Stepping out of the car literally took your breath away, and chilled it well down into single figures. Checking in to the toasty warm hostel, we noted the temperature chart next to the desk indicating that the Snowdon summit was a frosty -6.
Time for the expert advice: was this do-able with kids in these conditions? The man behind the desk was extremely helpful. When enquiring as to the best path, he told us that he and his 6 year old daughter would regularly scale Snowdon using the Pyg track, starting right outside the hostel, and be back in time for lunch. No need to worry.
We hadn’t really looked into the Pyg track for our Snowdon Hike, but not to be beaten by a 6 year old (our youngest was at least 7), the decision was made. Doorstep Pyg path won the vote.
Had an exploratory wander around the foggy foothills before settling in to the onsite Mallory café, with its impressive valley views, and managed a sensibly early night.
Goodness this takes me back, the last time I went to Snowdonia was on an A level Geography field trip, I think I need to return without the teenage giggles! #CountryKids
I think I’d been doing A Levels the last time I went up too. I was pleased to still be able to make it to the top! Maybe go in summer rather than Easter, but don’t stop giggling.
A huge well done to you for doing the hike to the top and back down again. It’s on my list of things I’d like to do at some point but it won’t be for at least a few years yet. I’ve made a mental note of your tips though if we do ever do this trip ourselves. I can imagine that chocolate was a winner on the snack front and hot chocolate in a flask would have gone down well too. Those views are beautiful and it does sound like the path was quite precarious at times. Glad you all managed it and got back down safely. Love the photos of your day out at Caernarfon Castle too. Thank you for sharing with #CountryKids
I think we all felt a bit proud of ourselves at the end of that day. For a less hectic day out, getting the train up or down would be fun. And going when the cafe at the top is open would make a huge difference. Judging by the glimpses of views we had on the way up, I can imagine that they are incredible from the summit on a clear day. I wish you well on your future trip and great views from the top!
It’s such a beautiful part of the world. We were there a couple of years ago and by luck, the weather changed completely on the day we drove through Snowdonia. We didn’t have the right footwear to walk up Snowdon that time so got the train, but that wasn’t going to the summit at that tie of year, so we will be back! well done to everyone for conquering it #countrykids
I think the weather changes completely a lot in that neck of the woods! Be lovely to see it in the sun. (Although I’m not sure I could face doing it again.) Let’s swap and I’ll get the train next time. See you at the top!
The whole area is a favorite of ours and it’s just beautiful. Our kids are a bit young to attempt the walk up to snowdon yet but we have got the train up, one day we’ll attempt it with them. I have done it many times in my youth and can remember the sudden change in weather and everything disappearing under fog and cloud! Well done! #CountryKids
It is a wild and beautiful area. The warning signs are a bit daunting at the bottom but we were pleased to have embarked on the adventure. Good luck with your ascent when the time comes!
wow the scenery is just stunning. I know my kids would love this. Pics look really good. #totstravel
Thanks! It is surprisingly do-able with kids. Enjoy (and take chocolate and train fare just in case).
Wonderful story.
This was a really interesting read for me, as we were meant to be going next week and had planned exactly the same route. Unfortunately, we’ve had to cancel because of lockdown. However, I will take on board your tips about the cold and waterproof socks if we do get to go. (I would have taken loads of chocolate anyway!) thanks
#culturedkids
It was hard work but fantastic scenery and still have a residual sense of achievement. Really hope you get to go soon (and enjoy your mountain chocolate 😁).
chocolate is always real food:) fantastic scenery #culturedkids
Can’t wait until the munchkins are ready to do this (and we’re allowed back into Wales)! Reckon the 8 year old would give it a go but 7 would definitely be on the train (although she is highly motivated by chocolate)…….#CulturedKids
Had the train been running I think several of us would have been tempted. 😁
Nice to see kids out enjoying the great outdoors! 😀 #CulturedKids
This was so fantastic to read 🙂 thank you for sharing – it is something I want to do with Lily. Great tips too! #AdventureCalling
Oh, I chuckled all the way through this. Great read. And think like Willy Wonka is just great advice generally.
I remember that last section of the Pyg track very well, and your summit photo looks as cloudy as mine did. But that a fab adventure you had.
Thank you for sharing with #AdventureCalling. I’m off to make a hot chocolate.
Love the now and then photo! It’s always great to take the kids to places we’ve been before. Shamefully, I’ve never been to North Wales, something we definitely need to rectify, your guide is just perfect and has everything we need to know.Thank you so much for sharing #AdventureCalling
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE HIKING SNOWDON It takes between four and eight hours to hike Snowdon. Plan on it taking a whole day, with time spent at the summit.
Explore the most popular kid friendly trails in Snowdonia National Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. A relatively moderate trail around Llyn Idwal, recommended for novice walkers who wants to spend a tranquil day out in nature.