Snowdonia Ridges: The Best Ridge Walks in Eryri
- Walk Snowdonia
- Aug 26
- 13 min read
Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and some of the most thrilling ridge walks in the UK.
Located in North Wales, the National Park is home to the highest mountain in Wales, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and a range of other peaks and ridges waiting to be explored.
With its unique geology and diverse wildlife, Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
Eryri (Snowdonia) has one of the highest concentrations of epic ridge walk's in the UK. The best of a good bunch are;
Crib Goch
Snowdon Horseshoe
South Snowdon Horseshoe
Nantlle Ridge
Carneddau Southern Ridge Circuit
What is a ridge?
"A ridge is a long, narrow, elevated geomorphologic landform, structural feature, or a combination of both separated from the surrounding terrain by steep sides. The sides of a ridge slope away from a narrow top, the crest or ridgecrest, with the terrain dropping down on either side." Wikipedia
Only walks which adhere to this definition will be included in this blog article. For this reason walks such as The Daear Ddu Ridge have been left out as they don't adhere to this definition.
Why choose a ridge walk in Eryri (Snowdonia)?
There’s something uniquely thrilling about a ridge walk – the sense of height, exposure, and freedom as the land drops away on either side and the views stretch for miles.
In Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales’ mountainous heart, ridge walks aren’t just scenic – they’re legendary. From knife-edge scrambles to sweeping grassy spines, this national park is packed with routes that combine drama, beauty, and a real sense of adventure.
Whether you're drawn to the airy heights of Crib Goch, the wild expanse of the Carneddau, or the quieter side of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) on the the South Snowdon Horseshoe, there’s a ridge here to suit every kind of mountain lover. Some are bold and technical, others more forgiving – but all offer a chance to walk the sky and see Eryri (Snowdonia) at its most spectacular.
Here are some of the very best ridge walks in the park – routes that will get your heart racing, your boots working, and your camera snapping.
1. Snowdon via Crib Goch
Distance: 10.5km (circular)
Total ascent: 960 m
Route time: 6+ hours
Right at the top of the list has to be Crib Goch. This ridge is world class.
The Welsh word for ridge is ‘crib’. Crib Goch translates from Welsh to English as the ‘red ridge’ and Crib y Ddysgl is ‘ridge of the dish’. This is literally the ‘walk’ of the ridges.
This legendary arête is the most dramatic way to reach the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and it’s not for the faint-hearted. A serrated spine of rock rising into the clouds, Crib Goch demands a head for heights, steady feet, and a good dose of mountain sense as it is one of the most dangerous routes in Eryri (Snowdonia).
Starting from Pen-y-Pass car park, the route quickly ramps up to the infamous ridge, where the path narrows to little more than a blade of rock with sheer drops on either side (see pic above). One wrong step and it’s a long way down – but if you're comfortable with exposure, it's exhilarating! Add in the sweeping views over Glaslyn, the Glyderau, and all the way to the Irish Sea, and you've got one of the most breathtaking ridgelines in Britain.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. From Crib Goch, you continue across Crib y Ddysgl – equally airy but slightly friendlier – before finally joining the crowds at Yr Wyddfa’s (Snowdon) summit, feeling like you’ve truly earned it.
In short: Crib Goch is Snowdonia’s most thrilling skyline – sharp, exposed, unforgettable. Not just a hike, but a high-altitude tightrope walk you’ll never forget.
Extension
To extend this route see the Snowdon Horseshoe (below).
2. Snowdon’s South Ridge: The Quiet Way Up the Giant
Distance: 13.3km (circular)
Total ascent: 960 m
Route time: 6+ hours
If you’re looking to climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) without the crowds, the South Ridge is your answer. This quieter, more rugged route offers a wild and scenic approach to Wales’ highest peak, with sweeping views, airy walking, and just a hint of scrambling to keep things spicy.
Climbing from Cwm Llan, the South Ridge gradually narrows into Bwlch Main – a slender ridge that arcs towards the summit with dramatic drops and a wonderful sense of exposure (without being too technical). On a clear day, you’ll feel like you’re walking through the sky, with views stretching across north Wales and beyond to the Irish Sea.
It’s a favourite among experienced walkers for its solitude, simplicity, and scenery – a high-level alternative to the tourist trails that makes the final summit feel fully earned. In short: if you want the full Snowdon experience, but prefer your mountain moments a little less crowded and a lot more atmospheric, the South Ridge is the way to go.
Make it longer
The extension of this route is the South Snowdon Horseshoe (see below).
3. Tryfan’s North Ridge: A Hands-On Climb to an Icon
Distance: 4km (circular)
Total ascent: 620 m
Route time: 4+ hours
Few mountains in Eryri (Snowdonia) inspire as much awe and admiration as Tryfan – a rugged, fin-like peak that rises steeply above the Ogwen Valley like something out of Middle Earth. And the most iconic way to reach its summit? The North Ridge. This isn’t a gentle hike – it’s a full-on, hands-on scramble from bottom to top, and one of the finest Grade 1 routes in the UK.
Starting near Llyn Ogwen, the route wastes no time. From the moment you leave the road, it’s all upward momentum – over slabs, blocks, and rocky steps, with countless route choices and plenty of opportunities to use your hands. It’s not too technically difficult, but it does demand good judgment, a decent head for heights, and confident movement over rock.
Route-finding can be a challenge on a clear day and is the cause of many mountain rescue call outs, especially in mist, and while there’s no one “correct” line, some lines are safer than others.
Those who navigate the challenging terrain will be rewarded with an unforgettable sense of adventure, and a summit like no other. At the top, you’ll find the legendary twin monoliths of Adam and Eve – and if you’re feeling brave, the famous leap between them. Whether or not you attempt the jump, standing atop Tryfan after a North Ridge ascent is a rite of passage for mountain lovers.
In short: Tryfan’s North Ridge is a true classic – rugged, raw, and relentlessly fun. A must-do for scramblers and one of Eryri’s most thrilling climbs.
Don't stop there
The fun doesn't have to stop after Tryfan. See The Cwm Bochlwyd Horseshoe (below) for the extension.
4. Y Garn: A Grand Ridge Above the Clouds
Distance: 7.3km (circular)
Total ascent: 680 m
Route time: 5+ hours
Rising gracefully above the deep glacial scoop of Cwm Idwal, Y Garn is one of the most accessible high peaks in the Glyderau – and also one of the most scenic. Its broad, sweeping ridge is a natural invitation to climb, offering a satisfying mix of grassy ridge, airy edges, and unforgettable views.
The route begins beside Llyn Idwal – a striking mountain lake cradled by dramatic cliffs and steep cwms. From here, the trail passes the dark cleft of Devil’s Kitchen, a natural rock chimney that once lured Victorian tourists with its mysterious steam (spoiler: it’s just mist). But leave the kitchen behind, and Y Garn’s graceful north-east ridge awaits.
The ridge is the star of the show – wide and walkable, but with enough height and exposure to feel properly mountainy. As you gain the summit, a stunning panorama opens up: the jagged Glyderau to the south, the mighty Carneddau to the north, and the deep blue of Llyn Idwal far below. It’s a big experience without the big scramble – ideal for those who want elevation and atmosphere without the adrenaline overload.
In short: Y Garn is proof that not every ridge needs to be sharp to be spectacular. It’s a classic mountain walk with a wild edge, and a perfect introduction to the high drama of the a Snowdonia ridge.
Optional extra
You can either head north and summit Foel-Goch plus Elidir Fawr or south to Glyder Fawr then Glyder Fach.
5. Cadair Idris via the Minffordd Path: A Mighty Mountain Day
Distance: 9.6km (circular)
Total ascent: 970 m
Route time: 6+ hours
Steeped in legend and rising dramatically above the glacial lakes of southern Eryri (Snowdonia), Cadair Idris (Penygadair) is a mountain with serious presence – and the Minffordd Path is the most spectacular way to climb it. This route pulls no punches, climbing steeply through ancient woodland before breaking out onto a dramatic horseshoe ridge around the shimmering Llyn Cau.
The highlight? Traversing the airy ridgeline to the summit, then continuing onto Mynydd Moel, which extends the adventure and offers sweeping views over the Dyfi estuary and Cardigan Bay.
It’s a full, rewarding day out with everything: big ascents, wild scenery, and a touch of myth and mystery. A true southern classic.
6. The Snowdon Horseshoe: Wales’ Classic Mountain Circuit
Distance: 11.6km (circular)
Total ascent: 1121 m
Route time: 7+ hours
The Snowdon Horseshoe is a full-on mountain adventure that’s widely considered the finest ridge walk in Wales, and one of the best in the UK.
This iconic route loops around the dramatic cwm of Glaslyn in a sweeping, jagged arc, linking four major peaks: Crib Goch, Crib y Ddysgl, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and Y Lliwedd. It’s a journey that combines sharp ridgelines, airy scrambles, and epic views with a satisfying sense of progression as you tick off one summit after another.
What makes the Horseshoe truly special is its variety and sustained drama. You start with the adrenaline-fuelled traverse of Crib Goch’s knife-edge ridge, then move on to the slightly broader but equally scenic Crib y Ddysgl. After that, you reach the busy summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) – the highest point in Wales – descending the highest mountain in Wales via the quiet Watkin Path before climbing the brooding twin peaks of Y Lliwedd, which offer stunning views back across the full arc of your route.
It's a mountain day that tests your nerve, fitness, and navigation – especially in poor weather – but rewards you with a true sense of achievement.
For experienced hikers with a strong head for height, the Snowdon Horseshoe is a must-do classic: a thrilling, high-level circuit through the very heart of Eryri (Snowdonia).
7. The South Snowdon Horseshoe: A Quieter Classic with Big Mountain Feel
Distance: 15.4km (circular)
Total ascent: 1522 m
Route time: 8+ hours
While the [northern] Snowdon Horseshoe steals the spotlight, the South Snowdon Horseshoe offers a quieter, rewarding circuit with all the ingredients of a classic mountain day – sweeping ridges, remote summits, and jaw-dropping views, minus the crowds (except the very summit of Snowdon).
This loop around Cwm Llan is an underappreciated route that links a series of shapely peaks: Yr Aran, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) itself, and the elegant twin tops of Y Lliwedd.
This horseshoe may be less famous than it’s northern counterpart (the Snowdon Horseshoe), but it’s no less spectacular. You begin with the long, graceful rise up Yr Aran – a superb viewpoint in its own right – before tackling Snowdon’s South Ridge, a quieter and more rugged alternative to the tourist-packed routes. This is sometimes referred to as the walkers' Crib Goch due to the ridge being much wider.
After reaching the summit of Yr Wyddfa (the only busy section), the route swings east over the exposed ridges of Y Lliwedd, offering airy walking and sweeping panoramas back across the entire loop.
The South Snowdon Horseshoe is an excellent alternative to anyone whose knees turn to jelly at the thought of Crib Goch.
It’s wild, scenic, and wonderfully varied, with a real sense of journey through some of Eryri’s (Snowdonia) finest high ground. A hidden gem of a circuit – and one that deserves a lot more love.
8. The Cwm Bochlwyd Horseshoe: A Perfect Scrambler’s Circuit
Distance: 6.4km
Total ascent: 950m
Route time: 5.5+ hours
For those looking to turn up the dial on technicality and exposure the Cwm Bochlwyd Horseshoe is the ideal circuit. It’s a scrambler’s dream, combining exposed ridgelines, rugged hands-on climbing, and ever-changing views across Eryri’s (Snowdonia) rocky heart.
This thrilling loop encircles the dramatic hanging valley of Cwm Bochlwyd and links together two of the Ogwen Valley’s finest peaks: Tryfan and Glyder Fach with three of the steepest and rockeyest ridges in Eryri (Snowdonia): Tryfan North Ridge, Bristly Ridge and Y Gribin.
After topping out on Tryfan via the North Ridge, the route crosses Bwlch Tryfan and tackles Bristly Ridge, a steep and blocky Grade 1 scramble up to Glyder Fach – a route that’s both exhilarating and surprisingly complex. From the Glyder plateau, you loop back down via Y Gribin, a gentler but still scenic ridge that completes the horseshoe.
With three distinct scrambling sections and a variety of terrain, the Cwm Bochlwyd Horseshoe is a compact yet action-packed mountain day – perfect for experienced hikers looking for a classic ridge challenge with real character.
9. Nantlle Ridge: Snowdonia’s Hidden Gem of a Hike
Distance: 11.7km (linear)
Total ascent: 909 m
Route time 6+ hours
Tucked away in the quieter western reaches of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park lies a spine of rugged beauty that often escapes the crowds – the Nantlle Ridge. For hillwalkers who prefer dramatic scenery without the drama, this ridge is one of Wales’ best-kept secrets.
The Nantlle Ridge isn’t the highest or longest in Wales, but what it lacks in fame, it makes up for in character.
Stretching from the village of Nebo in the west to the village of Rhyd Ddu in the east, this route sweeps over a string of six jagged peaks – Y Garn, Mynydd Drws-y-Coed, Trum y Ddysgl, and beyond – each one gifting you with ever-expanding views over Snowdonia’s iconic peaks, the Irish Sea, and even Ynys Môn (Anglesey) on a clear day.
What makes the ridge truly special? For one, it’s gloriously unspoiled. This is not a walk where you'll be queuing for a summit selfie. It’s wild, windy, and wonderfully Welsh – the kind of place where you will share the trail with more sheep than humans. The path is narrow and scrambly in parts (especially over Drws-y-Coed), adding just enough spice to keep things interesting without needing full-on climbing gear.
In short: if Snowdon is the blockbuster hike, Nantlle is the indie masterpiece – raw, atmospheric, and unforgettable.
10. Carneddau: The Southern Ridge Circuit
Distance: 15.2km (circular)
Total ascent: 1101 m
Route time: 6+ hours
If you like your mountains with a side of solitude and a sprinkle of epic, then the Southern Ridge Circuit of the Carneddau is your kind of adventure. The Carneddau is a high-level hiking playground that’s big on drama and low on foot traffic.
The Southern Ridge Circuit is a loop that links some of the most majestic – yet often overlooked – peaks in northern Eryri (Snowdonia): Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Dafydd, and Carnedd Llewelyn. These aren’t just any old hills. They’re giants. Carnedd Llewelyn is the third-highest mountain in Wales and only 21m shorter than Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The vast upland plateau connecting these summits feels more Scottish Highlands than North Wales.
What makes this circuit stand out? Space. So much space. Once you’re up, you stay high for miles, walking on broad ridges and open ground with jaw-dropping views in every direction. To the south, the Glyderau & Snowdon punch skyward. To the north, the Irish Sea glints in the distance. And all around you? Wild, sweeping emptiness.
There’s a bit of everything on the Southern Ridge – steep climbs, grassy paths, a little mild scrambling (Pen yr Ole Wen), and some navigational challenges when the mist rolls in (which, let’s face it, it often does). But that’s all part of the appeal.
In short: if you want to stretch your legs, fill your lungs, and clear your mind, the Carneddau’s Southern Ridge Circuit is a full-day journey through the heart of wild Wales. Quiet, commanding, and wild!
Choosing the right ridge walk
With so many epic ridge walks to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to tackle first.
Consider your experience and skill level, as well as the weather and conditions, before selecting a route.
Crib Goch, The Snowdon Horseshoe, Tryfan North Ridge & Bochlwyd Horseshoe are scrambles with quite high technical difficulty as well as considerable exposure (big drops). In terms of difficulty and safety, these routes are just below where the line is usually drawn for using climbing gear (rope, harness, helmet etc.). They are not a good choice as your first scramble.
Y Garn, Snowdon South Ridge, Cadair Idris, the South Snowdon Horseshoe, Nantlle Ridge and Carneddau are more appropriate first scrambles as the technical difficulty and exposure isn't too extreme. These routes are not without their own challenges especially from a route-finding perspective and all (with the exception of Y Garn) are good introductions to scrambling.
Novice hikers should learn to navigate before taking on these ridges or hire an experienced guide for the day.
Navigation and Route-Finding
Navigation and route-finding are crucial skills for any ridge walker or scrambler. Some of these routes are challenging Grade 1 scrambles on the easiest line. Hikers veering off this just slightly can find themselves on much harder terrain which can include rock climbs.
The 'Route time' listed above is a reference only and could be completed faster by really capable individuals or teams. Most individuals or teams will take longer hence the '+' symbol.
Use a map and compass, and consider bringing a GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app as a backup.
Pay attention to the line and look ahead to identify key features and avoid difficult looking terrain such as cliffs.
Don’t scramble up anything you aren’t capable of climbing down as you can find yourself in a situation where you are unable to move up or down and end up getting trapped or cragfast.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Snowdonia National Park is a truly unique and special place, offering some of the most challenging and rewarding ridge walks in the UK.
Ridges have big drops and high levels of exposure by their very nature so choose a ridge walk that is suitable for the confidence and experience level of everyone in the group.
Ridges can be exposed to strong crosswinds so make sure you check the weather forecast ,especially the windspeed and direction, before heading out and pack appropriately.
Good navigation skills with a map and compass are essential for all these routes.
With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, the park is a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast.
Remember to always respect the park’s rules and regulations, and to minimize your environmental impact.
FAQ’s
What is the ridge up to Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)?
There are several ridges leading to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Crib Goch is the most famous and popular but also the most challenging. The South Ridge leads directly to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) summit.
Is Crib Goch ok for beginners?
Crib Goch is a challenging route. Around two people loose their lives attempting it every year. Once on the ridge there are no escape routes. Mountain Rescue recommends that novice scramblers hire a mountain guide for Crib Goch.
What level of difficulty is Crib Goch?
Crib Goch is a high-grade 1 ridge scramble. It's not a hike in the traditional sense – it's an exposed scramble with serious drops on either side, requiring a good head for heights, steady balance, and confident movement over rock.
There are no ropes needed, but there is very little margin for error, especially in wet or windy conditions.
It’s not suitable for beginners or those uncomfortable with or unaccustomed to heights. For experienced and sure-footed walkers, it’s an unforgettable adventure.
How difficult is the Nantlle Ridge?
The Nantlle Ridge is a challenging walk with a mix of steep ascents, rocky paths, and some light Grade 1 scrambling, particularly around Mynydd Drws-y-Coed.
It’s less technical than routes like Crib Goch but still requires a good head for heights, decent fitness, and confident footwork. In clear weather, navigation is fairly straightforward, but in mist, the unmarked paths and undulating terrain can catch out the unwary.
How long does it take to walk the Nantlle Ridge?
Walking the full Nantlle Ridge typically takes between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions. While it’s not an all-day epic, it’s a serious outing with plenty of ascent and rugged terrain, so give yourself enough time to savour the views and navigate safely.