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Around & About XL
Snowdon Map - 2024 High-Resolution - Llanberis Path, Miners Track, PYG Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd Ddu Path, Snowdon Ranger Path & South Ridge Paths
This high-resolution map of Mount Snowdon uses OS data and covers all the major Snowdon routes. This Snowdon paths map includes the Llanberis Path, Miners track, PYG Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd Ddu Path, Snowdon... Read More
This high-resolution map of Mount Snowdon uses OS data and covers all the major Snowdon routes. This Snowdon paths map includes the Llanberis Path, Miners track, PYG Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd Ddu Path, Snowdon Ranger Path and the Snowdon Horseshoe. Some of these paths are very challenging and given how quickly the weather can change a detailed map (enhanced scale) such as this with a compass are really a necessity when attempting the Snowdon Trails. VisitSnowdonia have an indepth guide describing the Mount Snowdon routes with 7 pointers as to how to make your adventure safe and enjoyable. This Snowdon routes map includes the following.
Llanberis Path, a popular route to the summit of Snowdon. It starts near the village of Llanberis and is considered one of the easier paths up Snowdon, although it's still challenging due to its steep ascent. The path is approximately 9 miles round trip and offers stunning views of Snowdonia National Park along the way. Hikers pass through varied terrain, including rocky sections and open moorland, with the final stretch leading to Snowdon's summit. Llanberis Path is well-marked and accessible, making it a favourite for both experienced hikers and those seeking a memorable mountain adventure.
The Miners Track, provides a scenic and less challenging ascent to the summit. Starting from Pen-y-Pass, the path initially follows an old miners' route used for transporting copper ore. The track offers views of Llyn Teyrn and Llyn Llydaw, two beautiful glacial lakes and as the path ascends, hikers encounter more rugged terrain. The Miners Track is a popular choice for as it provides an excellent introduction to Snowdon's surroundings without the steepness of other routes, making it suitable for families and less experienced hikers. The track eventually joins with the Pyg Track, offering an alternative route to the summit.
The Pyg Track offers a challenging yet rewarding ascent to the summit. Starting from Pen-y-Pass, the Pyg Track initially follows a well-marked path that ascends steadily through rocky terrain. The track is named after the Pen y Gwryd Hotel, known locally as the "Pyg," which was a popular base for early climbers. The path crosses a landscape characterised by rugged slopes, with occasional sections of scree and rocky outcrops. Along the way, hikers pass by Bwlch y Moch, a notable col between Snowdon and Glyder Fach, before continuing their ascent towards the summit. It intersects with the Miners’ Track near Glaslyn, a beautiful lake nestled below Snowdon's eastern slopes and from there, ascends to the summit.
The Watkin Path an attractive and challenging route to the summit. Starting near Nant Gwynant, this path is known for its steep ascent and rugged terrain. The Watkin Path was originally constructed by Sir Edward Watkin in the 19th century, making it one of the oldest routes to the summit. As hikers ascend, they pass through a mix of landscapes, including woodlands, waterfalls, and rocky sections. The path offers spectacular views, such as those of the impressive Gladstone Rock and the cascading Watkin Path Falls. The Watkin Path is considered one of the more demanding routes, due to its continuous steepness and length. However, the effort is rewarded with breath-taking scenery and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
The Rhyd Ddu Path offers a less crowded route to the summit. Starting from the village of Rhyd Ddu on the western side of Snowdon, this path gradually ascends through peaceful countryside and wooded areas before reaching more rugged terrain higher up. The Rhyd Ddu Path is known for its gradual ascent, making it suitable for a range of walkers, including families and those seeking a slightly less challenging route. One of the highlights along the Rhyd Ddu Path is the Bwlch Main ridge, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Nantlle Ridge to the west and the Snowdon Horseshoe to the east. The path joins with the Snowdon Ranger Path near the summit, providing an alternative approach to Snowdon's peak.
The Snowdon Ranger Path offers an historic and scenic route to the summit. Starting from the Snowdon Ranger Youth Hostel near Llyn Cwellyn, this path follows a relatively gentle ascent initially, passing through heather-covered slopes and rocky outcrops. The Snowdon Ranger Path is one of the oldest routes to the summit, named after the mountain guides who once led tourists to the peak in the 19th century. As hikers ascend, they are treated to wide ranging views of Llyn Cwellyn and the surrounding Snowdonia mountains. The path gradually becomes steeper as it approaches the summit, with some sections requiring careful footing. One of the notable features along the Snowdon Ranger Path is the remains of an old copper mine near Bwlch Cwm Brwynog, providing a glimpse into the area's industrial past. The path eventually joins with the Llanberis Path near the summit, offering an alternative route to Snowdon's peak.
Walking up the South Ridge Paths on Snowdon provides a challenging and less-travelled route to the summit of Wales' highest peak. The South Ridge Paths include several options, such as the South Ridge Direct and the South Ridge Traverse, both starting from the Rhyd Ddu side of Snowdon.
The South Ridge Direct is a direct and steep ascent, offering stunning views over Llyn Cwellyn and Moel Hebog as hikers climb. This path involves some scrambling and requires good navigation skills in places due to its rugged nature. Alternatively, the South Ridge Traverse offers a longer but less steep route. It begins gently from Rhyd Ddu before climbing more steeply to meet the Snowdon Ranger Path near Bwlch Main. This route provides excellent views of the Nantlle Ridge to the west and Snowdon's summit to the east.
Both routes on the South Ridge Paths offer solitude and a sense of adventure away from the crowds that typically flock to the more popular paths on Snowdon. However, they require careful planning and preparation due to their challenging terrain.
All at Yellow Maps wish you a happy and safe hike up Yr Wyddfa.
An alternative Around & About map of Snowdon / Yr Wyddfa is available with The Three Peaks Boxed Set. It covers less square miles, as it has one less fold, than this Around & About ‘XL’ map on this page.
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