Exploring Yr Wyddfa
Walks & Routes & the Three Peaks Challenge - from Tŷ Afon
Rising 1,085 m above sea level, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is Wales’s highest peak - and one of the most loved. Snowdon is one of the three summits in both the National Three Peaks Challenge and the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge - attracting walkers and climbers from across the UK and beyond.
From Tŷ Afon, you can explore its paths, lakes, and valleys right from your doorstep. Whether you’re here for a gentle walk, a full-day adventure, or a scenic train ride to the summit, this is your guide to discovering the mountain at your own pace.
From gentle slopes to thrilling ridges, there’s a path up Yr Wyddfa for every kind of walker. Each route offers its own character, views, and challenge; whether you’re chasing your first summit, another adventure in Eryri or tackling the legendary Three Peaks Challenge.
Getting to Yr Wyddfa from Tŷ Afon
Staying at Tŷ Afon puts you right at the heart of Eryri, with easy access to every path up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Your stay includes free parking, making it simple to set off early or return later without worrying about charges or spaces. From here, it’s a short drive to the main trailheads - Llanberis, Pen-y-Pass (for the Pyg and Miners’ Tracks), Rhyd-Ddu, and Snowdon Ranger - all within around 20 minutes.
For an even smoother start, the Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus network connects the key routes around the mountain, linking Llanberis, Pen-y-Pass, Rhyd-Ddu, Beddgelert, and Betws-y-Coed. You can leave your car safely at Tŷ Afon, hop on the S3 or S4 services, and be dropped right at your chosen path - no parking stress, no queues. Find current timetables here. (bus route map here)
If you prefer to walk straight from our doorstep, you can also reach the mountain on foot. From Tŷ Afon in Beddgelert, local trails lead through forest and open hillside to join both the Rhyd-Ddu Paath and Snowdon Ranger Path - two of the quieter, most scenic routes up Yr Wyddfa. The approach walk takes roughly 1 hour 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Nant Gwynant valley along the way. Many guests choose to hike up via one path and descend another, then catch the Sherpa bus back to Beddgelert for a circular, car-free adventure. (walking route map here)
Whether you set off on foot, take the bus, or drive to a starting point, Tŷ Afon is the ideal base for exploring Yr Wyddfa - relaxed, flexible, and perfectly placed in the heart of Snowdonia. Book your stay here at Tŷ Afon.
Choose Your Route
Llanberis Path
Often called the “gentle giant,” the Llanberis Path is the most gradual route to the summit and follows the line of the Snowdon Mountain Railway. It’s a steady, straightforward climb with wide tracks and sweeping views down to Llyn Padarn and the village of Llanberis. Perfect for first-timers or anyone looking for a relaxed ascent, it offers a rewarding sense of achievement without technical difficulty.
Distance: 9 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 975m (3,199 ft)
Time: Approx 7 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Far end of Victoria Terrace, Llanberis, off the A4086 / what3words
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Numerous car parks in Llanberis (LL55 4TD)
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S4 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Llanberis Interchange
Crib Goch
This is Yr Wyddfa at its most dramatic. Crib Goch is a narrow, exposed ridge that demands a head for heights and confident footing. The knife-edge arête offers thrilling views across the Snowdon Horseshoe and is best tackled in good weather by experienced scramblers. Not for the faint-hearted; but for those who take it on, it’s an unforgettable route across one of the most iconic ridges in the UK.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back via the Pyg Track and Crib Goch to the summit)
Total Climb: 870 m (2,855 ft)
Time: Approx. 4–5 hours (there and back via same route)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display but you must pre-book a parking space.
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S4 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Pyg Track
Short and steep, the Pyg Track wastes no time getting high into the mountains. Beginning at Pen-y-Pass, it rises quickly above the lakes of Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn, with striking views of the surrounding peaks. It’s one of the most direct paths to the top, combining a strong sense of adventure with a manageable distance - ideal for walkers with limited time but plenty of energy
Distance: 7 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 723m (2,372 ft)
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display but you must pre-book a parking space.
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S4 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Miners Track
Starting gently beside the still waters of Llyn Teyrn and Llyn Llydaw, the Miners Track begins deceptively easy before climbing steeply toward the summit ridge. The change in gradient makes it a wonderfully varied route, rich in both history and scenery. The old copper mining ruins along the way tell stories of the mountain’s past, while the upper section rewards you with a proper mountain challenge.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 723m (2,372 ft)
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display but you must pre-book a parking space.
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S4 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Rhyd Ddu Path
Rhyd Ddu PathQuiet, peaceful, and beautifully scenic, the Rhyd-Ddu Path offers a more tranquil way up Yr Wyddfa. Beginning near the village of Rhyd-Ddu, this route climbs steadily through open moorland before joining the main ridge to the summit. It’s a favourite among those seeking solitude and far-reaching views across the Nantlle Valley and the coast beyond. A true gem for those who prefer the quieter side of Snowdon.
Distance: 8.5 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 895m (2,936 ft)
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Rhyd Ddu Car Park (LL54 6TN / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display Rhyd Ddu Car Park (LL54 6TN / what3words)
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S3 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Rhyd Ddu Car Park
Walking route from Tŷ Afon: Walk to Bedgellert train station (10 min walk from Tŷ Afon) and follow the Lôn Gwyrfai route here (approx 4.3 miles)
Snowdon ranger Path
One of the oldest routes up the mountain, the Snowdon Ranger Path offers a balanced blend of challenge and calm. Tracing the steps of early Victorian visitors, it ascends gradually from the western slopes, crossing open countryside and mountain lakes before joining the main ridge near the top. It’s a great choice for steady walkers wanting a quieter climb without the crowds of Llanberis or Pen-y-Pass.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 936m (3,071 ft)
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Llyn Cwellyn Car Park, off the A4085 (LL54 7YT / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display Llyn Cwellyn Car Park ( LL54 7YT / what3words)
Sherpa Bus Stop: Take the S3 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Llyn Cwellyn Car Park
Watkin Path
The Watkin Path begins in lush woodland and waterfalls before rising sharply into rugged mountain terrain. It’s one of the most scenic (and steepest) routes to the summit, demanding good fitness and care on the loose upper slopes. From green valley to high rock, this path showcases the full drama of Eryri’s landscape and is perfect for those seeking a true mountain experience.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 1,015m (3,330 ft)
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start an Finish: Pont Bethania Bridge Car Park, Nant Gwynant, off the A498 (LL55 4NL / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display Pont Bethania Bridge Car Park (LL55 4NL / what3words)
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Nant Gwynant Car Park
Walking route from Tŷ Afon: Follow the river Glaslyn past the Sygun copper mine and to the right of Llyn Dinas to the start of the Watkin path at Nant Gwynant (approx 3.3 miles)
Y Lliwedd
This lesser-known route offers a different perspective of Yr Wyddfa. Traversing the twin peaks of Y Lliwedd, it’s a more demanding but rewarding way to approach or descend the summit, often used as part of the Snowdon Horseshoe. Expect rocky paths, quiet trails, and breathtaking views over Llyn Llydaw. A route for adventurous walkers who enjoy exploring the wilder corners of Eryri.
Distance: 8 miles (there and back)
Total Climb: 914 m (3,000 ft)
Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display but you must pre-book a parking space.
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S4 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Pen-y-Pass Car Park
Snowdon Horseshoe
The Snowdon Horseshoe is a classic mountain circuit; one of the most celebrated ridge walks in Britain and is often used by experienced hikers as part of Three Peaks Challenge training. It takes in four dramatic peaks: Crib Goch, Crib y Ddysgl, Yr Wyddfa, and Y Lliwedd, circling the glacial lakes of Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn below. The route is exposed, challenging, and exhilarating, offering spectacular panoramic views across the whole of Eryri. Best suited to experienced walkers and scramblers with a head for heights, it’s the ultimate way to experience the full scale and beauty of Snowdon.
Distance: 7 miles (loop)
Total Climb: 1,115 m (3,660 ft)
Time: Approx 6–8 hours (circular)
Start and Finish: Pen-y-Pass Car Park (LL55 4NY / what3words)
Map: OS Explorer OL17
Parking: Pay and Display, pre-booking essential at Pen-y-Pass.
Sherpa Bus from Tŷ Afon: Take the S4 bus from the main bus stop in Bedgellert (5 min walk from Tŷ Afon) to Pen-y-Pass Car Park
The Snowdon Mountain Railway
If you’d prefer not to walk up (or down) the mountain, the Snowdon Mountain Railway is a wonderful way to reach the summit - with a café waiting at the top. We can’t promise a view, though; it all depends on the weather, which changes quickly here in Eryri! Find out more here
Guided Walks, Local Experts
For those who’d like extra confidence on the mountain, we can recommend experienced local guides who know Yr Wyddfa inside out.
Summit to Savour offer a range of tailored adventure experiences and mountain skills courses.
Sam (more info needed!) is also a highly regarded independent guide based here in Snowdonia.
Just ask us when booking your stay and we’ll be happy to share contact details and help you arrange your walk.
Weather. When to Visit
Conditions on Yr Wyddfa can change quickly with bright sunshine one moment, mist or rain the next. Spring and summer offer long days and mild weather, while autumn brings quieter trails and vivid mountain colours. Winter can be spectacular, but ice and snow mean proper gear and experience are essential. Always check the Met Office Snowdonia forecast before heading out, and remember that temperatures at the summit can be several degrees cooler than in the valleys.
Before You Go
Conditions on Yr Wyddfa can change quickly. Always check the forecast, carry proper equipment, and plan your route in advance. However you choose to climb, take your time - the journey is just as rewarding as the summit.
For detailed maps, route updates and safety advice, see the official Visit Snowdonia guide to Snowdon walking routes or the Eryri National Park website.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided in good faith and for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of route details, distances, timings, and transport information, Tŷ Afon and its owners accept no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this information.
Mountain conditions can change rapidly, and all visitors are responsible for assessing their own fitness, skills, and the suitability of any route or activity. Always check the latest weather forecasts, local advice, and official resources (such as Eryri National Park and Visit Snowdonia) before setting out.
References or links to third-party websites (including guides, transport providers, or external maps) are provided for convenience only; Tŷ Afon has no control over their content and does not endorse or guarantee their accuracy.
By using this information, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and agree that Tŷ Afon, its owners, and staff shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of the information provided.