Crib Goch
A challenging, exposed knife-edge ridge scramble in Snowdonia, offering breathtaking views for experienced mountaineers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Crib Goch
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging, exposed knife-edge ridge scramble in Snowdonia, offering breathtaking views for experienced mountaineers.
"An unforgettable experience that blends awe-inspiring views with a thrilling sense of adventure."
Check Mountain Forecast 🌦️
Always check the Met Office mountain forecast for Snowdonia. Conditions change rapidly.
Good Footwear is Crucial 👟
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are non-negotiable for this scramble.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Knife-Edge Ridge
The main ridge traverse
A thrilling, exposed scramble with sheer drops on either side. A true test of nerve and skill.
Panoramic Snowdonia Views
Along the entire ridge
On a clear day, the vistas across Snowdonia are simply breathtaking. Worth the challenge for the scenery alone.
The Three Peaks
Crib Goch, Garnedd Ugain, and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Completing the ridge and continuing to Snowdon's summit offers a significant mountaineering achievement.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weather is Key
Experience & Gear Matters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Mountain Forecast 🌦️
Always check the Met Office mountain forecast for Snowdonia. Conditions change rapidly.
Good Footwear is Crucial 👟
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are non-negotiable for this scramble.
Consider a Guide 🧭
If you're new to scrambling or have a fear of heights, a guided hike is highly recommended.
Start Early 🌅
Beat the crowds and potential afternoon weather changes by starting your ascent at dawn.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Mountain Forecast 🌦️
Always check the Met Office mountain forecast for Snowdonia. Conditions change rapidly.
Good Footwear is Crucial 👟
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are non-negotiable for this scramble.
Consider a Guide 🧭
If you're new to scrambling or have a fear of heights, a guided hike is highly recommended.
Start Early 🌅
Beat the crowds and potential afternoon weather changes by starting your ascent at dawn.
Respect the Ridge ⚠️
This is a serious mountain route. Do not underestimate its dangers, especially in poor weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Crib Goch is an unforgettable, thrilling mountain scramble offering awe-inspiring views, but it demands respect due to its serious exposure and challenging terrain. While some find it less severe than depicted, it's a route that requires significant preparation, a good head for heights, and favorable weather conditions for a safe and rewarding experience.
"Parked at the car park £5 for 24hrs, the took a bus towards Snodwon car park where the route began.
The views are gorgeous but it is challenging when you've got a fear of the heights."
Jurgita
"One of my dreams was to stand here and I did. Not Everest, but I made it.Thank you, me, for making it happen. An unforgettable experience!"
Kavin
"First of all I'd like to say that the videos posted on YouTube are so misleading as I found out when I crossed Crib Goch a few days ago, is not as difficult or severe as it's made out to be.
The scramble up is more challenging IMO.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend people give it a go."
S.O.D.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is the Pen-y-Pass car park, accessible via the A4086. From there, you'll typically take the Pyg Track or Miners' Track towards Snowdon's summit before branching off towards Crib Goch. Parking can be limited and may require pre-booking or using a shuttle bus service from Nant Peris.
Yes, the Snowdon Sherpa bus service connects various points in Snowdonia, including Nant Peris and Pen-y-Pass, making it a viable option if you're not driving. This can be a good alternative to parking at Pen-y-Pass.
Pen-y-Pass car park is the closest to the start of the Crib Goch route. It's advisable to arrive very early or consider pre-booking if available, as it fills up quickly. Some visitors have also parked in Nant Peris and taken the Sherpa bus.
Wild camping is generally discouraged in Eryri National Park. There are official campsites and some mountain bothies available, but they require planning and booking.
Yes, Crib Goch is located within the stunning Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) in North Wales, a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access Crib Goch itself, as it's a natural mountain ridge within a national park. However, parking at trailheads like Pen-y-Pass may incur fees.
Crib Goch is accessible 24/7, as it is an outdoor mountain route. However, your ability to safely attempt it will depend entirely on daylight hours and weather conditions.
No booking is required for Crib Goch itself. However, if you plan to use specific parking areas like Pen-y-Pass, it's wise to check for any pre-booking requirements, especially during peak season.
No specific permits are required for hiking Crib Goch. It's part of the public access land within Eryri National Park.
Many guiding companies offer Crib Goch hikes. You can find them through online searches or social media platforms like Instagram, where providers like @inspired_guides offer guided trips.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Crib Goch is considered a challenging scramble, not a hike. It involves exposed ridge walking with steep drops, requiring a good head for heights, scrambling ability, and careful foot placement. It's often described as more difficult than the standard Snowdon routes.
The route is a narrow, sharp ridge with significant exposure on both sides. It involves sections of scrambling, up and down climbs, and requires constant attention to your footing and the conditions.
Yes, Crib Goch is considered dangerous, especially in poor weather. The exposure, steep drops, and potential for high winds mean that a slip or fall can have severe consequences. It's often described as a 'death zone' by some.
On a clear day, the views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Snowdonia's mountains and valleys. However, the weather can change rapidly, often obscuring the views with mist and cloud.
The time taken can vary greatly depending on fitness, weather, and conditions. A typical round trip, including the ridge and potentially summiting Snowdon, can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire ridge offers dramatic photographic opportunities. Key spots include the start of the ridge, the pinnacles, and the views looking back towards Snowdon. Sunrise and sunset can provide incredible light if the weather cooperates.
You must prioritize safety. Only take photos when you are in a secure position and not actively scrambling. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid distractions.
A lightweight, durable camera is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for distant peaks. Ensure your gear is protected from the elements, as weather can change quickly.
Yes, modern smartphones can capture excellent photos. Ensure your phone is fully charged and consider a waterproof case or pouch for protection.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset can offer beautiful light. However, clear midday conditions provide the best visibility for expansive landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧗♀️ Experienced Scramblers & Climbers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Crib Goch Scramble
Many visitors find that the videos and descriptions online don't fully convey the reality of the scramble. While technically not the most difficult climb, the consequences of a mistake are severe. The route involves navigating sharp pinnacles, steep ascents and descents, and requires constant focus on foot placement and balance. In winter conditions, it transforms into an alpine climb, necessitating the use of ice axes and crampons.
Key elements of the scramble include:
* Exposure: The sheer drops on both sides are a constant feature.
* Route Finding: Identifying the safest and most efficient line is crucial.
* Footwork: Precise and confident foot placement is paramount.
* Weather Dependency: Conditions can change rapidly, turning a challenging route into a dangerous one.
Safety and Preparation for Crib Goch
Beyond weather, your personal fitness and experience are vital. If you have a fear of heights or limited scrambling experience, it's strongly advised to hire a qualified mountain guide. Guides can not only ensure your safety but also enhance your experience by sharing their knowledge of the route and the surrounding landscape. For those attempting it independently, ensure you have appropriate gear, including sturdy, well-gripped hiking boots. In winter, ice axes and crampons are essential safety equipment.
Essential preparation includes:
* Weather Checks: Always consult the Met Office mountain forecast for Snowdonia.
* Gear: Sturdy boots, waterproofs, map, compass, and in winter, ice axe and crampons.
* Fitness: Be honest about your physical capabilities and experience.
* Contingency Plan: Know when to turn back and have an alternative route in mind.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit