A difficult route in Snowdon Massif. Check the GPS track on Outdooractive for full details of the route, waypoints, and terrain.
Starting Point: Car park opposite mountain railway, Llanberis (SH 582 579
Terrain: Road, steep tarmac track, Llanberis Path (unmistakable, climbs steadily for miles), steps, steep climb through railway tunnel, very steep scree (hard going, particularly tricky downhill), path bearing round, levelling off, short final climb to summit, retrace entire route
This is an outstanding out-and-back walk to Wales's second highest mountain, deliberately chosen to avoid the Snowdon crowds while still experiencing the big stuff. Starting mid-afternoon in Llanberis, the route follows the unmistakable Llanberis Path that climbs steadily for miles past the Halfway House Café with views right to Moel Eilio and Moel Cynghorion, and ahead to Garnedd Ugain's flank where the summit remains hidden until near approach. The steep steps turn slightly left before the railway tunnel, where a right turn begins a very steep 150-metre scree climb that's hard going. The path bears right and levels off, making the going easier before a sharp left turn leads to the short final climb. At 1065m, Garnedd Ugain stands just 20 metres lower than Snowdon but with very few people and just as spectacular views - stunning 360-degree panoramas of Snowdon itself, Anglesey, The Glyderau, The Carneddau, and The Moelwyns in all their glory reward the effort. The return retraces the route entirely, requiring particular care on the steep scree section which proves particularly tricky downhill. A perfect alternative to crowded Snowdon, offering equally magnificent views from Wales's second highest mountain with the solitude of very few fellow walkers.