Snowdon via the South Ridge
Snowdon via the South Ridge

Snowdon via the South Ridge

Snowdonia
View Photos
Snowdon via the South Ridge

Snowdon via the South Ridge

Distance: 7.9mi
Elevation: 2,900ft
Time: 4.5-6.5h

Difficulty Rating:

User Ratings:
No ratings yet

As the tallest mountain in Wales, Snowdon offers plenty of choices for exploring its legendary slopes. This route via the South Ridge provides some respite from the seemingly inescapable crowds while also providing convenient access from the village of Rhyd-Ddu. Easily navigable trails lead you past abandoned quarries and up the South Ridge to Snowdon’s peak before descending along the Rhyd-Ddu path back to your starting point. This is a perfect option for those keen on a big adventure with a little less route-finding expertise.

Snowdon via the South Ridge Map

Getting there

To access Snowdon via the South Ridge, head to the village of Rhyd-Ddu. A large car park sits beside the Welsh Highland Railway station.

I’ve done this 0 people have done this
I want to do this 2 want to do this route

About

When to do

April–October

Backcountry Campsites

No

Pets allowed

Yes - On Leash

Family friendly

No

Route Signage

Average

Crowd Levels

Moderate

Route Type

Circuit


Snowdon via the South Ridge
Elevation Graph


Snowdon via the South Ridge Description

Leaving the car park, cross the railroad tracks and follow a straightforward path east towards Bwlch Cwm Llan. This track used to be an access road for mines in the area, so the going is relatively easy. Keep walking east until you reach the Bwlch. This is the low point between Yr Aran on your right and Snowdon on your left.

Turn left to begin your ascent up Snowdon. The path is clear, with very little navigation needed. Some steeper sections may call for a touch of scrambling, but nothing requiring special concern. Eventually, the Rhyd-Ddu path meets your South Ridge Trail on the final push towards the summit. Again, this section isn’t particularly technical, but you should be comfortable with heights as the mountain face drops away on both sides of your climb. No matter the season, you’re likely to encounter other climbers along this last stretch and at the summit itself.

Naturally, the views at Snowdon Peak are nothing short of breathtaking. The eastern view over Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw is the most famous angle, but it’s impossible to find a spot that doesn’t impress. When you’re ready to descend, head back the way you came down to Bwlch Main, then bear right along the Rhyd-Ddu path. This well-trodden route will take you back to the initial track you came in on—turn right and follow this back to the car park.

Comments

0 Comments

Similar hikes to the Snowdon via the South Ridge hike

Foel Goch via Bwlch Walk Tryfan

Foel Goch via Bwlch Tryfan Walk

Difficulty:
5.3mi
1778ft
3-4h

A walk up Foel Goch via Bwlch Tryfan is an excellent way to take in the iconic beauty of Tryfan…

Snowdon via Crib Goch and Miner’s Track

Snowdon via Crib Goch and Miner’s Track

Difficulty:
7.8mi
3054ft
5-6.5h

Of all the many routes up Snowdon, this approach via Crib Goch may be the most demanding! The walk starts…

Y Garn and the Glyderau

Y Garn and the Glyderau

Difficulty:
8.3mi
4915ft
6.5-9h

The Glyderau may be the most celebrated mountain range within Snowdonia National Park, and this full-day adventure visits the highlights!…