Walking - Snowdonia - The Miners Track

  This was a rather spontaneous walk for us, as our intentions were to take the mountain railway from Llanberis to the summit of Snowdon, but on discovering that they didn't allow dogs onto the train, (and chickening out of pretending that Matilda was my guide dog!), it was a case of what do we do now? So we drove along the A4086 up to the busy car park at Pen-y-Pass and luckily managed to get a spot. If you are planning to use this as a starting point for a walk, try and get there early (and bring change for the parking meter). You can also park in the available car parks down in Llanberis and catch a bus up to Pen-y-Pass, which is what many people tend to do. There's also a cafe here where you can have refreshments before or after your walk, and toilets are available for all.

There are many walks that start from here, but the main ones are for the ascent of Snowdon itself. These are named the Miners Track, the Pyg Track and another ascent via Crib Goch.

*Click on the images for the original resolution*

The Miners Track looking back towards Glyder Fach.

We decided to take the minors track, via the clear blue waters of Llyn Llydaw. On reaching Llyn Llydaw, the path splits 2 ways, the track  to the right continues around the lake and then begins the 500ft ascent of Snowdon, around the eastern edge of Llyn Glaslyn. We didn't take this route, mainly because we were underprepared for a mountain climb, but also because being a keen photographer, I wanted to capture the wonderful views of Snowdon and Llyn Llydaw from the lower slopes of Y Lliwedd.

Rocky steps leading up toY Lliwedd

On reaching the top of the steps, we found a lush plateau which was perfect for a picnic, and then I set about taking some Landscape shots. On consulting the map, my wife informed me that we were 586 meters above sea level.

Llyn Llydaw

A contented Labrador

 

In the shadow of Snowdon

 

The descent

All in all, a wonderful few hours walking, and not too strenuous (about 6 miles in total), we will be back in the new year to take a full day at tackling Snowdon on foot. We may choose the Pyg track next time, but would highly recommend the above route for a half-day jaunt. I think the pictures speak for themselves, as it really is a spectacular spot on a sunny day, especially when there's still snow on the higher peaks.

Detailed map - click to enlarge