Climbing Mount Snowdon: Height, Training Tips, and Everything You Need to Know

How High Is Mount Snowdon?

Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) stands at 1,085 metres (3,560 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Wales and the tallest peak in southern Britain. Located in Snowdonia National Park, it draws over half a million visitors each year — many aiming to tick off one of the UK’s most iconic climbs.

How Long Does It Take to Climb Snowdon?

Depending on the route and your pace, climbing Snowdon typically takes 4 to 7 hours round trip. The ascent alone is often around 2.5 to 4 hours, followed by a descent of a similar length — so it's a proper day out.

How to Train for Climbing Snowdon

You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but you will need a moderate to good level of fitness. The climb involves sustained uphill walking, sometimes on steep, uneven terrain.

Fitness areas to focus on:

• Cardiovascular endurance – Walking, hiking, cycling, or stair climbing

• Leg strength – Squats, lunges, or hill walks build strong calves, hamstrings, and quads

• Core stability – Helps with balance and posture on uneven ground

• Stamina – Practice walking for 2–3 hours at a time with breaks

If you're new to hiking, aim to train for at least 6–8 weeks in advance, gradually increasing distance and elevation.

What to Bring When Climbing Snowdon

The weather on Snowdon can change in minutes — even in summer — so packing the right kit is essential.

Essentials include:

• Sturdy walking boots (not trainers) with ankle support

• Waterproof jacket and trousers – even if it’s sunny when you start

• Plenty of water – at least 1.5–2 litres per person

• Food and high-energy snacks – nuts, cereal bars, sandwiches

• Map or GPS – don’t rely solely on your phone

• Extra layers – fleece or jumper

• Hat and gloves – even in warm months

• First aid kit and any personal medication

• Torch or headlamp – just in case you’re delayed

There are no shops or cafés on the way up, though there is a summit café (Hafod Eryri) open seasonally — but don’t rely on it being open.

Where to Park for Mount Snowdon

The main car parks are:

• Pen-y-Pass – Closest to the popular Pyg and Miners’ tracks. Spaces are very limited, and you must pre-book online.

• Llanberis – For the Llanberis Path. More parking, but a longer route.

• Rhyd Ddu – Quieter route with moderate difficulty.

• Nant Peris Park & Ride – Offers shuttle buses to Pen-y-Pass during busy periods.

Parking fills up very early — often before 7am on weekends and holidays. If you're not early, use a park-and-ride service or prepare for a longer walk-in from a nearby village.

When Is Snowdon Busiest?

The mountain is busiest from May to September, especially on weekends, bank holidays, and during school holidays.

The Llanberis Path is the most popular (and often most crowded), while quieter routes include Rhyd Ddu, Snowdon Ranger, or the Watkin Path — though these tend to be steeper or more remote.

If you prefer peace and less foot traffic, go:

• Midweek

• Outside of school holidays

• In spring (April–early May) or autumn (late September–October)

• Start your hike early (before 8am) or later in the afternoon if you're confident finishing before sunset

Can You Take the Train Up Snowdon?

Yes — the Snowdon Mountain Railway runs from Llanberis to the summit during the main tourist season (usually April to October), weather permitting. It's a great option for those with limited mobility or for making the descent after walking up.

You must book in advance, and service is weather-dependent, especially near the top.

Snowdon’s Main Routes Explained

1. Llanberis Path

• Length: 9 miles (there and back)

• Time: 5–7 hours

• Start Point: Llanberis village

• Best For: Beginners and steady walkers

The most gradual and popular route. It’s the longest path but also the most accessible. Ideal for first-timers, but it gets very busy.

2. Pyg Track

• Length: 7 miles return

• Time: 4–6 hours

• Start Point: Pen-y-Pass

• Best For: Confident hikers looking for a scenic and direct route

Steeper and rockier than Llanberis, with stunning views. A good balance of challenge and beauty.

3. Miners' Track

• Length: 8 miles return

• Time: 4–6 hours

• Start Point: Pen-y-Pass

• Best For: Those who want scenic lakes and a gentler start

Starts very easy but becomes steep and challenging towards the summit. A nice route for mixed ability groups.

4. Rhyd Ddu Path

• Length: 8.5 miles return

• Time: 5–6 hours

• Start Point: Rhyd Ddu car park

• Best For: A quieter, peaceful ascent with panoramic views

Less crowded and moderately challenging, this is a great option if you want a more relaxed experience away from crowds.

5. Snowdon Ranger Path

• Length: 8 miles return

• Time: 5–6 hours

• Start Point: Snowdon Ranger Youth Hostel

• Best For: Good walkers looking for variety

A historical path and one of the oldest. It offers changing scenery and moderate difficulty.

6. Watkin Path

• Length: 8 miles return

• Time: 5–7 hours

• Start Point: Nant Gwynant

• Best For: Experienced hikers wanting a challenge

This route starts low and climbs steeply, especially near the summit. It’s beautiful but physically demanding — not for the faint-hearted.

Final Thought

Mount Snowdon is a rewarding and accessible climb for most people with decent fitness — but it still demands respect. Standing at 1,085m, it’s no small hill, and preparation is key to enjoying it safely.

With the right training, gear, and route choice, reaching the summit is an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views across Snowdonia and beyond.