Snowdon Horseshoe Guided Walk — The Ultimate Ridge Adventure

📊 Key Route Stats & Challenge Overview

• Distance: approx 12-13 km (7.5-8 miles)

• Total Ascent: ~1,000-1,100 metres

• Duration: ~6-8 hours, depending on pace, weather & group ability

• Grade / Difficulty: Moderate-Hard, involves exposure and Grade 1 scrambles

• Start / Finish Location: Pen-y-Pass, Eryri, North Wales

• Private 1:1 bookings available

🧭 What You’ll Experience

• Ascent begins up the Pyg Track → approach the dramatic ridge of Crib Goch. Scrambling over the “knife-edge” arête demands focus, head-for-heights, and careful footing.

• Traverse Garnedd Ugain, then over the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) — soak up summit views that stretch across Snowdonia’s peaks.

• From Snowdon, we follow the Watkins path onwards to Y Lliwedd ridge — rugged cliffs, classic exposures, and dramatic ridgelines.

• Descent via Y Lliwedd to Llyn Llydaw, then follow Miner’s Track (or an agreed descent) back to Pen-y-Pass.

👣 Who This Walk Is For

This walk is for you if:

• You are fit & used to long mountain days.

• You’ve done scrambles / ridge exposure before, or at least are comfortable with hands-on terrain and heights.

• You want a full mountain aventure — not just a walk to the top, but a ridge traverse.

Not ideal if you’re new to scrambling, scared of heights, or want a gentler hike. If that’s you, try our Intro to Scrambling or Sunrise Snowdon walks first.

🛡️ Why Guide with Yonder Adventure Company

• Fully qualified Mountain Leaders & Rock Climbing Instructors, trained in exposure & weather risk.

• Small groups (Larger on request) so you get real guidance, safety, and support.

• Local route knowledge: shortcuts, hazards, weather windows.

• Safety always: route reviewed in advance, decision-making if conditions change, full briefings.

• Photo chances, local stories & geology throughout — not just a walk, a curated mountain experience.

🎒 What’s Included & What to Bring

Included:

• Guide + full navigation & safety gear.

• Kit list & pre-trip advice.

• Training Plan

• Photos & Video of the day.

Bring:

• Sturdy boots with grip; waterproof jacket & trousers.

• Warm layers, hat & gloves.

• Snacks & water (minimum 2 L).

• Headtorch (depending on start time) & sun protection.

• Personal medication.

🕒 Sample Itinerary

• 07:30 AM – Meet at Pen-y-Pass car park; gear check & briefing.

• 08:00 AM – Set off via Pyg Track; approach to Crib Goch.

• 09:30-10:30 AM – Scramble Crib Goch; traverse to Garnedd Ugain.

• 11:00 AM – Summit Yr Wyddfa; lunch & views.

• 12:30 PM – Ridge walk to Y Lliwedd.

• 14:30-15:00 PM – Begin descent via Miner’s Track.

• Finish: ~4-5 PM (depending on pace/weather).

(Times approximate. Safety & conditions may affect the plan.)

💬 FAQs

Is this safe?
Yes — with the right guide, gear, and conditions. But Crib Goch in particular involves serious exposure. If weather is poor, we adjust or don’t attempt exposed sections.

Do I need scrambling experience?
Helpful. Even if you haven’t done Crib Goch before, you’ll need a head for heights and confidence on exposed ridges.

What if weather changes?
We watch forecasts carefully. If conditions become unsafe (wind, rain, low visibility), we have exit strategies, alternative routes or may postpone.

What if I can’t complete?
No shame — your safety comes first. We plan for contingencies. You’ll learn, move at your own pace, and we’ll ensure a safe descent.

📅 Ready to Book?

Don’t miss the chance to walk one of Britain’s most iconic mountain routes. Spaces are limited.