Pyg Track: Snowdonia Hiking Guide

Ever wondered what it feels like to conquer Wales’ highest peak without breaking the bank or your back? The Pyg Track on Snowdon (or Yr Wyddfa, if you’re feeling fancy with your Welsh) might just be your golden ticket to mountain glory. This isn’t your average Sunday stroll – we’re talking about a proper adventure that’ll have you bragging to your mates for months.

Why the Pyg Track Will Blow Your Mind

Picture this: you’re scrambling up rocky paths with jaw-dropping views of glacial lakes stretching out below you, towering peaks on either side, and the promise of conquering Wales’ roof waiting at the top. The Pyg Track is a rocky and difficult path with several steep climbs, and while it’s one of the shortest routes up Yr Wyddfa, it is also one of the most rugged and challenging routes to the summit.

But here’s the thing – “challenging” doesn’t mean impossible. The climb via the Pyg track is strenuous but should be possible for most able-bodied and moderately fit people (and dogs). That’s right, even your four-legged hiking buddy can tackle this beast!

The Numbers That Matter

Let’s get the nitty-gritty out of the way:

Distance: 8 miles (there and back) Total Climb: 723m (2,372 ft) Time: Approx 6 hours (there and back) Difficulty: Hard/Strenuous (but totally doable!) Start Point: Pen-y-Pass Car Park

The Mystery Behind the Name

Nobody really knows why it’s called the Pyg Track, which makes it even cooler, right? One possibility is that it was named after the pass it leads through, Bwlch y Moch (Pigs’ Pass)—Pyg is sometimes spelt as ‘Pig Track’. Another possibility is that its name is derived from the fact that miners used the path to carry ‘pyg’ (black tar) to the copper mines on Yr Wyddfa. There’s even a theory that it’s named after the legendary Pen y Gwryd Hotel where the 1953 Everest team trained. How’s that for mountain royalty?

Getting There: The Parking Nightmare (And How to Beat It)

Right, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – parking. Pen y Pass car park operates on a pre-booking system from April 5th until November 2nd, 2025, and you’ll need to book at least 1 hour in advance through JustPark.

2025 Parking Costs:

• Up to 8 hours: £20
• 8-12 hours: £30
• Full day: £40

Here’s the insider secret: the car park fills up before 7am during peak times, sometimes even before sunrise on bank holidays. But don’t panic! There are brilliant alternatives:

The Smart Money Move: Park & Ride

Park in Nant Peris for just £5 per day and catch the Snowdon Sherpa bus to Pen-y-Pass for £2 single or £3 return. The bus runs every 30 minutes, takes about 15 minutes, and you’ll actually enjoy the scenic ride up the Llanberis Pass.

Secret Parking Spots

There’s considerable roadside parking around the Pen y Gwyrd Hotel for £2 for 4 hours or £4 for the day, though it adds a 20-minute walk to Pen-y-Pass. It’s a proper Welsh warm-up!

The Adventure Begins: What to Expect

The Opening Act

From Pen-y-Pass, follow the blue Pyg Track signposts along a well-laid track that steadily ascends through patches of boulders. The path starts gentle enough – don’t worry, the mountain’s just lulling you into a false sense of security.

The Plot Twist

After about 1.5 kilometres, you’ll reach Bwlch y Moch, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Llyn Llydaw and its iconic causeway. This is where things get properly exciting. The views open up like a Welsh version of Middle Earth, and you’ll understand why people become obsessed with this place.

The Main Event

The Snowdon Pyg Track follows a route along the side of the mountain above Llyn Llydaw, giving it more of an aerial view than the Miner’s track in the valley below. You’re basically getting a bird’s-eye view of some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Britain.

The Grand Finale

The Pyg eventually merges with the Miners’ Track and continues up to join the Llanberis Path at Bwlch Glas and onwards to the summit. The final push involves stone steps and can get busy, but the summit views (weather permitting) make every sweaty step worth it.

Pro Tips from Someone Who’s Been There

Weather Reality Check

Welsh weather is about as predictable as a cat on caffeine. Weather conditions in Snowdonia change dramatically, so pack waterproof gear and warm clothes. It might be sunny in the car park and snowing at the summit – proper mountain mood swings.

What to Pack

• Waterproof jacket (non-negotiable)
• Walking boots with good grip – the trail is a mix of easy-walking gravel tracks, hard stony paths and loose rocky scree
• Plenty of food and water (you’ll burn more calories than a marathon)
• Layers – mountain weather is basically playing weather roulette
• Camera – because if you don’t Instagram it, did it really happen?

Timing is Everything

One experienced hiker managed the Pyg Track in 1:50 to ascend, with 3:50 total including breaks, but most people should plan for 5-7 hours. Don’t rush it – this isn’t a race, it’s an experience.

The Secret Return Route

Here’s where it gets clever: take the Pyg Track up and return via the Miners’ Track for an interesting circular walk that’s no more difficult and passes two lovely lakes. You get two different perspectives of the mountain, and those lakes are perfect for a cheeky wild swim if you’re brave enough!

When the Summit Gets Crowded

The final section can be a constant procession of hikers, especially when the steam train arrives from Llanberis. But here’s the thing – everyone up there has earned their place through sweat and determination. It’s like a very exclusive, very sweaty club.

The summit has Hafod Eryri, the Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre and the UK’s highest visitor centre, with toilets, a cafe, and Snowdon souvenirs, though it’s only open when the railway operates (typically late spring to October).

Alternative Options to Consider

The Crib Goch Temptation

You’ll see a turn-off to Crib Goch – an extremely dangerous knife-edge ridge that should only be attempted by experienced mountain walkers, especially in wet weather, wind, snow, mist or ice. Save that adrenaline rush for when you’ve got more experience under your belt.

The Miner’s Track Alternative

If the Pyg Track sounds too intense, the Miner’s Track starts from the same car park but follows a gentler route past the lakes. You can always upgrade to the Pyg on your next visit!

Making It Affordable

Mountain adventures don’t have to break the bank:

• Skip the expensive Pen-y-Pass parking – use the park & ride
• Pack your own lunch – mountain cafe prices will make your eyes water
• Go midweek – fewer crowds, easier parking, same epic views
• Late September/early October – can be a great time to visit with better weather and fewer crowds

The Bottom Line

The Pyg Track isn’t just a hike – it’s a proper Welsh adventure that’ll test your mettle and reward you with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Britain. It’s great for families or less experienced hikers who want to make the climb but equally enjoyable for those with many peaks under their belt as the vistas really are breathtaking.

Sure, it’s challenging, but that’s what makes reaching the top feel like such an achievement. When you’re standing on Wales’ highest point, looking out over a landscape that’s inspired legends and challenged adventurers for centuries, you’ll understand why this mountain gets under people’s skin.

So lace up those boots, charge your camera, and get ready for an adventure that’ll give you bragging rights for life. The Pyg Track is waiting – are you up for the challenge?

Ready to tackle Snowdon? Start planning your adventure now, book that parking (seriously, don’t leave it to chance), and prepare for one of the most rewarding days you’ll have in the great British outdoors. Wales’ roof is calling – time to answer!

Important Disclaimer

Mountain Safety Warning: Hiking Snowdon via the Pyg Track involves inherent risks including but not limited to: rapidly changing weather conditions, steep and potentially slippery terrain, rockfall, and altitude-related challenges. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace proper preparation, experience, or professional guidance.

Your Responsibility: Before attempting this hike, ensure you:

• Have appropriate fitness levels and hiking experience
• Check current weather conditions and forecasts
• Inform someone of your planned route and return time
• Carry proper mountain safety equipment including first aid supplies
• Know how to use a map and compass or GPS device
• Understand when to turn back for safety reasons

Conditions Change: Mountain conditions, parking arrangements, prices, and access routes can change without notice. Always verify current information with official sources including Snowdonia National Park Authority and weather services before your trip.

Personal Risk: Participation in mountain activities is at your own risk. The author and publisher accept no responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage that may result from following this guide. Mountain rescue services, while excellent, may not always be immediately available in emergency situations.

Weather Dependency: Snowdon’s weather can be extreme and change rapidly. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. No summit is worth risking your safety.

Always prioritize safety over summit success. The mountain will be there tomorrow – make sure you are too.