Top Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia
*Our Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia post may contain affiliate links, if you click the link and purchase an item through this you won’t pay a penny more, but we get a…
*Our Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia post may contain affiliate links, if you click the link and purchase an item through this you won’t pay a penny more, but we get a small commission which helps keep this website up and running, thank you!*
With around 10 million tourists visiting the mountains of Snowdonia every year, it can be hard to find a ‘quiet’ route. However, the beauty of scrambling is, that generally, the routes get less traffic than the more popular mountain paths.
Scrambling is a term which loosely defines the grey area between hiking and rock climbing. A steeper route which requires you to use your hands to grip the rock and scramble up.
Scrambling can be an inherently dangerous activity. The BMC recognises that climbing and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions.
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path or looking for a new challenge then scrambling is for you. We’ve listed our Top Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia, a range of challenging routes to introduce you to the world of scrambling.
The term ‘Scrambling’ is defined as: the action of scrambling up or over rough or steep ground.
It’s a mid point between climbing and hiking and is graded by difficulty from Grade 1 – Grade 3a. Although as you reach Grades 2 & 3 the lines between climbing and scrambling become blurred.
It’s commonly misunderstood that scrambling is safer than rock climbing. It is in fact, the opposite, it can be much more dangerous because scramblers often use little or no protection. Unroped scrambling is perhaps the most dangerous form of mountaineering.
It’s always advisable to use protection and safety gear, particularly on Grade 2 & 3 routes.
The BMC defines the grades as:
Grade 1 – An exposed hiking route that can typically be attempted without ropes and protection.
Grade 2 – Includes sections where a rope may be needed and involves moving over exposed yet relatively easy climbing terrain. The BMC recommends learning to climb to at least V Diff level before attempting scrambling of Grade 2 or above.
Grade 3 – These are often referred to as ‘Moderately’ graded rock climbing routes. They should only be attempted by experienced and confident scramblers. Use of a rope is to be expected for several sections, which may be up to about Difficult in rock climbing standards.
For this post however, we are only concerned with our favourite Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia.
One of the finest ridge traverses in the British Isles, this is a true classic, but not for the faint-hearted. A good head for heights, some basic movement skills and hill fitness are essential prerequisites !
Disclaimer: Although this is listed as our number 1, it is the most serious and potentially dangerous Grade 1 Scramble in Snowdonia and should be saved for fine weather conditions. If you’re unsure, please get in touch through our Social Media page. Our qualified Mountain Leader, Nick, will be happy to guide you and teach you the skills needed to enjoy this magnificent route independently.
Top Tip: Park in one of the Pay & Display car parks in Llanberis or Nant Peris and catch the Sherpa Bus to/from Pen y Pass. More details can be found here. Remember to check the timetable for the timings of the last bus!
From the Pen y Pass car park, head westwards on a well established path towards Bwlch y Moch. Here a fork is reached where you could bear left to join the Pyg Track. Instead, continue straight ahead and up the intimidating east ridge of Crib Goch. Follow well polished and scratched rock and try to stick to the crest of the ridge. Paths appear to flank left and right to tempt you away but can lead you onto more serious terrain.
The east and north ridges meet at what it is often considered the summit of Crib Goch, although it isn’t actually the highest point on the ridge! It is here you can enjoy your first sighting on the famous knife edge ridge. It is one of the true highlights of the many Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia.
The first section of the ridge traverse is simple enough before narrowing to a perilous knife edge. Many find it easier to drop down to the left slightly and use the true crest of the ridge as a handrail.
The ridge eases before the infamous pinnacles are met. The first and second can be easily traversed to the left. The third pinnacle often presents the most problems. It involves a scramble across a series of short, exposed ledges before reaching the summit of the final pinnacle. A simple gully and path can be descended to reach the col of Bwlch Coch. Well done, you’ve traversed the famous Crib Goch!
Just when you think you’ve done the hard yards, another seemingly insurmountable ridge appears ahead of you. Ignore the tempting path to the left and tackle the ridge head on through a number of zig-zags and little chimneys. The ridge then eases into more of a shattered crest with more walking than scrambling to reach the summit of Garnedd Ugain (1065m), the second highest mountain in Wales. Follow an obvious path south west to join the crowds on the Llanberis Path. Then make the final ascent to the summit of Yr Wyddfa/Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales (1085m).
From the summit of Snowdon, follow the Pyg or Miners Track back to the Pen y Pass car park or the Llanberis Path down into Llanberis.
Top Tip: If you are feeling fit and up for a challenge, aim to complete the Snowdon Horseshoe. Descend from the summit via the Watkin Path until it reaches Bwlch Ciliau. Here continue along the crest of the ridge to the summit of Y Lliwedd (893m). Pass over the two summits before scrambling down a footpath to a junction with the Miners Track. Then enjoy the gentle 2km back to Pen y Pass.
A true hidden gem on the lesser explored side of the Carneddau. This is a must-do for anyone looking to enjoy Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia.
Start by parking in the village of Gerlan, just off the A5 near Bethesda. There are a few spots on the narrow lane, but be sure to show consideration to the local residents.
Continue along the lane, following the main right-hand fork and crossing a bridge over the Afon Llafar. Shortly before the old waterworks gate, follow a footpath sign. The path initially heads up a private road before crossing a stile on the right. Cross two further stiles before enjoying the enchanting approach up the secluded valley of Cwm Llafar.
Top Tip: Be aware of grazing cattle and give them a wide berth where necessary. Also keep your eyes peeled for the local wild ponies!
Eventually you will reach huge boulders below Llech Ddu, ascend to the right of the crag to enter Cwmglas Bach. Follow a loose, scree path up and into the cwm to the level of the deep-cut left hand gully. This splits Craig y Cwmglas Bach, at which point a ramp then leads to a shoulder with a large block of Quartz. This marks the start of the scramble.
Follow the crest of the ridge, the path of least resistance often shown by polished or crampon scratched rock. The route is not necessarily exposed. However there is no real alternative to following the crest towards the summit of Carnedd Dafydd (1044m), the fourth highest mountain in Wales. Keeping to the crest of the ridge will also provide you with the opportunity to enjoy the ‘Christmas Tree’ rock – a great photo opportunity!
To return to Gerlan/Bethesda, descend north west from the summit of Carnedd Dafydd along the Cwm Llafar Ridge. You then rejoin the footpath you started the day on. Alternatively, complete the Cwm Llafar Horseshoe by following the ridge east around to Carnedd Llewelyn then head west to Yr Elen. From Yr Elen head north west then bear west of grassy slopes to meet the footpath back to your starting point.
Perhaps the most popular Grade 1 Scramble in Snowdonia, the North Ridge of Tryfan is an absolute classic. The jagged crest of Tryfan’s north ridge rises ominously from the Ogwen Valley. It’s unmistakable form has attracted climbers and mountaineers for decades. Sir Edmund Hillary’s team even trained on the mountain before their successful summit of Everest in 1953.
This being said, this route is perhaps best saved for a quieter day. Other people can often present a big hazard and the mountain is a hotspot for mountain rescue callouts. Unprepared climbers often find themselves caught out by the tricky route finding on the mountain.
After parking in one of the lay-bys on the A5, follow the path which runs alongside a stone wall at the foot of Tryfan. As you gain height, the path becomes less clear as you find yourself using your hands more and more. For the inexperienced route finding can be difficulty but look for polished rock and scratches made by crampons and try to stick to the crest of the ridge.
Top Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the Cannon Stone, a classic photo opportunity !
Continue to keep to the crest of the ridge, shortly after you will reach a relatively flat area beneath an imposing high wall of rock, known as Notch Rocks. Many groups take one look at this and begin to look for alternatives, finding themselves following a path left onto the Eastern Traverse Path and onto more serious terrain. The Notch Rocks are easier to navigate than they may first seem; follow the best line which is just left of centre and you soon reach a minor summit. Follow polished holds and ascend an easy gully to the north summit. Descend from the north summit before clambering over boulders to reach the famous Adam and Eve stones which mark the summit of Tryfan (915m), the 15th highest mountain in Wales.
Descend by the south ridge to Bwlch Tryfan before following the footpath down to Llyn Bochlwyd. Descend the path to the west of the stream then cross it for a diagonal descent across some boggy terrain to meet the A5.
If you’re still feeling strong and aren’t ready to head home, keep on reading and add route number 4 to your day to enjoy two of the best Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia in a single day!
Often combined with the North Ridge of Tryfan as part of the Cwm Bochlwyd Horseshoe, this appropriately named pinnacle ridge is a worthwhile day out whether on its own or tagged on the back of its popular neighbour. However it should be noted, Bristly Ridge is considered a little more difficult than Tryfan’s North Ridge with some recent guidebooks classifying it as a Grade 2 scramble.
It’s also worth noting that in poor weather, the summit plateau can be very difficult to navigate. You should go prepared, always pack a map and compass and know how to use them!
Fun Fact: Our very own Mountain Leader Nick led a group across Bristly Ridge as part of his Mountain Leader assessment! In some rather wet and windy conditions too!
If completing the route on its own rather than as a continuation of Tryfan’s North Ridge, you could begin from the car park at Ogwen Cottage or any of the A5 lay-bys. Depending on where you are parked, follow one of the footpaths to Bwlch Tryfan.
Follow the stone wall to the base of Bristly Ridge, head ~10m to the right and climb a short gully, exiting left over a small man made wall at the foot of the imposing Sinister Gully.
Fun Fact: Sinister derives from the Latin for left, meaning this is the left hand gully of a pair of gullies rather than it being evil!
Scramble up sinister gully, being careful not to dislodge any loose rocks on any parties below. Reach the top of the gully and scramble over a slabby shoulder to reach the main ridge. Scramble over a series of pinnacles including down into the crux of the ridge, the great pinnacle gap. Shortly after, easier ground is reached and a boulder field leads to the summit plateau of Glyder Fach (994m), the sixth highest mountain in Wales.
Top Tip: Don’t miss out on a classic photo opportunity at the Cantilever Stone!
To complete the Cwm Bochlwyd Horseshoe and a classic mountain day, descend by the Gribin Ridge. Alternatively, an eroded scree path provides a quick if unpleasant descent to Bwlch Tryfan. A further option is to follow the footpath east from the summit towards Llyn Caseg-fraith, forking off onto the path into Cwm Tryfan.
You get two for the price of one here, both are great introductory scrambles and can be linked up to reach the summit of Glyder Fawr.
From the Ogwen visitor centre, follow the path into Cwm Idwal and around the left of the lake to the foot of the Idwal Slabs. Head up the path immediately to the left of the slabs, the path contains a number of well worn steps before entering the gully ‘proper’. Follow the obvious line of the gully up, scrambling over slimy rocks and mini waterfalls before emerging into the mysterious Cwm Cneifion.
Pick up a path on the right as you enter Cwm Cneifion and gain the broad back of Senior’s Ridge. Once on the ridge, try to avoid the paths and keep to the right (west) where enjoyable scrambling can be found. The ridge peters out to the rocky summit slopes of Glyder Fawr (1001m).
Descend northwest from the summit on a loose footpath towards Llyn y Cwn before joining the Devil’s Kitchen footpath into Cwm Idwal. Alternatively head east from the summit and circle the headwall of Cwm Cneifion to descend the Gribin Ridge.
At 872m high the isolated peak towers over the surrounding woodland and rolling farmland. This route may be one of the most beautiful and interesting in Snowdonia, crossing farmland, winding through engulfing piles of slate all whilst surrounded by vivid heathers. Passing three peaceful lakes and several ruins of mining buildings before reaching the destination ridge.
An ideal scramble for beginners, there is plenty of scope to find your own route through the rocky steps and boulders. The fun and easy grade 1 scramble can also be completed as part of a fairly short circular route.
Beginning at Brynn-Glo car park off the A5 (free), or in one of the nearby lay-bys, cross the gorge of the Afon Llugwy at the Pont Cyfyng bridge, then take the second track on your right. You’ll walk up a steep, tarmac road starting through woods with a detour to avoid a farm.
The well worn path then crosses moorland and passes under the flanks of the north east ridge, passing a lake, slate stockpiles and flooded quarry. Continue to follow the well trodden path into a cwm and towards Llyn y Foel.
Skirt around the right hand side of the lake, avoiding boggy ground as you go, to gain the foot of the Dear Ddu ridge. Keep to the well worn and polished rock along the crest of the ridge for an enjoyable amount of hands on scrambling with little exposure.
Fun Fact: It’s said that on a clear day from the top of the mountain, it’s possible to see 13 of the 14 highest peaks in Wales without even having to turn your head!
From the summit, head north east following a footpath/stream (depending on the weather!). Follow the path until it joins a forestry road, follow this eastwards before crossing a bridge and emerging at Moel Siabod Cafe….finish with a scone, they are the best!
Y Gribin Ridge on Glyder Fawr (not to be mistaken with Y Gribin on Snowdon), is a classic grade 1 scramble. The easy to follow steady route combined with the low level of technical climbing required, makes it ideal for first time scramblers.
The Gribin rises from the edge of Llyn Bochlwyd towards the upper flanks of the Glyders, splitting the two famous Cwms, Cwm Cneifion and Cwm Bochlwyd.
From Ogwen Cottage, follow the path into Cwm Idwal before forking left onto a stepping stone path across boggy ground, climbing up towards Llyn Bochlwyd. Follow a grassy path around to the right to meet the bottom of the rocky ridge which bounds Cwm Bochlwyd.
The ridge path is obvious and well worn and is generally more of a srambly walk although sticking to the true crest can provide the best opportunity for hands on rock. The crest soon eases to rocky slopes leaving you with the option to take a path east, to Gylder Fawr, or west to Glyder Fach.
Fun Fact: “Glyder” derives from the Welsh word “Gludair”, meaning a heap of stones.
The route is a commonly used descent option. Alternatively you could head east and descend via the Devil’s Kitchen or head west and descend via the scree path adjacent to Bristly Ridge.
Do you want to tackle one of the best Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia but aren’t sure how? Fear not, we have you covered!
Our very own qualified and insured Mountain Leader Nick will be with you every step of the way! Get in touch via instagram or email edwards.nick19@gmail.com and we can organise a day to remember.
The time of year and weather conditions will determine exactly what equipment to take with you.
We always recommend being prepared for the weather in the UK, even if the forecast is for a dry day. The weather can change very quickly in the mountains!
All year round we advise packing the following; waterproof jacket and trousers, spare fleece/warm layer, lunch and snacks, minimum 1L of water, map and compass plus a suitable app such as OS Maps on your phone, emergency shelter and first aid kit. In the summer you will also want to consider a sun hat/cap, sun cream and sunglasses whereas in winter/early spring/late autumn it is always worth packing a spare warm layer along with a warm hat and gloves.
Thanks for reading! We hope we’ve inspired you to takle some Grade 1 Scrambles in Snowdonia. If you have any recommendations of other scrambles, let us know! We always love a new challenge.
Don’t forget to follow us on Social Media (@thegreeneyedglobetrotters) for more updates on our adventures.
Thanks again,
Nick and Eve
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