I’m not sure if you’ve seen yet or not, but I just got back from climbing Mount Snowdon. It was my first time doing anything like that, and was definitely something out of my comfort zone. Just because I’ve now done it doesn’t mean I think I’m suddenly an expert – but it does mean that I picked up a few pieces of advice that I think helped – or would’ve helped – me along the way.
I know it’s a bit of an awkward time to share advice on travel, especially to somewhere that’s just going fresh into a new lockdown, but while it’s new in my head I thought I’d get it out. Obviously it goes without saying that there’s other guides out there from mountain climbing experts, and please don’t take this little guide as the only information you’ll need.
Research your route
Mount Snowdon isn’t just an up and down trip, there’s different routes to choose from, and they all have different dificulty levels. It’s worth researhing all the routes before you start planning your trip. I’ve listed the routes below, but it’s essential to read up on them on a website like the Visit Snowdonia page beforehand.
Llanberis Path
Miners Track
PYG Track
Watkin Path
Rhyd Ddu Path
Snowdon Ranger
Research the weather
And prepare for it. If the weather is too harsh be prepared to change to an easier route. And even if the weather says it’s going to be sunny it’s still worth packing a thin waterproof and a plastic bag to protect anything in your bag that you don’t want to get wet, like spare clothes.
Definitely plan it as a stay
If you’re travelling – and not doing it as part of the three peaks challenge – I would definitely recommend booking into nearby accomodation the night before, and maybe even the night after you’ve climbed. Waking up on the day of your climb and only having to travel a short distance – o crossing the road in our case – means that you can have extra sleep, and less stress of the travel on the day. One of the best options, and one of the most cost-effective options, is the YHA options in the area.
YHA Pen-Y-Pass – the one that we stayed in.
Don’t go it alone
Especially if it is your first time climbing. You may think or actually be fit enough to be able to scale it without needing help, but company while climbing will definitely give you extra motivation to get to the top. And obviously it’ll be vital if you do fall into any trouble on your way up.
Load up with supplies
Don’t wait until you arrive to get what you need to scale the mountain, remember you might be taking off from the middle of nowhere.
Water – take a couple of bottles if you’re able to carry it.
Lunch
Sweets, in case you need a sugar hit.
What to Wear
Sturdy walking boots
Waterproof jacket – if the weather doesn’t look terrible pack a thin one as a waterproof layer.
Thick, comfortble socks
Rucksack or backpack – make sure it’s comfortable and doesn’t hurt your back.
Gloves or mittens
Base layer that won’t rub
Comfortable bottom layer – walking trousers or leggings, avoid jeans.
Fleece or jumper over the base layer – I used my Borg jumper.
Warm hat
Other extras to pack
Plastic bag or bag liner – put your spare clothes in this in case it rains.
Face mask – just in case, you know.
Hand sanitiser
Spare warm layers – pack these inside the plastic bag so they don’t get wet.
Camera
Portable phone charger, and mobile phone.
Toilet roll, and a bag to put any used in.
Basic first aid kit – plasters, pain killers, any personal medication.
xx
