Walk 1003 - printer friendly version

Snowdon by the Llanberis Path Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 9.0 miles / 14.6 km

Ascent - 3300 feet / 1000 metres

Grade - moderate

Start - OS grid reference SH582590
Lat 53.109286 + Long -4.1198152
Postcode LL55 4UW (approx. location only)

The summit of Snowdon is a magnet for visitors. Some arrive by train from Llanberis whilst others reach the summit the hard way having walked their way to the top. There are a number of routes that lead to the summit of Snowdon and the Llanberis Path, although not the shortest, might be described as one of the easiest as it involves good clear paths and a steady ascent. Despite its relative ease, you should still ensure you are well equipped with good footwear, adequate food and drinks plus clothing to cater for worsening weather conditions.

The start of this walk is the Snowdon Mountain Railway Station in Llanberis (Grid ref. SH 582 598). Walk south along the main road and take the first road on your right. This leads you past some cottages/houses and the start of the Llanberis Path which leads to the summit. The road turns south and shortly after you take the signed path on the left (Grid ref. SH 582 590).

Follow this broad Llanberis Path as it climbs steadily. At this stage the summit (still out of sight) seems a long way off but the gradient is not too taxing and you make steady progress. Passing through a short tunnel under the railway you reach Halfway Station. The ascent continues, steepening somewhat just before Clogwyn Station where you cross to the other side of the track via an underbridge. You are now three-quarters of the way to the top and the next section seems uninteresting as you climb more steeply than the railway to reach the top of the Pyg Track.

The top is now in sight and all that remains is the easy final section to the summit cairn. On most days you will not be alone and there is usually a bustling atmosphere as people enjoy the view and celebrating the achievement of reaching the summit.

To return to the start retrace your steps down the Llanebris Path making sure you keep the railway on your left as far as Clogwyn Station, on your right until Halfway Station and on your left again for the remainder of the route. Refreshments can be obtained at the Summit when trains are operating. In winter extra care is needed as two or three sections of the route are subject to icing turning a straightforward summer route into a more dangerous proposition.

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