Truth be told, the prospect of hiking never really appealed to me. However, since this experience I am truly converted. Keep reading to find out more!
The Hike
Myself and 4 of my pals took the Llanberis Path to the summit of Snowdon, which took us approximately 6-7 hours with a few stops along the way and a cheeky bev at the top.
There are six main trails you can undertake when climbing Snowdon. Firstly, Llanberis which has been rated as supposedly the easiest. However the following are also very similar; Miner's Track, PYG Track and Rhyd Ddu Path. Those with more experience could also consider the Snowdon Ranger or Crib Goch as some parts these are considered harder routes. (I discovered this information from various people climbing the mountain as well as online resources.)
My Tips
First tip would be to get yourself some decent hiking boots! I personally recommend the Adidas Terrex Ax3 because 9 miles and various steep gradients later, there was not a blister insight. This was incredibly impressive to me as anyone who knows me will know I just have to look at a fresh pair of shoes and my feet hurt.
Secondly, is all about the snacks! I would certainly advise packing some kind of meal deal alongside protein or cereal bars. I wish I had bought an extra meal deal because foolishly, my friend and I decided to stay out watching the England Vs Scotland game, which brings me nicely onto my next tip...
Avoid climbing hungover! Common sense to many but when you're used to paying off a small mortgage for drink prices in London and then stumble across a bar with £4 doubles and the Euros on, it was only down hill from there (pun intended). Anyway, enough of the justification for our poor decision making and onto a more serious note, which is to make sure you wake up early and get a good breakfast to start the day! The altitude did seem to be a cure for us though I must say.
Finally, the dilemma for the majority of girls I know struggle with and that is 'what to wear?' For us layers were key! I rocked an all black moment with black boots, black full length sport leggings and a black waterproof jacket. I also bought a light weight hoodie that I tied around my waist for the majority of the time and mostly walked in my sports crops top. This was because it can get very warm as you walk but as you make your way to the top the weather can change and become pretty chilly! I was very grateful for the extra layers as we slowed in pace close to the summit.
My friends (right to left) Kelly, Sophie, Jack & Lauren
Accommodation
We stayed at The Slate, Bangor, North Wales. This had an ideal location at it was less than 15 minutes to the car park based at the start of the Llanberis Path.
I would highly recommend this staying here if you are planning your Snowdon trip. The staff are friendly and welcoming and the facilities felt very clean and up to date. The breakfast was also also great with attentive service.
This spot is also in easy reach of various castles and cute welsh towns and a beautiful coastline. So even if you are not a rambler or want to pad out your trip, there is still plenty to do.
Overall, climbing Snowdon was an amazing experience and I would definitely suggest giving it a go!
Comments