watkin Path or the complete Snowdon Horseshoe route (which includes Crib Goch, a narrow and exposed ridge requiring scrambling skills).
Snowdon Hike Distance and Time
One of the most common questions from first-time visitors is “how long to hike snowdon?” The answer varies depending on several factors, including your chosen route, fitness level, weather conditions, and how many breaks you take along the way.
Typical Hiking Times by Route:
| Route | Distance (Round Trip) | Average Ascent Time | Average Descent Time | Total Snowdon Hike Time |
| Llanberis Path | 9 miles (14.5 km) | 3-4 hours | 2-3 hours | 5-7 hours |
| Pyg Track | 7 miles (11 km) | 2.5-3.5 hours | 2-2.5 hours | 4.5-6 hours |
| Miners’ Track | 8 miles (13 km) | 3-4 hours | 2-2.5 hours | 5-6.5 hours |
| Watkin Path | 8 miles (13 km) | 3.5-4.5 hours | 2.5-3 hours | 6-7.5 hours |
| Rhyd Ddu Path | 8.5 miles (13.5 km) | 3-4 hours | 2-3 hours | 5-7 hours |
| Snowdon Ranger | 8 miles (13 km) | 3-4 hours | 2-2.5 hours | 5-6.5 hours |
The question “how long does it take to hike snowdon?” also depends on your pace. A good rule of thumb is to calculate approximately 1 hour for every 3 miles of distance plus 1 hour for every 2,000 feet (610 meters) of ascent. For Snowdon, this means:
- Faster hikers: 4-5 hours round trip
- Average hikers: 5-7 hours round trip
- Slower hikers or those taking many photos: 7-9 hours round trip
The snowdon hike distance varies between 7-9 miles (11-14.5 km) round trip, depending on your chosen path. Remember that the how long is the hike up snowdon question isn’t just about distance—it’s also about elevation gain, which ranges from approximately 2,900 feet (885 meters) on the Llanberis Path to 3,380 feet (1,030 meters) on the Watkin Path.
For those wondering “how long is snowdon hike” in terms of time commitment, it’s best to plan for a full day out on the mountain. Start early (ideally before 9am) to avoid crowds at parking areas and to give yourself plenty of daylight hours. Even if you complete the hike faster than expected, having extra time allows for rest breaks and enjoying the summit views.
When considering “how long to hike up snowdon,” factor in an additional 30-60 minutes at the summit to rest, refuel, and appreciate the panoramic views (weather permitting). The visitor center at the top also provides refreshments during its operating season.
Best Time to Hike Snowdon
The best time to hike snowdon largely depends on your experience level and what kind of experience you’re seeking. While Snowdon can technically be hiked year-round, certain seasons offer more favorable conditions for different types of hikers.
Late Spring (May-June)
- Longer daylight hours (14-16 hours)
- Spring flowers blooming on lower slopes
- Moderately busy trails
- Weather becoming more stable
- Temperature range: 5-15°C (41-59°F)
Summer (July-August)
- Warmest temperatures: 10-20°C (50-68°F)
- Most stable weather (though rain is still common)
- Maximum daylight hours
- Busiest period with crowded paths
- Snowdon Mountain Railway operating at full capacity
- Summit visitor center open
Early Autumn (September-October)
- Beautiful autumn colors
- Fewer crowds after school holidays
- Still reasonable daylight hours
- Temperature range: 5-15°C (41-59°F)
- Increasing chance of mist and rain
Winter (November-April)
- Requires winter mountaineering skills and equipment
- Snow and ice on paths
- Short daylight hours (7-9 hours)
- Temperature range: -5-5°C (23-41°F)
- Mountain railway usually not operating
- Summit building closed
- Dramatically beautiful snow-covered landscapes
For most casual hikers, late spring through early autumn offers the most accessible experience. June and September are particularly good months, offering a balance between decent weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer season.
Weather considerations should always be paramount when planning your snowdon hike. The mountain creates its own microclimate, and conditions can change rapidly. On average, the summit experiences cloud cover for 75% of the year, and wind speeds can reach up to 150 mph during storms. The temperature at the summit is typically 10°C (18°F) cooler than at sea level.
Before embarking on your hike snowdon adventure, always check the mountain weather forecast specifically for Snowdonia. Resources like the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) provide detailed forecasts for the region. If severe weather is predicted, consider postponing your hike or choosing a lower-level walk in the area.
Preparation Tips for Your Snowdon Hike
Preparing properly for your snowdon hike can make the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a miserable (or even dangerous) experience. Here are essential preparations for tackling Wales’ highest peak:
Essential Equipment
- Hiking boots with ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Multiple layers of clothing (avoid cotton)
- Hat and gloves (even in summer)
- Backpack (30-35 liters)
- Water (at least 2 liters per person)
- Food and high-energy snacks
- First aid kit
- Map and compass (and the skills to use them)
- Mobile phone (fully charged)
- Headtorch with spare batteries
- Walking poles (optional but helpful)
Planning Your Journey
Before attempting your mount snowdon hike, ensure you:
- Research your chosen route thoroughly
- Check the specific weather forecast for Snowdonia
- Plan your starting time to allow completion in daylight
- Inform someone of your route and expected return time
- Consider parking arrangements (especially at Pen-y-Pass, which fills very early)
- Research public transport options if not driving
- Prepare alternative plans if conditions aren’t suitable
Physical Preparation
The physical demands of a hike up snowdon shouldn’t be underestimated. To prepare:
- Build up your fitness with regular cardio exercise
- Practice on smaller hills before attempting Snowdon
- Strengthen your legs with squats and lunges
- Break in your hiking boots before the big day
- Practice carrying your loaded backpack on training walks
Safety Considerations
Mountains demand respect, and Snowdon is no exception. Remember:
- Be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate
- Start early to avoid finishing in darkness
- Stay on marked paths unless you have advanced navigation skills
- Take special care on steep or exposed sections
- Carry emergency contact information
- Consider hiring a mountain guide if you’re inexperienced
Snowdon’s paths are graded from easy to very difficult. For a first-time snowdon mountain hike, consider the Llanberis Path or Ranger Path, which offer more gradual ascents. If you’re unsure about tackling the mountain independently, several reputable guiding companies offer led hikes with qualified mountain leaders.
When to Visit & Local Amenities
When to Visit
The timing of your snowdon hike can significantly impact your experience on the mountain. Consider these factors when planning:
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekdays offer much quieter trails compared to weekends. Saturday is typically the busiest day on the mountain.
- Time of Day: An early start (before 8am) provides cooler hiking conditions, better parking availability, and fewer crowds. Many experienced hikers begin at dawn.
- School Holidays: Expect significantly more visitors during UK school holidays, especially summer holidays (late July to early September) and bank holiday weekends.
- Seasonal Events: The annual Snowdon Race (usually in July) and various charity events can bring hundreds of additional people to certain routes.
For those wondering “how long to hike snowdon” in different seasons, allow extra time in winter conditions when paths may be icy or snow-covered. Conversely, in peak summer, popular routes can become congested at narrow points, adding to your overall snowdon hike time.
Local Facilities and Services
The villages surrounding Snowdon offer various amenities to support your hiking adventure:
Llanberis (north side)
- Numerous cafes, restaurants, and outdoor equipment shops
- The National Slate Museum
- Several accommodation options ranging from hostels to hotels
- Snowdon Mountain Railway station
- Paid parking areas and public toilets
- Mountain rescue team base
Beddgelert (south side)
- Charming village with pubs, cafes, and accommodation
- Access to the Rhyd Ddu path
- Limited parking
- Visitor information center
Pen-y-Pass
- YHA hostel with cafe
- Car park (expensive and fills very early)
- Starting point for Pyg Track and Miners’ Track
- Sherpa bus service connecting to other locations
Before embarking on your mount snowdon hike, consider staying in the area the night before to get an early start. Many hikers base themselves in Llanberis or Beddgelert, both of which offer accommodation ranging from campsites to bed and breakfasts and hotels.
The Snowdon Sherpa bus service connects the main villages and car parks around the mountain, offering a sustainable alternative to driving between different paths. This can be particularly useful for hikers planning linear routes rather than returning to their starting point.
Safety and Mountain Rescue Information
Mountain safety should be your primary concern when planning a snowdon hike. Despite being one of the UK’s most accessible mountains, Snowdon sees hundreds of rescue operations annually, many involving hikers who underestimated the challenge or came unprepared.
Weather Dangers
The weather on Snowdon can change dramatically within minutes:
- Temperature drops approximately 1°C for every 100m of ascent
- Wind speed can be double at the summit compared to the base
- Visibility can reduce to a few meters in cloud or fog
- Rain can make paths slippery and increase the risk of hypothermia
- Lightning strikes are a serious danger during thunderstorms
Always check the mountain-specific forecast before your hike up snowdon and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate. The Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) and Met Office mountain forecasts provide reliable information for Snowdonia.
Navigation Challenges
When asking “how long is the hike up snowdon,” many people fail to consider how navigation difficulties might extend their journey time:
- Paths can become difficult to follow in poor visibility
- Multiple intersecting paths can cause confusion
- Some sections have exposure to significant drops
- Winter conditions can obscure normal paths entirely
Even on well-marked routes, a map and compass are essential, along with the knowledge to use them. GPS devices or smartphone apps can be helpful backups but shouldn’t be your primary navigation method as batteries can fail in cold conditions.
Mountain Rescue Information
If you encounter an emergency during your snowdon mountain hike:
- Call 999 or 112
- Ask for POLICE, then MOUNTAIN RESCUE
- Provide your location as precisely as possible
- Describe the nature of the emergency
- Report how many people are in your group
- Stay where you are unless advised otherwise
The Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team handles most incidents on Snowdon. This dedicated group of volunteers responds to approximately 200 call-outs annually. While their service is free, consider making a donation to support their vital work.
Prevention Tips
The best mountain rescue is the one that never needs to happen:
- Never hike alone without informing someone of your route and expected return time
- Carry a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case
- Pack a whistle for emergency signaling (six blasts in one minute indicates distress)
- Bring a basic first aid kit and know how to use it
- Carry emergency high-energy food and extra water
- Include an emergency shelter or survival bag in your backpack
- Know your limitations and turn back before you’re exhausted
Remember that “how long to hike up snowdon” varies greatly based on conditions—always allow extra time and don’t push to reach the summit if weather worsens or daylight is running short.
Planning Your Snowdon Hiking Trip
Creating a comprehensive plan for your snowdon hike involves more than just choosing a route. Here’s how to put together a complete itinerary that ensures a memorable and safe experience.
Transportation to Snowdonia
Reaching Snowdon requires some planning, especially if you’re not driving:
- By Car: The A55 along North Wales coast connects to the A470 south toward Betws-y-Coed, then the A4086 to Llanberis or Pen-y-Pass. Parking is limited and expensive (£10-£18/day), particularly at Pen-y-Pass which often fills by 6:30am on weekends.
- By Public Transport: Trains run to Bangor, where you can connect to buses to Llanberis or other Snowdon villages. The Sherpa bus service links all major trailheads.
- Park and Ride: During peak season, consider using the park and ride facilities in Nant Peris or Llanberis to access Pen-y-Pass and other starting points.
Accommodation Options
Consider your accommodation based on your chosen snowdon hike routes:
- Llanberis: Most convenient for the Llanberis Path with numerous hotels, B&Bs, and hostels.
- Beddgelert: Charming village near the Rhyd Ddu Path with traditional accommodation.
- Pen-y-Pass: YHA hostel at the starting point for Pyg and Miners’ Tracks.
- Betws-y-Coed: Larger town with more accommodation options but requires a drive to trailheads.
- Camping: Several campsites around Snowdonia for budget-conscious hikers.
Booking accommodation well in advance is essential during summer months and weekends.
Multi-Day Itineraries
For those wondering “how long does it take to hike snowdon” as part of a longer trip, consider these itinerary ideas:
Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive and explore Llanberis or your chosen base
- Day 2: Complete your Snowdon hike (5-7 hours)
- Day 3: Enjoy a gentler walk around Llyn Padarn or visit local attractions
Extended 4-Day Trip
- Day 1: Arrive and explore local area
- Day 2: Acclimatize with a shorter walk such as Llyn Idwal circuit
- Day 3: Hike Snowdon via your chosen route
- Day 4: Rest day visiting attractions like Zip World or Portmeirion
Recommended Side Trips
While your mount snowdon hike may be the centerpiece of your visit, consider these nearby attractions:
- Llyn Padarn: Beautiful lake with water activities and lakeside walks
- National Slate Museum: Fascinating insight into the area’s industrial heritage
- Zip World: Adventure activities including the fastest zip line in the world
- Caernarfon Castle: Impressive medieval fortress
- Anglesey: Island with beautiful beaches just a short drive away
- Carneddau Range: Less crowded mountain range offering spectacular hiking
What to Pack Beyond Hiking Essentials
In addition to your hiking gear, consider packing:
- Swimming gear (for post-hike dips in mountain lakes)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Small towel
- Change of clothes and shoes for after your hike
- Local guidebook or flora/fauna identification guide
Remember that when considering how long is snowdon hike in your planning, you should allocate an entire day to the mountain experience, leaving time to enjoy the summit and recover afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Snowdon
How difficult is it to hike Snowdon?
The difficulty of a snowdon hike varies greatly depending on your chosen route. The Llanberis Path is considered the easiest, suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness. The Watkin Path and Crib Goch route are the most challenging, requiring experience and a head for heights. For most people with average fitness who choose an appropriate path, reaching the summit is an achievable challenge.
Can beginners hike Snowdon?
Yes, beginners can absolutely undertake a hike up snowdon if they choose the right path and conditions. The Llanberis Path is most suitable for first-timers, though it’s still a significant mountain walk. Beginners should go prepared with proper equipment, check weather forecasts, and consider going with more experienced hikers or a guide.
What should I wear to hike Snowdon?
For a mount snowdon hike, wear proper hiking boots with ankle support, multiple layers of moisture-wicking clothing (avoid cotton), and always carry waterproof jacket and trousers. Even in summer, bring a hat and gloves. Dress for changeable conditions—it’s better to carry extra layers than be caught unprepared.
How high is Snowdon?
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) stands at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Wales and England. While not extremely high by global standards, its location near the sea and changeable weather create conditions similar to much higher mountains.
Do I need a guide to hike Snowdon?
While not required, hiring a guide for your first snowdon mountain hike can enhance safety and enjoyment, especially in challenging conditions or if you’re inexperienced. Guides provide historical and geographical insights and ensure you stay on the correct path. Several local companies offer guided hikes at reasonable rates.
Is there a fee to hike Snowdon?
There is no fee to hike Snowdon itself—access to all paths is free. However, you’ll need to pay for parking (£10-£18 per day depending on the car park). If using the Snowdon Mountain Railway for descent, tickets must be purchased separately (approximately £22-£40 depending on the service).
How busy is Snowdon?
Snowdon receives approximately 600,000 visitors annually, making it one of the UK’s busiest mountains. Summer weekends and bank holidays are extremely crowded, with the Llanberis Path and Pyg Track seeing the heaviest traffic. For a quieter experience, hike on weekdays, start very early (before 7am), or choose the less popular Rhyd Ddu or Snowdon Ranger paths.
Are there toilets on Snowdon?
Toilet facilities are available at the Snowdon summit building (Hafod Eryri) when open (typically mid-spring to late October). There are also toilets at major parking areas including Pen-y-Pass, Llanberis, and Nant Peris. Once on the mountain paths, there are no facilities, so plan accordingly.
