Guides/Hiking Routes/Yr Wyddfa via the Llanberis Path
Route Guide · Eryri (Snowdonia)

Yr Wyddfa via the Llanberis Path

A strenuous 12.1 km out-and-back from the Llanberis Path trailhead to Yr Wyddfa’s 1,085 m summit, gaining 837 m. It is the mountain’s most gradual main route, but still long, rough, exposed and demanding in poor weather.

StrenuousDistance: 12.1 kmAscent: 837mGrade: Strenuous
Keep this in your private Saved Guides list
Distance
12.1 km
Ascent
837m
Grade
Strenuous
Time
3h 48m
Start
Far end of Victoria Terrace, Llanberis
OS Map
OS Explorer OL17 — Yr Wyddfa and the Conwy Valley

Map & Elevation

Loading map…

About this Route

This GPX traces a 12.1 km out-and-back from the Llanberis Path trailhead at the far end of Victoria Terrace to Yr Wyddfa's 1,085 m summit, gaining 837 m. Follow the steep lane past Pen y Ceunant Isaf and the farm, then take the signed path left. The route climbs parallel to the mountain railway, passes Halfway House, keeps left at the Allt Moses fork, crosses beneath the railway and climbs the slopes of Carnedd Ugain to Bwlch Glas. Continue on the shared summit path, then reverse the GPX. It is the most gradual main ascent, not an easy walk; village parking and the approach to Victoria Terrace are outside this GPX and add distance.

The railway is a useful landmark but not a substitute for the path, and walkers must never enter the track. Above Clogwyn the route is exposed to wind, snow and ice, with the ground falling steeply beside the upper zigzags. The summit building can be closed and should not be relied upon for shelter, food or water. Descend by the same Llanberis line, checking each junction carefully when cloud hides the valley.

While it’s the longest route, it does offer the most gradual climb to the peak.

Eryri National Park

Route Waypoints

1
Llanberis Path trailhead0 km

Start at the far end of Victoria Terrace, grid reference SH 581 589. Climb the steep road past Pen y Ceunant Isaf and through the farmyard, then take the prominent left-hand path signed Llanberis Path.

2
Halfway HouseAbout 2.5 km

After passing beneath the railway, continue with the line on your left to the seasonal Halfway House. The path becomes steeper beyond; do not rely on refreshments being open.

3
Allt Moses, Clogwyn and upper pathAbout 4.0 km

At the foot of Allt Moses keep left up Llechog. Pass beneath the railway again, take care beside Cwm Glas Bach and continue steeply with Clogwyn Coch to the right towards Bwlch Glas.

4
Yr Wyddfa summit6.03 km

From Bwlch Glas follow the busy shared path to the 1,085 m summit and Hafod Eryri. In cloud, identify the Llanberis return direction before leaving; this GPX turns around here.

5
Clogwyn descent7.4 km

Leave the summit on the Llanberis Path and descend past the upper railway section. Keep off the track and watch for ice on the shaded zigzags.

6
Halfway House on return9.6 km

Pass the Halfway House again and stay with the main descending path. Side tracks and the railway should not be used as shortcuts.

7
Victoria Terrace return11.7 km

Rejoin the lower lane and follow it back to the recorded trailhead. Take care around traffic and residential access at the edge of Llanberis.

8
Return to Llanberis trailhead12.1 km

Retrace the Llanberis Path via Bwlch Glas, Clogwyn and Halfway House to Victoria Terrace. Stay off the railway at all times and remember that any onward walk to village parking is not included in the GPX.

Essential Tips

Never use the railway as a path

Walking on or beneath the mountain railway line is extremely dangerous. Trains may operate in season and there is no safe refuge on the track; remain on the clearly marked footpath.

Do not rely on trains, cafés or toilets

Summit facilities and the Halfway House are seasonal and may close in bad weather, while descending passengers normally have return bookings. Carry all food, drink, clothing and emergency supplies needed to walk both ways.

Check official ground conditions

Review Yr Wyddfa Live and a mountain forecast before setting out. Cloud, strong wind, heat, snow or ice can make this supposedly gradual route serious; winter conditions require specialist skills and equipment.

Use designated parking or public transport

The GPX starts at Victoria Terrace, not a car park. Park only in designated Llanberis car parks or use Sherpa'r Wyddfa to the interchange, and allow extra time and distance to reach the trailhead.

See More Hiking Route Guides All With GPX

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the GPX statistics for the Llanberis Path?

This GPX is 12.1 km out and back with 837 m of ascent from the Victoria Terrace trailhead. TrailTrack's pace estimate is 3 hours 48 minutes; village parking approaches add distance and mountain conditions add time.

Is the Llanberis Path an easy route up Yr Wyddfa?

No. Eryri National Park grades it Hard/Strenuous. It is the longest and most gradual main route, but still demands fitness, navigation, full hill kit and safe decisions in changing weather.

Can I walk on the Snowdon Mountain Railway track or take a train down?

No. Never walk on or beneath the railway track. Do not rely on a train seat, summit café, toilets or Halfway House being available; be equipped to walk the entire return route.

This Route

Download GPX
View More GPX Hiking Guides →← Back to GuidesEryri (Snowdonia) Region Guide →
Feed
My Trails
Explore
Map