If there’s one thing North Wales is famous for, it’s the impressive mountains in Snowdonia. Home to the highest mountain in Wales and England, Snowdonia is an adventure playground for hiking enthusiasts near and far.
From the family-friendly peak of Moel Siabod to the daring grade 1 scramble of Crib Goch, Snowdonia is the perfect place for novice hikers and expert climbers alike.
Check out some of our favourite Snowdonia mountains here. The mountains are calling…
Snowdon (1085m)
To start our list of top mountains in Snowdonia we have the iconic Mount Snowdon. As one of the most recognisable landmarks in North Wales, Snowdon stands tall at an impressive 1085m. Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales, attracting thousands of visitors every year. (Check out some more interesting Snowdonia facts here!).
You have a choice of six routes up Snowdon, the Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, Miners Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd Du and the Snowdon Rangers Path. Each path has its own individual character and unique views, but all offer a stunning Snowdonian experience. Whichever route you choose, there are plenty of places to stay near Snowdon.
Upon reaching the summit of Snowdon, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across Snowdonia, Anglesey, Pembrokeshire and even Ireland. If hiking Wales’ highest mountain sounds a little too adventurous, then you can always catch the Snowdon Mountain Railway from Llanberis and witness the magnificent views without the challenging climb.
Looking for an extra challenge? Why not take on an ultra-marathon or trail run up Wales’ highest mountain? Check out these events in Snowdonia for more information.
Cader Idris (893m)
Next up is Cader Idris (or Cadair Iris), situated in the southern end of Snowdonia National Park. The distinct shape of southern Snowdonia’s highest peak can be seen towering over the market town of Dolgellau.
Cader Idris is a popular peak to conquer and it’s not hard to see why, with its rugged landscape and views to rival the mighty Snowdon itself. There are three routes to the summit – the Pony Path, Minffordd Path and Llanfihangel y Pennant Path. Each offering a challenging climb, taking between five to six hours. Cader Idris is home to some of the best views in Snowdonia, one of the most beautiful places in Wales.
Crib Goch (923m)
The Crib Goch scramble from Pen-y-Pass is known as one of the best scrambles in the UK. With dramatic hair-raising drops on either side, the thin rocky ridge should only be attempted by experienced climbers. Crib Goch is by far one of the most challenging mountains in Snowdonia.
Technically an arête, Crib Goch can be accessed via the Pyg Track of Snowdon. This exhilarating Grade 1 scramble offers unbeatable views of Snowdonia and Mount Snowdon itself – just make sure you are fully prepared before taking on this tough climb.
Tryfan (918m)
As a training ground for Sir Edmund Hillary, the first climber to reach the summit of Everest, Tryfan offers an exhilarating climbing experience. Tryfan is located between the picturesque villages of Capel Curig and Nant Peris. The climb to its peak is tough, with each route involving some form of a scramble to the summit.
To enjoy views of the towering Tryfan, without the strenuous climb, head for a gentle circular walk around Llyn Ogwen instead. Llyn Ogwen, home to one of our favourite walks in Snowdonia, is said to be the resting place of Excalibur and provides dramatic views of both Tryfan and the Glyderau.
Garnedd Ugain (1065m)
As the second-highest mountain in Snowdonia, Garnedd Ugain forms part of the Snowdon Massif, located just outside of Llanberis. As part of the famous Snowdon Horsehoe, Garnedd Ugain (or Crib-y-Ddysgl) is accessed via the notorious ridge of Crib Goch and therefore climbing experience is essential.
From its summit, the pyramid-shaped Mount Snowdon dominates the view along with breathtaking ridges and magnificent views of North Wales and afar. From here you can continue along the horseshoe to Snowdon itself, taking in the exquisite scenery along the way.
Moel Siabod (872m)
If you’re looking for a classic Snowdonia peak, without the crowds, then Moel Siabod is the mountain for you. Located approximately 10km east of Snowdon, sitting above the village of Betws-y-Coed, Moel Siabod is part of the Moelwynion mountain range.
The route to its summit and back takes around 4-5 hours and can be completed by the whole family. From enchanting forests, idyllic lakes and even a few exposed rocky scrambles, Moel Siabod has it all. Plus, the views of Snowdonia National Park from the summit are well worth the hike!
Glyder Fawr (999m)
Glyder Fawr, translating to “Big Mound” is the highest peak in the Glyderau Range and the fifth highest mountain in Snowdonia. Characterised by a series of tors formed during the Ice Age, the summit of Glyder Fawr provides impressive views.
The rocky mountaintop can be challenging in places, but the views are exceptional. With stunning scenes across the Ogwen Valley, the Cerneddau Range and of the iconic Snowdon Horseshoe.
Holiday Cottages in Snowdonia
If you’re heading to explore the majestic Snowdonia mountains, then be sure to check out our Snowdonia accommodation. From cosy cottages with mountain views to luxury accommodation with hot tubs, perfect for a relaxing soak after a good days hiking!
Have these mountains in Snowdonia inspired you to take on an adventure in North Wales? Here’s our guide to climbing in North Wales for those wanting to experience rock climbing or bouldering in Snowdonia and beyond.
Image Credits: Andy Powell Andy Harbach Robert J Heath (CC BY 2.0)
