Planning to climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)? This guide explains where to park, how to use the Park & Ride and the best ways to reach the mountain by bus or train – whether you’re starting from Llanberis or Pen-y-Pass.
With limited spaces at popular car parks and a choice of starting points, it pays to plan ahead. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about parking, park-and-ride services and public transport options around Llanberis and Pen-y-Pass – so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying your climbing adventure.
Still planning your Yr Wyddfa route? Find out which path is right for you here.
Quick Guide to Yr Wyddfa Parking & Transport
Best for families: Llanberis – walk straight from the village.
Best for experienced hikers: Pen-y-Pass – pre-book parking via JustPark.
Cheapest option: Park & Ride from Nant Peris (£5/day).
Most sustainable: Snowdon Sherpa Bus (S1/S2 routes).
By train: Nearest station – Bangor (10 miles).
The Popular Llanberis Path
The Llanberis Path is the most popular route up Yr Wyddfa – and for good reason. Starting directly from the village, it offers a steady climb that’s accessible for first-timers, families and anyone looking for a well-marked, scenic trail.
Unlike other routes, Llanberis gives you the luxury of facilities like cafes and public toilets close at hand. You’ll find information boards and way-markers to guide you every step of the way.
Parking in Llanberis:
There are several pay-and-display car parks dotted around the village, including:
- Parking for Snowdon (LL55 4TY) – just a few minutes walk from the Llanberis path, opposite the Snowdon Mountain Railway station.
- Padarn Country Park Car Park (LL55 4TY) – large, central and just a short walk from the trail.
- Electric Mountain Car Park (LL55 4UR) – convenient for town facilities.
- Street parking near the lake and along the main road (there are some restrictions).
Expect to pay around £8–10 per day and arrive early during weekends or school holidays when demand peaks.
Guests staying with us can simply walk to the start of the trail from the hotel – no need to move the car. It’s one of the reasons Llanberis remains the easiest and most enjoyable starting point for climbing Yr Wyddfa for our guests.
If you’re travelling with friends or family who’d rather take in the views from comfort, the Snowdon Mountain Railway runs alongside the walking route, taking passengers up to the summit (weather permitting).
The Scenic Pen-y-Pass
For more experienced hikers, Pen-y-Pass offers a dramatic start to the mountain, with routes including the Pyg Track and Miners’ Track. Both deliver breathtaking views of the peaks and lakes below, but they do require a higher level of fitness and preparation.
Parking at Pen-y-Pass can be challenging as it has fewer than 70 spaces and they fill up fast (often before 7am in peak season). Spaces must be pre-booked via the JustPark website and cost around £18–20 per day.
If you miss out, don’t worry. There’s a Park & Ride service from Nant Peris just down the valley that connects to Pen-y-Pass.
While Pen-y-Pass is stunning, it’s not always practical for families or casual walkers. For most visitors, Llanberis offers a smoother experience and a more relaxing start and finish to the day.
Park & Ride
The Snowdon Sherpa Bus Service is the hero of Eryri’s transport network. It links Llanberis, Nant Peris, Pen-y-Pass, Beddgelert, Caernarfon and Betws-y-Coed – ideal if you’re looking to explore the area without the stress of parking.
Here’s how it works:
- Park at Nant Peris Car Park (LL55 4UF) for around £5 per day.
- Catch the S1 or S2 Sherpa Bus up to Pen-y-Pass.
- Services run roughly every 20–30 minutes in peak periods (check timetables before travelling).
Tickets are available on board with contactless payment and drivers are used to helping walkers with kit and poles.For the latest timetables and route maps, visit Snowdon Sherpa Bus Timetable.The Sherpa service is not only convenient but also helps reduce congestion on mountain roads, making it the most sustainable way to reach the higher routes.
Relaxing Train Travel
Arriving by train? The nearest mainline station is Bangor, around 10 miles from Llanberis. From there, you can catch the Sherpa S2 bus directly to the village or arrange a taxi to the hotel in around 20 minutes.
Once you’ve arrived in Llanberis, you’ll find everything within walking distance: the start of the Llanberis Path, lakeside walks, cafés and our welcoming hotel.
If you’d like to experience the landscape at a gentler pace, hop aboard the Llanberis Lake Railway – a charming heritage train that glides along the shores of Llyn Padarn, offering spectacular views of the mountains reflected in the water.
Base Your Adventure in Llanberis
Whether you’re taking your first steps up Yr Wyddfa or chasing your next climbing challenge, Llanberis offers everything you need in one place with a range of walking routes, public transport, lake views, local attractions and hearty food to refuel after your hike.
Staying with us means convenience and comfort including secure parking, warm Welsh hospitality and a delicious breakfast to set you up for the day ahead. After your climb, unwind in our Eryri Bar & Lounge, kick off your walking boots in our relaxing rooms or stroll through our 30 acres of woodland gardens with views stretching across the lakes.
Let us be your base for adventure. Book your stay direct with us today for our best available rate.