Snowdon Watkin Path

The Watkin Path is one of the most rewarding ways up Yr Wyddfa, but it is also the toughest of the main marked paths. It starts low in Nant Gwynant, gains a lot of height, and finishes with a steep loose climb that feels every bit as hard as it sounds.

Route summary

Distance	13km return
Ascent	1,015 metres
Typical time	About 6 hours
Start point	Pont Bethania, Nant Gwynant

OS map

What the route is like

The first part is deceptively civilised, with old pathwork and broad views back down the valley. It is easy to see why walkers are tempted by it. Higher up, though, the line narrows, steepens and becomes much slower.

The upper section below Bwlch Saethau is the part that catches people out. It is rough, loose and more awkward than the headline distance suggests. In bad weather or on tired legs, it is not a quick way to the summit.

For that reason alone, the Watkin Path is rarely the right call for the National Three Peaks Challenge. It works far better as a stand-alone mountain day when you can give it the time and concentration it deserves.

Good to know

If you are choosing between the quieter routes, the Watkin Path is the most serious physically. It is scenic, but it is not the easy alternative some walkers hope it will be.

For the park authority's current route guide and downloadable files, use the Eryri Watkin Path page.