Which Snowdon Path Has the Best Views?
Staying near Caernarfon at Crashpad Lodges? Here’s how Llanberis, Pyg, Miners, Rhyd Ddu, Snowdon Ranger, and Watkin compare for scenery, difficulty and drive time in Snowdonia National Park.
Climbing Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) is a must-do experience when visiting North Wales. With six main routes to the summit, each offering different scenery and challenges, it can be tricky to decide which one is right for you. Some paths are more accessible, while others showcase Snowdon’s dramatic landscapes in full force. So, which Snowdon path has the best views? And if you’re staying at Crashpad Lodges, which one is closest? Let’s explore.
Llanberis Path – Gentle Gradients and Valley Views
Distance: 9 miles (round trip)
Start point: Llanberis
Views: The Llanberis Path is the most gradual and accessible of the Snowdon routes. Along the way you’ll enjoy sweeping views over Llyn Padarn, the village of Llanberis, and the valleys stretching out below. While not as dramatic as some of the higher routes, it’s a steady climb with rewarding views — perfect for first-time climbers.
Pyg Track – Rugged and Dramatic
Distance: 7 miles (round trip)
Start point: Pen-y-Pass
Views: The Pyg Track is one of the most scenic and direct routes to the summit. Almost immediately, you’re treated to spectacular views of Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn, two of Snowdonia’s most iconic glacial lakes. It’s rocky and steeper than Llanberis, but the views are unbeatable.
Miners’ Track – Lakeside Beauty
Distance: 8 miles (round trip)
Start point: Pen-y-Pass
Views: Starting gently, the Miners’ Track takes you past a series of lakes, including Llyn Teyrn, Llyn Llydaw, and Glaslyn. The first half feels almost leisurely, with mirror-like lakes and reflections of the surrounding peaks. The climb steepens considerably after Glaslyn, but the scenery makes it worth the effort.
Rhyd Ddu Path – Peaceful and Panoramic
Distance: 8.5 miles (round trip)
Start point: Rhyd Ddu
Views: The Rhyd Ddu Path is known for being one of the quietest ways up Snowdon. It rewards hikers with expansive views over the Nantlle Ridge, down to the coast, and across the heart of Snowdonia. If you’re looking for solitude and big skies, this is the path for you.
Snowdon Ranger Path – Historic and Varied
Distance: 8 miles (round trip)
Start point: near Llyn Cwellyn
Views: This historic route was once used by guides leading Victorian tourists to the summit. It offers varied scenery, from the shores of Llyn Cwellyn to wide open mountain landscapes. It’s quieter than the Llanberis Path but a little steeper in places.
Watkin Path – Waterfalls and Wild Beauty
Distance: 8 miles (round trip)
Start point: Nant Gwynant
Views: Many consider the Watkin Path the most beautiful way up Snowdon. It begins with the impressive Watkin Falls, then meanders through ancient woodland and riversides before climbing steeply to join the South Ridge. The final section is the toughest of all the routes, but the varied scenery makes it a favourite for experienced hikers.
| Path | Distance (round trip) | Difficulty | Highlights | Drive time from Crashpad Lodges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Llanberis Path | 9 miles | Moderate | Sweeping valley views, Llyn Padarn, most gradual route | ≈ Walk to start of Llanberis Path from Crashpad Lodges - 10 minutes |
| Pyg Track | 7 miles | Challenging | Rugged terrain, views of Glaslyn & Llyn Llydaw | ≈ 30 mins |
| Miners’ Track | 8 miles | Challenging | Lakeside walking, Glaslyn & Llyn Llydaw reflections | ≈ 30 mins |
| Rhyd Ddu Path | 8.5 miles | Moderate/Challenging | Quieter trail, Nantlle Ridge & coastal views | ≈ 35 mins |
| Snowdon Ranger | 8 miles | Moderate | Historic route, views of Llyn Cwellyn | ≈ 25 mins |
| Watkin Path | 8 miles | Challenging/Strenuous | Watkin Falls, woodland & rivers, toughest final climb | ≈ 35 mins |
So, Which Path Has the Best Views?
For classic Snowdon views of lakes and rugged peaks, the Pyg Track and Miners’ Track are hard to beat. They take you right past some of the most photographed landscapes in Snowdonia. For something quieter but equally rewarding, the Watkin Path offers waterfalls, rivers, and dramatic ridges.
That said, every route has its own unique beauty — your choice will depend on your experience, the conditions, and what kind of scenery you’d like to enjoy along the way.
The Closest Snowdon Path to Crashpad Lodges
If you’re staying at Crashpad Lodges in Caernarfon, the Llanberis Path is the closest and most convenient starting point for your climb. Just a short drive from the lodges, it offers a gradual ascent with wide-reaching views over Llyn Padarn and the surrounding valleys. It’s ideal if you want a straightforward but rewarding way to the summit without travelling far from your accommodation.
Plan Your Snowdon Adventure with Crashpad Lodges
Whichever path you choose, Snowdon promises unforgettable views and a true sense of achievement. Staying at Crashpad Lodges gives you the perfect base to relax and recharge after your climb — whether you’ve tackled the lakeside Miners’ Track, the dramatic Pyg Track, or the conveniently close Llanberis Path.