Dramatic Views, Zero Panic Attacks
Snowdonia has a bit of a reputation when it comes to ridge walking. Crib Goch? Glorious, but terrifying. The Snowdon Horseshoe? Stunning, but full-on. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to go full adrenaline junkie to enjoy ridge walking here.
Snowdonia is packed with beginner-friendly ridge routes that give you sweeping views, airy terrain, and summit vibes — without requiring nerves of steel (or climbing skills). Whether you’re stepping up from lowland hills or just curious about what ridge walking is all about, these routes are a solid starting point.
What Makes a “Beginner Ridge Route”?
Let’s clear this up. A beginner ridge walk in Snowdonia is:
- Well-defined underfoot
- No technical scrambling required
- Minimal exposure (i.e., you won’t be clinging to rock with a drop on either side)
- Offers that classic high-up, big-view feel
1. Y Lliwedd from Snowdon (Descent Route)
- Distance: ~13km loop | 5–6 hours (via Snowdon)
- Why It’s Good for Beginners:
While most people descend the Pyg or Llanberis paths, Y Lliwedd offers a quieter, more ridge-like finish. It’s rocky but walkable, with huge views down to Llyn Llydaw.
- Start/End: Pen-y-Pass
- Top Tip: Walk clockwise for a gentler climb and more dramatic descent
2. Moel Eilio Circular Ridge
- Distance: ~12km loop | 4.5–5.5 hours
- Why It’s Good for Beginners:
A gentle ridgeline west of Snowdon that’s often overlooked. Wide paths, rolling summits, and a grassy ridge with ocean views — it’s a dream intro to high-level walking.
- Start/End: Llanberis
- Top Tip: This is a great “sunset ridge” — bring a headtorch and time it right.
3. Nantlle Ridge (Partial: Y Garn to Craig Cwm Silyn)
- Distance: ~8km linear | 4–5 hours
- Why It’s Good for Beginners:
The full Nantlle Ridge can get gnarly, but this half-route offers the best views and ridge feel without the sketchier bits.
- Start: Rhyd Ddu | End: Nebo (or out and back)
- Top Tip: Arrange a car shuttle or do an out-and-back to Craig Cwm Silyn only.
4. Cnicht Ridge Loop
- Distance: ~9km | 4 hours
- Why It’s Good for Beginners:
Known as the “Welsh Matterhorn”, Cnicht looks daunting from below, but it’s actually a gentle scramble with an enjoyable ridge crest and a mellow descent.
- Start/End: Croesor
- Top Tip: Great in autumn when the bracken turns gold and the paths are quieter.
5. Carnedd y Filiast via Y Fronllwyd
- Distance: ~7km | 3–4 hours
- Why It’s Good for Beginners:
A lesser-known ridge in the Carneddau, ideal for those avoiding the busy Snowdon area. The summit sits on a gentle ridge with views across to Tryfan.
- Start/End: Ogwen Valley
- Top Tip: Keep an eye out for wild ponies — they’re known to wander the ridge.
What to Pack for a Beginner Ridge Walk in Snowdonia
Even the “easy” ridges deserve respect. Make sure you bring:
- Good boots – some trails can be rocky or wet
- Map + compass – even on popular paths, mist can roll in fast
- Layers – ridge walks are windy, even on sunny days
- Snacks + water – always
- Peaky Baggers app – log your ridge routes and track elevation offline
Ready to Try More?
Once you’re comfortable with these beginner routes, you can start working up to:
- Tryfan South Ridge – mild scramble but very doable
- The full Nantlle Ridge – exposed in places but unforgettable
- Snowdon Horseshoe (via bypasses) – build confidence step by step
Final Thoughts
Ridge walking doesn’t have to be terrifying. With the right route, kit, and timing, you can explore the spine of Snowdonia without white-knuckling it.
These beginner ridge routes give you just the right amount of height, horizon, and heart rate — and might just turn you into a ridge-walk convert.
Photo by Imtiaz Image on Unsplash
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