Compare the six routes
A side-by-side comparison of all six main summit routes to help you choose the right path for your fitness, experience, and starting point. All times are estimates for reasonably fit adults in good summer conditions.
Route comparison table
| Route | Start point | Distance | Elevation gain | Est. duration* | Difficulty | Exposed ridge | Rail access | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Llanberis PathLlwybr Llanberis | Royal Victoria Hotel / Llanberis village car parks100 m | 14.5 km9 mi | 975 m | 6–7 hrs | Easiest | Yes | — | Full guide → |
| Pyg TrackLlwybr Pyg | Pen y Pass (LL55 4NY)359 m | 11 km7 mi | 723 m | 5–6 hrs | Hard | Yes | — | Full guide → |
| Miners' TrackLlwybr y Mwynwyr | Pen y Pass (LL55 4NY)359 m | 13 km8 mi | 723 m | 5–6 hrs | Hard | Yes | — | Full guide → |
| Watkin PathLlwybr Watkin | Pont Bethania60 m | 13 km8 mi | 1015 m | 6–7 hrs | Hardest | Yes | — | Full guide → |
| Rhyd Ddu PathLlwybr Rhyd Ddu | Rhyd Ddu village car park (LL54 6TN)190 m | 12 km7.5 mi | 890 m | 6–7 hrs | Hard | Yes | WHR | Full guide → |
| Snowdon Ranger PathLlwybr Cwellyn | Llyn Cwellyn car park (LL54 7YS)180 m | 13 km8 mi | 936 m | 5–6.5 hrs | Moderate | Yes | WHR | Full guide → |
* Duration estimates are for reasonably fit adults carrying a day pack in good summer conditions. Allow additional time if you are less experienced, in poor weather, or carrying heavy loads. WHR = Welsh Highland Railway.
Which route should I choose?
I am visiting Snowdon for the first time
The most gradual ascent, clearest path, and best facilities along the way. Longer than most routes but never very steep.
I want the shortest route to the summit
At 11 km round trip, it is the shortest. Starts at the highest car park (359 m). Rocky and demanding but the most direct.
I want to see the mountain lakes
Passes Llyn Teyrn, crosses the Llyn Llydaw causeway, and reaches turquoise Glaslyn. The lower section is excellent for families who do not want to summit.
I want to avoid the crowds
Far fewer walkers than any eastern route. Requires navigation skills and comfort with an exposed ridge at Bwlch Main.
I want the most dramatic scenery
Views of Crib Goch, the Horseshoe from Bwlch y Moch, and Glaslyn far below the crags. Outstanding from early in the ascent.
I want to visit without a car
Welsh Highland Railway stops directly at the trailhead. Sherpa buses also serve all other trailheads.
I want the richest history and landscape
Gladstone Rock, WWII commando ruins, copper mine remains, oak woodland, and waterfalls. Most elevation gain of any route — experienced walkers only.
I want a less-travelled route without an exposed ridge
The oldest named route, well-waymarked, no scrambling or exposed ridges. Quieter than the Llanberis Path and accessible by rail.
Key facts about all six routes
All six routes share the same summit at 1,085 metres (3,560 ft) and the same Hafod Eryri visitor centre. The principal differences are starting elevation, total distance, terrain character, and quietness.
Easiest vs hardest: The Llanberis Path is the most forgiving in terms of gradient and terrain, making it the most accessible for first-time visitors. The Watkin Path has the greatest elevation gain — starting from just 60 m — and loose scree near the top that makes it the most demanding standard route. The Rhyd Ddu Path has an exposed narrow ridge (Bwlch Main) that requires a head for heights.
Combining routes: The Pyg Track and Miners' Track both start and end at Pen y Pass and join below the summit, making them a natural circular pair. The Watkin Path and Rhyd Ddu Path can be combined as a traverse, descending via one and ascending via the other (requires two cars or a bus connection).
None of these routes is easy. Every one requires waterproof clothing, walking boots, warm layers, water, food, and a map or GPS device.