Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via Rhyd Ddu

This is a great route taking you up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via the Rhyd Ddu Path. This is perhaps the quieter alternative to many of the other routes up Yr Wyddfa. You approach the mountain from the western slopes, starting in the small village of Rhyd Ddu. The start of the Rhyd Ddu path follows a track that was once used for the Bwlch Cwm Llan slate quarry, before continuing the climb to the summit, which involves rocky, steep terrain and can be a bit narrow in places. The wind can get pretty biting towards the top, so come prepared with layering and proper hiking boots.

The Rhyd Ddu Path gets difficult around Bwlch Main as you walk along the narrow ridge between Clawdd Coch and Yr Wyddfa. A good head for heights is needed for this section. There is a visitor centre at the Yr Wyddfa summit, Hafod Eryri, with cafe, and toilet facilities, which is run by the Snowdon Mountain Railway and only open when trains are running, which is usually from early May to late October and dependent on the weather. Once you've had your fill of the breathtaking views, head back via the same route.

Though the Rhyd Ddu path has been attempted by mountain bikers, it’s very technical and generally not advised as most of the path involves steep, rocky sections and a very narrow ridge. Mountain biking is possible on Yr Wyddfa, the most stubble paths for these are the Llanberis Path and the Snowdon Rangers Path. Keep in mind, however, that in order to avoid incident, cyclers are asked not to use these paths to and from the summit between 10am and 5pm from May to the end of September, according to the Snowdon Voluntary Cycling Agreement, as the paths get extremely busy.

Dogs might struggle with some sections of the Rhyd Ddu Path, particularly towards the summit where there is a narrow ridge that is not ideal for a dog, so only attempt it with extremely well-behaved dogs, who are capable of the journey.