At the foot of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), The Royal Victoria Hotel in Llanberis offers the perfect base to explore the six main walking routes to Wales’ highest peak. Each trail offers something different-whether you’re looking for a scenic climb, a peaceful escape, or an exhilarating challenge.
When comparing Yr Wyddfa routes, it helps to consider the following factors:
+ Challenge (how exposed or adventurous it feels)
+ Popularity (how busy or peaceful the route tends to be)
Here’s our guide to help you pick your perfect path.
1. The Friendly Climb
(Llanberis Path) - With a gentle gradient and a well-defined path, it’s ideal for beginners, families, or those simply looking for a steady, scenic walk. Rated just 1 out of 5 for challenge, it allows you to soak up the beauty of Snowdonia without breaking too much of a sweat. Its popularity means you’ll likely be sharing the trail with plenty of fellow walkers, but the ease of access and welcoming nature of the route make it a perfect choice for a relaxed adventure.
Start Point: Right on our doorstep
Challenge: 1/5
Popularity: 4/5
Ideal for: Beginners, relaxed walkers, and guests at The Royal Victoria Hotel who want to step straight out and start climbing.
2. The Iconic Way
(Pyg Track) - With a moderate challenge rating of 2 out of 5, this route is perfect for confident hikers who enjoy rugged, rocky trails and panoramic mountain views. It’s a great choice for those looking to experience the drama of Snowdonia without venturing too far into technical terrain. While it’s a popular option, the path feels spacious and the views more than make up for any company along the way. After your climb, a well-earned drink at the Eryri Bar awaits back at The Royal Victoria Hotel.
Start Point: Pen-y-Pass
Challenge: 2/5
Popularity: 3/5
Ideal for: Confident hikers who enjoy rugged paths, big views, and a rewarding drink at the Eryri Bar.
3. The Lakeside Climber
(Miners’ Track) - Starting with a gentle walk alongside crystal-clear mountain lakes, the path gradually transforms into a more challenging climb as you near the summit. With a challenge rating of 2 out of 5, it’s ideal for walkers who want a bit of everything - peaceful stretches, dramatic landscapes, and a sense of accomplishment. Its moderate popularity means you’ll have company, but plenty of space to enjoy the views. A perfect choice for those who like their hikes to come with contrast- and a comfy bed waiting back at The Royal Victoria Hotel.
Start Point: Pen-y-Pass
Challenge: 2/5
Popularity: 3/5
Ideal for: Walkers looking for variety-from lakeside strolls to steeper climbs.
4. The Scenic Challenge
(Watkin Path) - Starting from Nant Gwynant, this route is one for seasoned walkers who relish a good challenge—rated 4 out of 5 for difficulty. The path climbs through ancient woodland, past cascading waterfalls, and opens out into sweeping mountain panoramas that few other routes can rival. It’s one of the quieter trails, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and stunning scenery.
Start Point: Nant Gwynant
Challenge: 4/5
Popularity: 2/5
Ideal for: Experienced walkers who want spectacular views and a physical test.
5. The Peaceful Ridge
(Rhyd Ddu Path) - With a challenge rating of 3 out of 5, it offers a steady yet satisfying climb, perfect for walkers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more meditative mountain experience. The path follows a scenic ridgeline with uninterrupted views across Eryri, making it a favourite for those who value stillness and wide-open landscapes. As the least busy of all the Yr Wyddfa routes, it’s ideal for peaceful exploration.
Start Point: Rhyd Ddu
Challenge: 3/5
Popularity: 1/5
Ideal for: Those seeking serenity, sweeping views, and fewer fellow hikers.
6. The Heritage Route
(Ranger Path) - With a moderate challenge rating of 2 out of 5, it’s ideal for nature lovers and those who appreciate a slower, more reflective journey through Snowdonia’s rich landscape. This lesser-trodden trail offers peaceful surroundings, stunning natural beauty, and a real sense of connection to the mountain’s past. Its low popularity means you’ll enjoy plenty of quiet moments.
Start Point: Llyn Cwellyn
Challenge: 2/5
Popularity: 1/5
Ideal for: Nature lovers and those who enjoy a historic, quieter ascent.
Where to Stay: The Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis
Stay just steps from the mountain with:
+ Slate rooms with super king beds and rainfall showers
+ 30 acres of tranquil gardens and woodland
+ Eryri Bar & Lounge for post-hike drinks
+ Padarn Restaurant for hearty Welsh dishes
Book your stay direct for the best rates
Yr Wyddfa Routes: FAQs
What are the 6 routes up Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)?
The six main walking routes are:
+ Llanberis Path (The Friendly Climb)
+ Pyg Track (The Iconic Way)
+ Miners’ Track (The Lakeside Climber)
+ Watkin Path (The Scenic Challenge)
+ Rhyd Ddu Path (The Peaceful Ridge)
+ Snowdon Ranger Path (The Heritage Route)
Which is the prettiest route up Snowdon?
The Watkin Path is widely considered the most scenic, passing waterfalls, forest, and open ridgelines. If you're chasing views, this is your route.
Is Yr Wyddfa easy to climb?
It depends on the route. For beginners, the Llanberis Path is the most manageable-long but with a gentle incline. With good fitness and preparation, most walkers can reach the summit.
Which is harder to climb, Snowdon or Pen y Fan?
Yr Wyddfa is taller (1,085m vs 886m) and has more varied routes. Most people find Snowdon more challenging, especially via paths like Crib Goch or Watkin.
Which Snowdon route is hardest?
Crib Goch is the most technically difficult and exposed, but among the main six walking routes, Watkin Path is the toughest due to its steep final section.
What is the easiest route up Snowdon for beginners?
The Llanberis Path is the easiest route-wide, well-maintained, and starting from the village of Llanberis, just outside our hotel entrance.