Snowdon via the South Ridge and Rhyd-ddu Path

Description

(D/A) The start is the large pay and display car park at Rhyd-ddu (grid ref. SH571526) adjacent to the Welsh Highland Railway station. Walk to the Rhyd-ddu village end of the station, cross the tracks using the purpose-built crossing and follow the clear track that heads southeast uphill towards Bwlch-Cwm Llan. It is a straightforward walk with the track allowing a fast pace along what was once an access road to the quarries and mines to the north of Yr Aran. The route passes through a number of areas where evidence of slate quarrying is evident and soon you pass two small lakes on your right hand side.

(1) Reaching Bwlch-Cwm Llan (grid ref SH605521), you are in the col between Yr Aran on your right and Snowdon to your left. Ahead is the vast cwm located below Snowdon's south face. Turn left here (north) and start the walk up Snowdon's South Ridge. The path is always easy to follow offering improving views as height is gained. A few sections require the occasional use of hands but nothing is difficult or beyond the reach of normal walkers. Generally speaking you have steep crags on your right and gentler slopes to your left at least until the point where the Rhyd-ddu path joins the ridge for the final section to the summit.

(2) From the point where the Rhyd-ddu path joins the South Ridge (grid ref SH604536), you follow a narrowing arete (Bwlch Main) for a short but exciting section of path. There is no technical difficulty although a head for heights is required. Soon the path climbs more steeply again for the final climb to the summit. This is soon recognised by the crowds of people, who have been noticeable for their absence so far on this route. If you have never been to Snowdon's summit before, then the view is recommended especially east over Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw. If, like me, you have been there before, then a short break away from the summit area is far preferable perhaps gazing at the wonderful series of summits and crags forming Y Lliwedd.

(3) To return to Rhyd-ddu retrace you steps across Bwlch Main and at the far end of the arete bear right and follow the clear path as it zigzags down the mountainside towards Rhyd-ddu. The descent is good and progress fast on the well graded path. As you near the bottom, the path twists and turns a little as it crosses the rocky landscape. Soon you reach the track used on the outward half of the route (grid ref. SH582524). Turn right here for the final section along the track back to the start (D/A).