Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park is famous for its rugged mountain scenery. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is Wales’ highest mountain and encapsulates the beauty of 823 square miles of National Park.
The best views of Snowdon are found on the mountain itself with the PYG Track, Miners Track and South Ridge being the most scenic paths. To see the whole mountain; the view from Llynnau Mymbyr is striking, making it a popular spot for photographers.
This blog looks at the best views on Yr Wyddfa’s (Snowdon) footpaths including the most dramatic views of the mountain itself before zooming out and considering the most scenic spots to view the mountain as a whole.
Which Snowdon footpath has the best views?
Six footpaths weave their way through glorious terrain to the highest point in Wales. On these trails are picturesque vistas plus the most immediate and best views of the summit. All these paths have eye-catching views.
The South Ridge and PYG & Miners Track are our top picks as they have the dual benefit of the grandest views of the summit itself coupled with changing terrain and various features along the footpath which add interest and excitement to the route as a whole.
The South Ridge
The scenery on Yr Wyddfa’s (Snowdon) South Ridge is varied and culminates in an exhilarating spur which leads to the summit. It is like walking in the sky and the landscape on both sides of the ridge is some of the best in the National Park.
PYG & Miners Track
If you want to see dramatic cliffs, beautiful lakes and views of Yr Wyddfa’s (Snowdon) industrial heritage the circular route of the PYG Track & Miners Track has it all.
Good views on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon’s) other footpaths
The other footpaths on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) have enchanting views. Here are some of the best from the other footpaths.
The Watkin Path
The Watkin Path is impressive as the footpath follows the Afon Cwm Llan river upstream.
The best bit is the waterfalls on the lower section of the river. The views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and Y Lliwedd from the Bwlch Saethau are glorious. A slight detour from the footpath here will reveal grand views of Crib Goch, Garnedd Ugain and the lakes of Glaslyn & Llyn Lydaw.
The Watkin path has the added benefit of being one of the quieter routes.
The Llanberis Path
It is not until the very top when the Llanberis Path joins the other footpaths does it have a really impactful view of the summit.
That said, the section of the Llanberis Path between the halfway house and Bwlch Glas (where the PYG Track, Miners Track and Ranger Path all converge) is wonderful. There are dramatic views of the cliffs of Clogwyn Du’r Arddu, then unparalleled views of the Glyderau followed by the big reveal of lofty views of Yr Wyddfa’s (Snowdon) lakes. Epic!
Ranger Path & Rhyd Ddu Path
The Ranger Path & Rhyd Ddu Path both have excellent views of Llyn Cwellyn, Cwm Clogwyn and the Nantlle Ridge. Both have dramatic views of the summit too.
Best views on Snowdon
The natural form of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is beautiful due to it being a pyramidal peak. Adding to its striking shape is a palate of natural features which include shining lakes, turbulent streams and rocky cliffs. Combine all these features together and you get the striking mountain of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is the most photographed mountain in the UK. This section of the blog looks at the top single views on mountain that you can capture in a single photograph.
Snowdon Summit
The best view on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), without a shadow of a doubt, is the view from the very top.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is the highest mountain in Wales and higher than all the mountains in England. There is no higher thing on earth for hundreds of miles and for as far as the eye can see. Consequently, for those who climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the breathtaking 360-degree views are spectacular.
On a clear day you can see Wales (obviously), Ireland, England, Scotland and the Isle on Man. Its location and height result in some of the most extensive vistas on the British Isles. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning scenery and snap some photos
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is a victim of its own success so be prepared for crowds and potential delays. The crowds can however be avoided on a sunrise or sunset walk where the spectacular views are added to and amplified.
Crib Goch
The climb to access the ridge of Crib Goch is as challenging as it is thrilling and the reward is mesmerizing. The narrow ridge of Crib Goch draws the eye, and the adventurer, towards the mountain which is above all others; Yr Wydda (Snowdon).
Words do not do the scenery justice. You don’t just see it; you experience it. The sense of thrill rising inside as you climb, the wind in your face, the rock below your fingertips make you not just an observer but a part of the scenery.
The melodrama of Crib Goch can only be accessed by capable individuals. Be aware that it is a challenging route that requires scrambling and a head for heights. This has the advantage of keeping the number of boots on its rocky peak, just a fraction of those on its loftier neighbor (Snowdon) on any given day.
Be prepared for strong winds and unpredictable weather on this wild route.
Glaslyn
Yr Wyddfa’S (Snowdon) lakes are situated in a glacial cwm (valley) which is surrounded by some of the biggest mountains in the country.
This ring of rock and earth rises to the lofty peak of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) which crowns the epic landscape. The lake of Glaslyn is the shimmering jewel of this giant crown.
It is possibly the single most awe-inspiring and dramatic view of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The lake is accessed via the Miner’s Track but the lofty perspective of its glassy surface from the PYG Track and Crib Goch are equally enchanting, possibly more so.
Legend has it that Glaslyn is where King Arthur set sail into the mist on his final journey to Avalon. It is also said that Excalibur, his famous sword was cast into the lake and still resides there to this day.
Scenic Spots and Photography Locations: Best views of Snowdon
Although the most immediate views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) are found on the mountain itself, some of the most pleasing and complete views are actually found at a distance.
It is said that there are three essential elements which make a good composition in landscape photography: fore ground, middle ground and back ground.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) certainly offers a strong and impressive background. Here are some of the best locations to view Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
Llynnau Mymbyr
Perhaps nowhere encapsulates the composition of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) better than Llynnau Mymbyr.
The glassy Llynnau Mymbyr lake in the foreground, is sits in the valley which acts as the middleground and draws the eye to the background and the star of the show, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). This excellent composition make this a very popular spot for photographers.
When the conditions are right the lake creates a mirror image of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) as it reflects the mountain off it’s glassy surface. Add an epic sunrise or sunset into the mix and you get a view dreams are made of!
That’s what makes the picturesque lake with stunning views of Snowdon’s summit a popular spot for photography.
Snowdon from the Snowdon Horseshoe
The walk with the best and most complete view of Yr Wyddfa is the Snowdon Horseshoe.
This big day out summits four of the biggest mountains in Wales and offers the best views of the mountain from the north and south.
Perhaps the highlight of this epic route is the view of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) from Garnedd Ugain; the second highest mountain in Wales. Less than 1km from peak to peak, and just 20m lower than Yr Wyddfa Garnedd Ugain really does allow you to stand face to face with a giant.
The Snowdon Horseshoe is a long and challenging route which needs a high level of fitness and involves lots of Grade 1 scrambling.
Snowdon from Glyder Fawr
The Glyderau are the closest mountain range to the Snowdon Group. Glyder Fawr is the biggest mountain in the Glyderau and one of the best mountains in Snowdonia. At less than 5km from the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) it has the best views of it.
The rocky summit of Glyder Fawr is otherworldly and it offers a unique perspective across the valley to the biggest mountain in the country.
See the best of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)!
We are the Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) experts and can take you up any of the footpaths. The Mountain Leaders who work for us know the mountain like the back of their hands so will show you all the best views and best photo spots.
In addition, we can take you up any of the neighbouring mountains to get a unique perspective of the tallest mountain in Wales!
Join one of our regular Guided Walks up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), a sunrise or sunset walk or choose your own adventure as part of our bespoke service
Conclusion
Snowdonia National Park offers some of the most stunning scenery in North Wales and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is one of the most beautiful mountains in Wales and has some of the best views on it’s footpaths.
With careful planning and preparation, you can reach Yr Wyddfa’s (Snowdon) best views and enjoy the park’s natural beauty
Whichever route you choose, be sure to respect the park’s environment and wildlife, and enjoy the experience!
Follow the countryside code and always take litter home.
FAQ’s
Where is the best place to see Snowdon?
The best place to see Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is on the mountain itself. You get an up close and personal perspective. Each footpath has its own unique and picturesque view of the mountain and the views from the summit are the best and most extensive in Wales.
For individuals who don’t want to make the challenging trek to the summit the Snowdon Mountain Railway will get you there.
Where is the best place to see Snowdon from the car?
The lookout car park on the A498 is the best view of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) there is without leaving your car. The small car park is popular in the summer because of its excellent views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and the Nantgwynant valley.
What is the best time of day to see Snowdon?
The view of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) at any time of day is striking. However, it is the most dramatic at sunrise and sunset as the sky lights up with one of the most spectacular events nature has to offer.
What is the best time of year to see Snowdon?
One of the best things about guiding people up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is watching it change throughout the year. The hills burst into life in the spring, summer brings the most reliable weather and winter often shrouds the slopes in snow, completely changing the appearance and feel.
It is autumn that is the most captivating time to see Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Nature has captured the best of the suns energy and it uses this to put on one final spectacular display of autumn colour. In addition the light in autumn is softer adding a richness to the views.
Best conditions for a good view
Obviously a clear day is a top priority for good views especially from the summit. This is found on sunny days when high pressure sits over the UK.
The most prized conditions for mountaineers is a cloud inversion. These are as rare as they are special. During this rare weather event the summits of the mountains are above the clouds so the summits appear as islands, stranded in a sea of clouds. Heaven!
Tips and Essentials
Although Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is a popular beauty spot, it is still a mountain with hazards so care needs to be taken when attempting to climb it.
Safety and Emergency Procedures
Always carry a first aid kit and know how to use it
Bring a map, compass, and GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app
Know what to do in case of an emergency, such as calling for help or finding shelter
Car Parks and Parking Options
Use designated car parks for Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), such as Llyn Cwellyn car park or Pen y Pass car park
Be aware of parking restrictions and fees
Consider using public transport or car-sharing to reduce congestion
Essential Gear and Preparation
Check the weather forecast before you set off
Pack layers for unpredictable weather in Snowdonia National Park
Bring a map, compass, and GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a first aid kit
Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning scenery