Hiking Mount Snowdon via the Llanberis Path: Easy Trail Guide to the Summit

Overview

Distance: 14.5 km
Average Duration: 5–8 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy
Total Elevation Gain: 975 m
Start/Finish: Snowdon Mountain Railway's pay & display car park (LL55 4TT)

Note: The Llanberis Path starts in the village of Llanberis, at the end of Victoria Terrace, just past the Snowdon Mountain Railway station and opposite the Royal Victoria Hotel. There is convenient parking and toilets nearby. If I did this hike again, I would arrive very early to enjoy the summit before the crowds and maximize daylight for the descent.

The Llanberis Path is the most popular route for hiking Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, offering a wide, well-marked trail, stunning views, and a rewarding summit experience suitable for most reasonably fit walkers.

Planning Your Hike to Mount Snowdon

Getting There

I stayed in Llanberis the night before my hike, which is ideal for early starts. The village has a range of accommodation options, from B&Bs to small hotels. The Snowdon Mountain Railway pay & display car park is perfect for hikers driving to the start.

Best Season to Hike Mount Snowdon

I completed the Snowdon hike in May with beautiful weather and temperatures around 20°C at the base. Late spring through early autumn is the best time to hike Mount Snowdon, as trails are clear and snow is minimal. Winter hikes require proper equipment and experience due to icy sections, especially near the "Killer Convex."

Permits & Fees

No hiking permits are required. While there is a Snowdon Mountain Railway train running alongside the Llanberis Path, it wasn’t operational on the day I hiked. Most reasonably fit walkers won’t need it.

Water & Food

Carry at least two litres of water and high-energy snacks. The summit cafe, Hafod Eryri, is seasonal and may not be open depending on wind and weather, so plan accordingly.

Where to Stay: Llanberis and Surrounding Areas

Llanberis is the best base for hiking Mount Snowdon. Staying here allows an early start and easy access to the Llanberis Path. Hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs are plentiful, with beautiful views of Snowdonia National Park.

My Mount Snowdon Hiking Experience

In May, my girlfriend and I set off from Llanberis to hike Mount Snowdon via the Llanberis Path. The morning was clear, warm, and around 20 degrees, perfect hiking conditions. From the start, the path was wide and gradually rising, making the entire hike feel easy.

About halfway up, I noticed some walkers struggling. Two gentlemen were assisting an older lady down the path. While the Snowdon Mountain Railway runs alongside the trail, it wasn’t working that day, and most reasonably fit hikers wouldn’t need any help.

The path continues as a slow, steady gradient with loose stones and uneven ground, requiring good footwear but no scrambling. Wildlife sightings were minimal, but the views across Snowdonia were breathtaking.

As we neared the summit, we encountered a little snow, surprising given the warm temperatures at the base. The final stretch was straightforward, and we reached the Snowdon summit in just over two hours—a quicker ascent than expected. The summit was busy, and the cafe was closed, but we enjoyed taking photos and soaking in the views.

Descending the same path, it was clear why the Llanberis Path is the most popular Mount Snowdon route. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it suitable for most hikers. Llanberis village and the surrounding scenery are stunning, and everyone should experience a hike up Snowdon at least once.

Final Thoughts: Why Hike Mount Snowdon

Hiking Mount Snowdon via the Llanberis Path is a rewarding and approachable walk for all levels of hikers. My experience was relaxed, scenic, and surprisingly fast. Even though it’s the easiest route, the mountain still commands respect, especially in poor weather.

For those planning a hike in Snowdonia National Park, start early, wear good footwear, carry water and snacks, and take your time enjoying the views. Reaching the Snowdon summit is an unforgettable experience and a highlight of hiking in Wales.