Snowdon Horseshoe vs Watkin Path: Which Route Should You Hike?

So you’ve set your sights on Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) — great choice. But here’s the real question:

Do you take on the epic, high-wire circuit of the Snowdon Horseshoe, or do you opt for the wild, scenic slog of the Watkin Path?

Both are iconic routes up Wales’ highest mountain, but they couldn’t be more different. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, solitude, or the best view-to-leg-burn ratio, this guide breaks down the pros, cons and key features of both hikes to help you choose your perfect route.

🗺️ Quick Route Overview

Let’s start with a side-by-side snapshot:

🧗 

Snowdon Horseshoe

• Route type: Circular
  
  
• Distance: ~12km
  
  
• Time: 6–8 hours
  
  
• Difficulty: Challenging (includes scrambling and exposure)
  
  
• Peaks bagged: Crib Goch, Garnedd Ugain, Snowdon, Y Lliwedd
  
  

🥾 

Watkin Path

• Route type: Out-and-back
  
  
• Distance: ~13km
  
  
• Time: 5–6 hours
  
  
• Difficulty: Moderate to tough (very steep final ascent)
  
  
• Peak bagged: Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)
  
  

🧗‍♂️ Snowdon Horseshoe – The Ridge Walk of Legends

Why choose it:

This is arguably the best Grade 1 ridge walk in the UK. You’ll scramble across the infamous Crib Goch arête, summit four stunning peaks, and finish with a sweeping descent over Y Lliwedd. It’s iconic, it’s intimidating, and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

✅ Pros:

• The best full-day loop in Snowdonia — proper mountain drama
  
  
• Includes four peaks — big value for peak baggers
  
  
• Crib Goch is a dream for scramblers
  
  
• Incredible sunrise or golden hour route if timed right
  
  

⚠️ Cons:

• Crib Goch is exposed — you’ll need a head for heights and a steady hand
  
  
• Not suitable in bad weather — wind and wet = dangerous
  
  
• Navigation is tricky in mist, especially on Y Lliwedd
  
  
• Not beginner- or dog-friendly
  
  

Best for: Experienced hikers, scramblers, thrill-seekers, confident navigators

Top Tip:

Only do this route in good, dry conditions with little wind — Crib Goch in poor weather is no joke. If it’s your first time, go with someone who knows the ridge.

🏞️ Watkin Path – The Scenic Leg-Burner

Why choose it:

The Watkin Path starts low, climbs steep, and rewards you with some of the most varied terrain and views in Snowdonia. It’s often quieter than the tourist trails and has serious mountain atmosphere without the knife-edge exposure.

✅ Pros:

• Wild, scenic, and less busy than other routes
  
  
• Beautiful start through woodland and waterfalls
  
  
• No scrambling or ridges — just steep, steady climbing
  
  
• Great sense of accomplishment with fewer crowds
  
  

⚠️ Cons:

• The final 300m ascent is brutally steep and loose
  
  
• It’s a straight up–straight down route (no circuit)
  
  
• Navigation near the top can be tricky in poor visibility
  
  
• It’s a long descent on tired legs
  
  

Best for: Fit walkers, first-time Munro baggers, quiet-route lovers

Top Tip:

Bring walking poles for the descent — especially if your knees don’t love the downhill. Start early to enjoy the peaceful valley before it fills up.

📊 Snowdon Horseshoe vs Watkin Path — Side-by-Side

🎒 What to Pack for Either Route

Some essentials regardless of which route you choose:

• OS Map OL17 + compass
  
  
• Waterproof layers + warm layers (weather changes fast)
  
  
• Grippy hiking boots (not trainers)
  
  
• Water (2L+), high-energy snacks, and a sandwich or two
  
  
• Headtorch, just in case
  
  
• Walking poles (especially for Watkin descent)
  
  
• Fully charged phone and backup battery
  
  
• Peaky Baggers app to log your route and summit
  
  

💬 If you’re doing the Horseshoe, gloves with grip can help on scrambles — and save your knuckles.

🏁 Conclusion: Which Route Is Right for You?

There’s no wrong way up Snowdon — but there is a right way for you.

Go for the 

Snowdon Horseshoe

 if:

• You want adrenaline, exposure, and an iconic ridgeline challenge
  
  
• You’ve scrambled before and have a head for heights
  
  
• You’re comfortable navigating in the mountains
  
  

Choose the 

Watkin Path

 if:

• You want a tough but steady hike with varied scenery
  
  
• You’re fit, but don’t want to scramble
  
  
• You’re hiking with a dog, a group, or want a slightly quieter route
  
  

Whichever path you choose, you’ll earn your summit — and it’ll feel even better when you tick it off in the Peaky Baggers app.

Track your hikes, find your next peak, and bag your way across Snowdonia.

Photo credit: Nikolay Dimitrov