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Mountain · Conwy, País de Gales
Yr Wyddfa
The highest mountain in Wales, at 1,085 metres, in Eryri National Park; climbed by six main paths or, in season, by the rack-and-pinion railway that departs from Llanberis.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Yr Wyddfa
Yr Wyddfa, also called Snowdon, is the highest mountain of Wales and of England, at 1,085 metres, in the heart of Eryri National Park, also known as Snowdonia, created in 1951. The Welsh name means 'the tomb', linked to the legend of a giant slain by King Arthur. On clear days the summit offers views to Ireland, the Isle of Man, Scotland and England.
Six main paths lead to the summit, taking 6 to 7 hours round trip. The Llanberis Path, starting from the village of Llanberis, is the longest and most gradual, running alongside the railway. The Pyg Track and the Miners' Track start from Pen-y-Pass, are shorter and have stony sections; the latter passes lakes of blue-green colour and ruins of copper mines. The Watkin Path and the Rhyd Ddu Path approach from the south and west. At the top is Hafod Eryri, the summit visitor centre, with a café, open in the railway season.
The Snowdon Railway, a rack railway, has climbed from the village of Llanberis to the summit since 1896 and usually operates from spring until early November; in some periods and in bad weather it only runs as far as Clogwyn, about three-quarters of the way up. It is described on a separate page.
The ascent on foot requires preparation, warm waterproof clothing, a map and attention to the weather, which changes quickly. The Pen-y-Pass car park requires booking in summer; the Sherpa'r Wyddfa buses link the paths with the villages.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One day: the main paths take 6 to 7 hours round trip.
Best time
From June to September, on a clear day, starting early in the morning. With low cloud and strong winds the summit has no views and the ascent becomes much harder: check the weather forecast beforehand. In winter there is snow and ice, and the climb requires equipment.
How to get there
Llanberis is about 40 km from Conwy, a 45-minute drive; Pen-y-Pass about 35 km. The Sherpa'r Wyddfa buses link Llanberis, Pen-y-Pass, Betws-y-Coed and other villages to the paths. By train the nearest station is Bangor, with buses to Llanberis.
Tip
Those who want to ascend with little effort can go up by train and walk down via the Llanberis Path; check whether the train reaches the summit that day. Take a warm, waterproof jacket even in summer.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Yr Wyddfa
How high is Yr Wyddfa?
1,085 metres, the highest mountain in Wales.
Are Snowdon and Yr Wyddfa the same mountain?
Yes. Yr Wyddfa is the Welsh name, now used officially, and Snowdon is the English name.
How long does the climb take?
About 6 to 7 hours round trip via the main paths.
Which is the easiest trail?
The Llanberis Path, the longest and most gradual, alongside the railway line.