Map & Elevation
About this Route
The Llanberis Path is the most walked route up Yr Wyddfa, chosen by around two-fifths of the mountain's visitors for sensible reasons: it's the longest but least steep, and it follows the track of the mountain railway for much of the way, which lends a certain psychological comfort even if the gradient still demands respect. Starting from the village of Llanberis at around 240 metres, the path climbs steadily north-east through a mix of slate-scarred slopes and open mountainside, never throwing anything truly technical at you but sustaining the ascent for the full distance. The views gradually broaden as you gain height, with Llyn Peris shrinking below and the Glyderau range presenting itself across the valley.
This is an out-and-back walk, so the return journey simply retraces your steps, which gives you time to notice details you missed on the way up and to curse any navigational shortcuts you took in haste. The summit itself is often busy, particularly in summer, and the presence of the café and railway station adds a surreal domesticity to what is otherwise a serious mountain environment. Weather can change rapidly at this altitude, and the path becomes significantly more taxing in wind or rain. Treated with proper preparation, the Llanberis Path offers a straightforward but rewarding ascent of Wales' highest peak, with none of the exposure found on the more dramatic routes but all of the elevation gain.
Snowdon may be climbed without the least danger by any moderately active person, but it is a mountain and must be treated as such.
Thomas Pennant
Route Waypoints
Begin just outside Llanberis village near the Royal Victoria Hotel. The path is clear and well-signposted, initially following the road before joining the main track alongside the railway line. Gradient is gentle at first.
Former refreshment stop near the midpoint of the railway line, sitting at approximately 450 metres elevation. The gradient steepens noticeably beyond this point. Good spot to gauge your pace and adjust layers before the upper mountain.
Abandoned railway station at around 650 metres, marking the transition onto the upper mountain. Terrain becomes rockier and more exposed. Views open up significantly towards Crib Goch and the eastern cwms.
Series of steep switchbacks climbing the final shoulder below the summit. Most physically demanding section of the route. Rocky path with loose stones; take care with footing, particularly on descent.
Summit at 1,085 metres, marked by the Hafod Eryri visitor centre and railway station. Often crowded in good weather. Take time to orient yourself for the descent—the path can be harder to identify among converging routes.
Essential Tips
While the path follows the railway for much of the route, walking on the tracks themselves is dangerous and illegal. Trains run frequently in season, and the track bed offers no safe refuge. Stick to the marked footpath at all times.
The village can be warm and calm while the summit experiences gale-force winds and near-freezing temperatures. Carry windproof layers, hat and gloves regardless of conditions at the start. Cloud can descend rapidly, turning navigation tricky even on this well-trodden route.
The loose, stony path on the upper mountain becomes treacherous on the way down, particularly when wet. Take your time on the zigzags—many injuries happen on descent when fatigue and overconfidence combine. Trekking poles are useful here.
The Llanberis Path sees heavy traffic from late morning onwards, with queues forming on narrow sections in peak season. An early start gives you the mountain in relative peace and ensures you're off the summit before afternoon weather deteriorates.