Pronunciation: Ur Withva
Let's not beat about the bush: Snowdon is MASSIVE!
For a detailed description of the ascent of Snowdon, see November 2005 Trip Report.
Yr Wyddfa, the mountain commonly known as Mount Snowdon, is the highest peak in Wales and England put together. The Snowdon range encompasses several 3000-footers, a number of notable lower peaks (such as the Lliwedd), and a collection of ridges and corries that put most ranges to shame. It is, in fact, the most complete mountain massif in Wales, and it has much to offer for both walkers and climbers.
Like Tryfan, Yr Wyddfa has no particularly poor sides, although its finest aspect is undoubtably from Llyn Llydaw to the East. In form, Snowdon has a classic triangular peak, bulky yet finely wrought, and sufficently craggy on all sides to give an impression of great size. In periods of deep cold and snow, the Snowdon horseshoe bears an uncanny resemblance to Everest and its satellite peaks ... although on a smaller scale, of course!
There are many routes to the top. Perhaps the most-used is the Llanberis tourist track, a well-constructed, gentle highway extending from Llanberis towards the summit, following the railway track for much of the ascent. This is regarded by most serious hillwalkers as a terminally boring slog. Not only is this the least challenging route, it is also the worst in terms of the scenic value of Snowdon itself. More experienced mountaineers will prefer to use the Pyg Track, the Traverse of Crib Goch, or one of the less frequented trails such as the Rhyd Du Path or South Ridge.
Whichever way you approach the summit, Yr Wyddfa is a fine mountain, one of the very best, and in my opinion the cafe on the summit and railway track do not significantly detract from the experience. It's a busy hill, granted, but then again so is Scafell Pike, or Gable, or Bowfell. If you want solitude, stay away from the greater mountains of the UK!
The only reason I'm not putting Snowdon on my list of the Best Half Dozen is because I hate to displace any of the ones on the list so far. Wainwright was right: it's so hard choosing the hills you like best!
 From Pen yr Ole Wen |
 From the Miner's Track |
 From below Glaslyn |
 Looking across to Crib Goch |
 Snow on the summit |
 From the Pyg Track |
 From Glyder Fach |
 From Pen yr Ole Wen |
