This route covers 11.5km return.It involves around 723m of cumulative elevation gain.
The route reaches roughly 1,085m at its highest point. While the altitude is moderate, weather exposure and wind can make conditions feel more demanding than the elevation suggests.
Technically, the Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) via Pyg & Miners' Track standard trail is a scramble. The primary difficulty is the sustained physical effort required or technical terrain features.
Overview
Technical Summary
At 1,085 meters, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) is the highest mountain in Wales and a true giant of the British Isles. The legendary circular route combining the Pyg Track for the ascent and the Miners' Track for the descent offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of the Snowdon massif.
The Mountain Lakes. The 'X-Factor' is the descent via the Miners' Track, where you walk right along the precipitous edges of Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw. Looking up at the 500-meter vertical wall of Snowdon’s eastern face from the shores of these deep, glaciated lakes creates a profound sense of scale and amphitheater-like drama that is unrivaled in southern Britain.
Hazard Assessment
The summit of Snowdon can be exceptionally cold, wet, and windy, even in mid-summer when it's warm in Llanberis.
The zigzag path near the junction of the Pyg and Miners' tracks (below the summit) is steep, eroded, and requires hands-on scrambling.
The Expert Take
Success on this route requires balancing physical stamina with environmental awareness.Local conditions shift rapidly; always verify forecasts with regional authorities before moving to higher ground.
Stage Breakdowns
Pen-y-Pass (Pyg Track)
Climbing the rocky path out of the pass, beneath the shadow of Crib Goch.
Bwlch Glas and The Zigzags
The steepest section where the Pyg and Miners meet for the final push to the ridge.
Summit (Yr Wyddfa)
Touching the trig point and enjoying the vast Welsh panorama.
Descent via Miners' Track
Dropping steeply to the lakes and walking the historic mining causeway back to Pen-y-Pass.
Route
Geometry
Topographical Data & Reference Points
- Route Typehiking
- Highest Pointpeak elevation on route1085m
- Lowest Pointvalley floor elevation359m
- GPS Location53.0680°N 4.0760°W
Technical Profile
Vertical Ascent Profile
Starts at an advantageous 359m (Pen-y-Pass). A sustained, rocky ascent on the Pyg Track, a steep final push, and a descent that quickly drops to lakeside level before a long, flat walk out.
Terrain Characteristics
Scramble terrain (Class 2) — involves fixed-rope sections or often required hand-use on steep terrain.
A measured physical load of 723m ascent requires steady pacing but remains accessible for active hikers.
Data referenced from regional park authority sources and topographic surveys.
Technical
Matrix Profile
The HikeMetrics Global Matrix provides an objective, multi-dimensional assessment of technical difficulty, exposure risk, and environmental load.
Risk Summary
Professional evaluation of route mechanics and environmental stress factors. Recommended for participants within specified technical scope.
This profile uses the HikeMetrics v1.0 risk matrix, prioritizing environmental stress and movement complexity over simple elevation metrics.
Technical Specs
Access & Logistics
Regulations
No permit, but pre-booking Pen-y-Pass parking is often required during the main season.
Seasonality
Winter conditions (ice/snow) make this route dangerous without crampons and ice axe. The summit cafe (Hafod Eryri) closes in winter. Regulations change; verify with the official park or local authority before departure.
Safety Index
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Cross-Reference Analysis
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Next Operational Phase
Get Field Ready
Logistics & Permits
Verify all permit requirements and regional park access rules. High-season routes often require advance coordination for logistics.
View Requirements Protocol 02Field Preparation
Ensure equipment matches the technical demands of the specific terrain. Check current trail reports and humidity/wind variables.
View LoadoutExplore Similar Journeys
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Direct Comparison
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Compare terrain metrics, intensity scores, and physical demands side-by-side.
Core Concepts
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Topic grouping based on geography, physical exertion profile, and technical movement typology.
Route Questions
Is there a cafe at the top?
Yes, Hafod Eryri, but it only opens from late spring to early autumn and depends entirely on the Snowdon Mountain Railway operating. Do not rely on it for survival.
Do permit rules stay constant year-round?
Not always. Permit and guide requirements can change by season and region. Verify the latest rules with the official park office or local authority before departure.
What is the safest start-time strategy?
Start early and plan to clear exposed sections before midday. This reduces heat, storm, and visibility risk on most mountain routes.
How much water capacity is usually needed?
For exposed hiking days, carrying 2-3 liters is common. Increase capacity when refill reliability is low or temperatures are high.
Is mobile signal reliable on route?
Coverage is often patchy outside towns and major valleys. Treat phones as secondary tools and carry offline navigation resources.
Dossier Verification & Sync
Data points indexed in this dossier are cross-referenced against authoritative land management records and regional mapping. HikeMetrics maintains independent verification protocols for all primary route geometry.