Miners, Pyg Tracks

These most-used routes up beautiful Mt Snowdon approach from Pen-y-pass to the east. You won’t be alone at more popular times.

The Miners' Track follows the lower hillsides above the valley up to the beautiful Llyn Llydaw reservoir, with its classic views westward up the bowl to the high, exposed horseshoe comprising the Crib Goch ridge to the north, Snowdon's elegant cone dead centre and the serrated ridge of Y LLiwedd, the early rock climbers' Mecca, to the south.

A steady climb gets you to the Glaslyn upper lake right below the Snowdon cliffs. You pass the remains of early mining as you go, from disused 'levels' and buildings to abandoned mines.

From Glaslyn lake you make a taxing, craggy ascent to join the Pyg Track and then on up to the high Snowdon summit ridge, to enter a new world of huge views and often blustering wind. You can now see the full glory (horror) of Crib Goch, the inviting Nantlle Ridge to the west, with the Lleyn Peninsula receding behind it. The sea gleams to the north and south-west, with central Snowdonia receding to the east and South. Thrilling. The walk up the high ridge to the summit is an easy if often overpopulated walk.

The Pyg Track traverses the same northern hillside, but significantly higher up.

You can approach it either direct from Pen-y-pass or a turning a short distance up the Miners Track.

It is, overall, a steadier climb than the Miners’ Track, with bigger views from earlier on and little mining mess but not the lakeside beauty either. (‘Pyg’ apparently references the Pen y Gwryd hotel eastward below Pen-y- pass, once frequented by the famous early climbers.)

A classic way to climb Snowdon would be to combine these routes. Which you choose really depends on whether you prefer to climb or descend the steep section of the Miners' Track above upper Glaslyn lake. 

Some head for heights is needed, but this is not dangerous or highly exposed trail on a reasonable day. This is, though, demanding walking in sheer mountains with uncertain weather. Come fully prepared, and consider whether tackling it is sensible in poor conditions.

Truly worthwhile and delightful walking on a reasonable day. Not much point in low cloud.

Well written up in the Cicerone book.

See our Snowdonia page for helpful practical information, photos ideas and any risks to consider.