Eryri National Park, North Wales
This challenging circular climbs Yr Wyddfa on the Watkin Path before returning over Clawdd Coch and Allt Maenderyn. It is an outstanding mountain day, but the final ascent includes a serious Grade 2 scramble on steep, loose and exposed ground. This is not a beginner, child or dog-friendly route.
| Distance | 8.8 miles / 14.2 km |
|---|---|
| Total ascent | 3,983 ft / 1,214 m |
| Time | Approximately 6 hours 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Very difficult; Grade 2 scrambling, loose ground and exposure |
| Route | Anti-clockwise circular |
| Start | Nant Gwynant Car Park |
| Highest point | Yr Wyddfa summit, 1,085 m / 3,560 ft |
| Suitable for | Experienced, fit mountain walkers in good conditions |
Important: The final approach to Yr Wyddfa is a Grade 2 scramble with loose rock, substantial exposure and serious consequences if you slip. Do not attempt this route in rain, snow, ice, strong wind or poor visibility unless you have the appropriate mountain experience, equipment and skills. Carry a paper map and compass as well as the GPX.
Watkin Path circular map, GPX and parking
Park at Nant Gwynant Car Park. It can fill very early, so arrive with time to spare and check current public-transport options before travelling.
Download my GPX file or view the route on Outdooractive. The GPX follows the route I walked, but it does not replace competent navigation—particularly on the scramble and in cloud.
Watkin Path and South Ridge circular route description
The route starts from Nant Gwynant and follows the Watkin Path towards Yr Wyddfa. After crossing the road and the Afon Glaslyn, the early woodland section provides a gentle introduction before the mountain opens up ahead.
Waterfalls and Gladstone Rock
The path climbs past waterfalls and pools before reaching Gladstone Rock. It is a beautiful lower section, but fast, cold water and slippery rocks can be dangerous; admire it from a safe position and make your own careful assessment of the conditions.
Climbing towards Bwlch y Saethau
Beyond Gladstone Rock, the route becomes a proper mountain climb. The path rises steadily towards Bwlch y Saethau, with increasingly expansive views back through Cwm Llan. This is where the height gain and the scale of the day become obvious.
The final Grade 2 scramble to Yr Wyddfa
The final climb is the crux of the route. The ground becomes very loose, steep and exposed, and you need to choose each move carefully. This Grade 2 scramble should not be treated as an ordinary walking path. A GPX can indicate the direction of travel, but it cannot select safe handholds or make decisions for you.
Yr Wyddfa summit
The route reaches the summit of Yr Wyddfa, where Hafod Eryri provides café and toilet facilities when it is open. Opening can be seasonal and weather-dependent, so carry everything you need and never rely on the building being available.
Descending via Clawdd Coch and Allt Maenderyn
Rather than returning down the loose Watkin Path, this circular heads over Clawdd Coch and Allt Maenderyn. The descent remains a serious mountain section: it is exposed, rocky and tiring after the climb. Follow the GPX carefully, make conservative decisions and allow plenty of daylight.
Rejoining the Watkin Path
The route curves back towards the ascent line and rejoins the Watkin Path near Gladstone Rock. From there, retrace the familiar lower path through the woodland and return to Nant Gwynant Car Park.
Watkin Path circular practicalities
- Timing: approximately 6 hours 45 minutes is a sensible overall estimate. Very fit and experienced walkers may be quicker, but conditions, navigation and stops can add considerable time.
- Parking: Nant Gwynant Car Park is convenient but gets extremely busy. Arrive early and check current public transport before setting off.
- Navigation: the GPX is accurate for the route walked, but carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
- Conditions: save this route for a suitable forecast. Cloud, rain, snow, ice and strong wind transform the difficulty and consequences.
- Equipment: wear proper boots and carry waterproofs, warm layers, gloves, hat, food, water, a charged phone, emergency equipment and a head torch.
- Facilities: summit facilities may be available when Hafod Eryri is open, but do not depend on them.
Preview the route in 3D
Watch the route before setting out to understand the ascent, summit approach and South Ridge return.
Watkin Path circular FAQs
How long is this Watkin Path circular?
The route is 8.8 miles (14.2 km) with 3,983 feet (1,214 metres) of ascent.
How long does the Watkin Path circular take?
Allow approximately 6 hours 45 minutes. Fit, experienced walkers may be quicker, while difficult conditions, navigation and longer stops can add time.
Is the Watkin Path difficult?
Yes. This version includes a Grade 2 scramble, loose rock, steep slopes, exposure and a long mountain descent.
Is the Watkin Path suitable for beginners?
No. This circular is intended for fit, experienced mountain walkers with scrambling and navigation skills.
Can children do this route?
I would not recommend this route for children because of the sustained mountain day, Grade 2 scramble, loose ground and exposure.
Can dogs do this Watkin Path circular?
I would not take a dog on this route. The scramble, loose rock and exposed terrain make it unsuitable.
Where do I park for the Watkin Path?
This route starts at Nant Gwynant Car Park. It fills quickly, so arrive early and consider current public-transport options.
Does the route return down the Watkin Path?
No. It ascends the Watkin Path, descends via Clawdd Coch and Allt Maenderyn, then rejoins the lower Watkin Path near Gladstone Rock.
Is the GPX enough for navigation?
No. Use the GPX as one aid and carry a paper map and compass. Electronic navigation cannot choose safe lines through scrambling terrain.
Are there facilities at the summit?
Hafod Eryri has café and toilet facilities when open, but availability can be seasonal and weather-dependent. Carry everything you need.