Everything you need to know about the Pyg Track Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)
Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding hiking adventure? Look no further than the Pyg Track up Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), one of the most popular routes to Wales’s highest mountain summit.
Step onto the Pyg Track and get ready to embark on a journey that will take you to the heights of Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa).
Soaring to 1,085 metres, this Welsh wonder awaits those up for the challenge of a 7-mile round trip hike that takes 5-7 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll ascend 723 metres, gaining an appreciation for the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.
With stunning views, varied terrain, and a fantastic sense of accomplishment, the Pyg Track offers a challenging and enjoyable hike. Our article will explore why the Pyg Track is an excellent option for those looking to take on the Snowdon challenge.
Whether you’re an experienced or a beginner, read on to discover why the Pyg Track should be at the top of your hiking bucket list. While the ascent is certainly no easy feat, it falls somewhere between a moderate and easy hike, ensuring that novice and experienced hikers can confidently take on the Pyg Track.
So come prepared and ready for adventure, and let the Pyg Track guide you to the summit of Snowdon.
Pyg Track Snowdon Details
Time: 5- 7 hours
Distance: 7-miles
Elevation: 723m
Where can I park for the Pyg Track Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)?
The first step on your journey to conquer Snowdon via the Pyg Track is finding your way to the start point at the Pen-y-pass car park. Grid Ref: SH 647 577
But beware – this coveted parking spot fills up faster than a bird taking flight at sunrise!
You can find the directions to the Pen-y-Pass Car Park on Google Maps here.
Parking at Pen-y-Pass is limited during peak season, and pre-booking is required. The cost is £18 for up to 8 hours, £25 for 8-12 hours, and £40 for 12-24 hours. Alternatively, you can park in Nant Peris and use the Park and Ride service.
During the off-season, the parking fee is £10 per day, and payment is by card only.
Plan to arrive early – before 7 am- to increase your chances of snagging a spot. But if you miss out, don’t worry. Another option is parking in nearby Llanberis and taking advantage of the Snowdon Sherpa bus service. Then, for just £2.00 and a quick 15-minute ride, you’ll arrive at the Pen-y-Pass ready to hit the trail.
Remember that parking on the roadside and walking to the start point is not recommended. A proper path and potentially dangerous roads make this risky. So, play it safe and opt for the car park or the bus, and you’ll be well on your way to the Pyg Track and all the adventure it holds.
Facilities on the Pyg Track Snowdon
As you embark on your Pyg Track journey up Snowdon, it’s essential to remember the facilities available along the way. Luckily, a few key spots will help keep you fueled and ready for the adventure ahead.
First up, public toilets can be found at the start point of Pen-y-Pass and at the Snowdon Pen-y-Pass Youth Hostel. And if you’re feeling peckish or need a refreshing drink, stop by Mallory’s Café, attached to the hostel. You’ll find a tasty selection of snacks, pub meals, and beverages to help you refuel and recharge.
But the real gem on this trek is the Hafod Eryri visitor’s centre at the summit of Snowdon. Here, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views while enjoying a hot or cold drink and a tasty snack. And remember to peruse the souvenir offerings – a perfect way to commemorate your Snowdon adventure.
It’s worth noting that, other than these critical spots, there are no other facilities along the Pyg Track route. So come prepared with all the gear and snacks you’ll need for the journey, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on one of the UK’s most iconic peaks.
7 Top Tips
- Get a map! While the Pyg Track is easy to follow, there are some tricky spots, especially on cloudy days. Bring a physical or digital map you’ve downloaded in advance. The Ordnance Survey App is an excellent option for regular UK hikers.
- Bring a fully charged phone or a portable charger if you use your phone to navigate. You want to stay on the mountain!
- Remember your camera. The Pyg Track views are breathtaking, and you’ll want to capture every moment.
- Wear the right shoes. The trail mixes easy-walking gravel tracks, hard, stony paths and loose rocky scree, so you’ll want waterproof footwear with a good grip, ideally walking boots or shoes.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Snowdonia is notorious for dramatic weather changes, so pack waterproof clothes and some warm clothes. Remember sunscreen and a hat on sunny days – no shade on the trail!
- Bring plenty of food and water. The café at the summit of Snowdon has remained closed throughout 2021 and 2022, so taking your supplies is essential. Walking for 5 to 7 hours is tiring and consumes many calories. It is said to reopen in 2023, though!
- Take a towel and your best swimwear for a refreshing swim down. It’s a great way to cool off after a long hike!
Pyg Track Snowdon Step-by-Step Guide
Hiking the Pyg Track to Snowdon is a popular and rewarding way to reach the summit of Wales’s highest mountain. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your hike and maximise your experience.
Step 1: Plan your route and check the weather forecast
The Pyg Track begins at the Pen-y-Pass car park, and the total distance is around 7.5km. Before setting out, check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly. Wear layers and bring suitable hiking boots, food, and water.
You can check the weather for Snowdon on the Met Office forecast and on the Mountain Forecast.
Step 2: Begin your hike at Pen-y-Pass car park
The hike starts at the Pen-y-Pass car park, which can get busy, so arriving early is best. Then, follow the signposted path and begin the steady ascent up the mountain.
Step 3: Follow the Pyg Track path
The Pyg Track path is well-marked and easy to follow, with clear signposts and waymarkers. The course winds up the mountain, passing through rocky outcrops and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Step 4: Take in the views
As you climb higher, take a break to enjoy the stunning views of the Snowdonia National Park. You’ll see breathtaking vistas of lakes, valleys, and other peaks in the distance.
Step 5: Reach the col
After around 4.5km, you’ll reach a col, a natural low point in the ridge. Here, the Pyg Track meets with the Miners’ Track, and you’ll have the opportunity to take a short detour to see the glacial lake of Llyn Llydaw.
Step 6: Continue the ascent to the summit
From the col, continue up the mountain, following the signposts to the summit. The path becomes steeper and rockier, but it’s still well-marked and easy to follow.
Step 7: Reach the summit
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the summit! Take a moment to enjoy the incredible views and snap some photos to remember the experience.
Step 8: Descend via the same path
The descent follows the same path as the ascent, so retrace your steps to the Pen-y-Pass car park.
Hiking the Pyg Track to Snowdon is a challenging but rewarding experience. Following this step-by-step guide, you can plan your route, stay safe, and make the most of your time on Wales’ highest mountain. Remember to take your time, enjoy the views, and, most importantly, have fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the Pyg Track Snowdon?
The Pyg Track: a name that has puzzled and intrigued hikers for years. Some say it’s named after Bwlch y Moch, or “the pass of pigs”, which the path crosses.
Others argue that it comes from the Welsh word for black tar, “pyg”, which the path was used to transport from the Britannia Copper Works in Cwm Glaslyn. And then some believe it’s connected to the historic Pen y Gwryd Hostel, where mountaineers would rest after the ascent.
But who’s to say which theory is true? It may be the very mystery surrounding the Pyg Track’s name that adds to its allure. As you make your way up Snowdon along this storied path, you can’t help but wonder: why is it called the Pyg Track?
The answer may never be known, but that only adds to the sense of adventure and discovery that comes with hiking this legendary trail.
How long is the Pyg Track up, Snowdon?
The Pyg Track up Snowdon is approximately 7 miles (11.2 kilometres) round trip.
How long does it take to climb Snowdon Pyg Track?
The Pyg Track up Snowdon usually takes 5-7 hours, depending on your fitness level, weather conditions, and how often you stop to take the breathtaking views.
How hard is the Pyg Track Snowdon?
The Pyg Track up Snowdon is generally considered a moderate to strenuous hike, with some steep and rocky sections. However, with proper preparation, including wearing appropriate footwear and clothing and bringing enough food and water, it is a hike that hikers of varying skill levels can enjoy.
It’s essential to remember that the weather can change rapidly on the mountain, and it’s necessary to be prepared for all conditions.
Overall Thoughts on the Pyg Track Snowdon
Walking Snowdon via the Pyg Track is a challenging yet advantageous experience that offers some of the most stunning views in Snowdonia National Park. The trail takes you through diverse terrain, from rocky scrambles to gentle grassy paths, with various flora and fauna to observe along the way. The ascent to the summit of Mount Snowdon is challenging, but the feeling of accomplishment upon reaching the top is truly unbeatable.
It is important to note that the Pyg Track is a challenging walk and should be considered. Therefore, proper preparation, including appropriate clothing, footwear, and supplies, is crucial. It is also advisable to check the weather forecast before setting out and to consider the time of year and the length of daylight hours.
Overall, if you are up for a challenging hike and want to experience the natural beauty of Snowdonia National Park, the Pyg Track is worth considering. With its stunning views, varied terrain, and sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit, it is a truly memorable experience for anyone who loves the outdoors.
For more routes up Snowdon, including an overview of 7 other ways, please read: Walking up Snowdon.
For a complete guide to one of the more challenging routes, please read: Climbing Crib Goch and for other Snowdonia walks, please read:
Photo Credits: averagelives.com
We want to stress that ‘Average Lives’ cannot be held liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur while walking our routes. We strongly advise that you wear proper footwear to reduce the risk of injuries, and carry a paper map and compass to ensure your safety while walking. You can read more on our About Page.