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Llanberis Pass

4.8
·97 reviews·, United Kingdom

A dramatic mountain pass in Snowdonia, offering stunning scenery, challenging hikes, and a renowned rock-climbing destination.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend rush

CrowdLow
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Llanberis Pass - Image 1

Llanberis Pass

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend rush

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dramatic mountain pass in Snowdonia, offering stunning scenery, challenging hikes, and a renowned rock-climbing destination.

4.8
(97 reviews)

"The views at the summit are incredible, but be prepared: it gets quite windy up there."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐑 Watch out for sheep!

They roam freely and can be a hazard on the roads. Drive carefully and give them plenty of space.

🥾 Sturdy footwear is key

Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are essential for the varied terrain. Hiking sticks are highly recommended.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinorwic Quarry Exploration

Dinorwic Quarry Exploration

Above Llanberis

Discover the 'lost world' of this vast former slate quarry with panoramic Snowdonia views. A hiker's paradise!

Watkin Path Waterfalls

Watkin Path Waterfalls

Watkin Path, Snowdonia

Stunning UK waterfalls that feel like a hidden gem. Easily accessible via a short walk up the Watkin Path.

Nantlle Ridge Hike

Nantlle Ridge Hike

Snowdonia National Park

An underappreciated, challenging 11km route with breathtaking vistas and crowd-free peaks. For experienced hikers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Llanberis Pass can get busy, especially during peak season and weekends. Consider visiting on a weekday or during shoulder seasons for a more serene experience. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photos and fewer crowds.

Gear Up for Adventure

This is an outdoor playground! Pack sturdy hiking boots with good grip, layers of clothing for unpredictable mountain weather, and waterproofs. Don't forget water, snacks, and a fully charged phone for photos and navigation.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Shoulder seasons (Spring/Autumn)
Why
Fewer crowds, beautiful colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Watch out for the sheep. #promomakanliburan #mtblove #mtblifestyle #mtb #snowdonia #makemefamous #makeup #make #cymru #specializedbicycles #eryrinationalpark #gmbn #mtbviralvideos #mtbviral #gopromax #forests #snowdonia_north_wales #cyclinglife #northwales #snowdon #failarmy #failarmy #failvideo #mtbfail
@rickyhayes41
2.2M likes • 24.8M views

🐑 Watch out for sheep!

They roam freely and can be a hazard on the roads. Drive carefully and give them plenty of space. TikTok

🥾 Sturdy footwear is key

Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are essential for the varied terrain. Hiking sticks are highly recommended. Reddit

Is this one of the best hidden gems in Snowdonia? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Welcome to the lost world of Dinorwic Quarry. Dinorwic Quarry sits above the town of Llanberis providing panoramic views of Snowdonia. It’s the perfect spot to hike and explore, I find something new here every time I visit! Hike | Hiking | Outdoors | Adventure | Mountains | Hidden Gem | Snowdonia National Park . . . . #hike #Hiking #hikinga...
@conor_hikes
54.7K likes • 770.4K views
Testing the falls on a new route in Llanberis Pass. This was a really fun way to get on lead for the first time after working the route for months. Practising the falls got me more confident on lead, let me know what the falls are like and when not to fall (any point above that last fall) and it’s handy for my belayer to know all of that too. I’ve never done a proper trad first ascent before so...
angus.kille
22.1K likes • 2.4M views

💧 Pack plenty of water

Especially if hiking in warmer weather. Staying hydrated is crucial for a good experience. Reddit

🧥 Layer up for weather

Mountain weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, including waterproofs, gloves, and a hat. Reddit

📍 The Llanberis Pass 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿😍🚗 This has to be one of the most stunning roads we have ever driven in Wales and the whole of the UK! 😍 Located in North Wales, this gorgeous stretch of road is located in Eryri National Park! What you need to know 👇🏼 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 The road is the A4086 connecting Llanberis to Capel Curig via the Pen-y-Pass! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿❗️It is a two lane road, but be mindful that the road...
mrandmrsd.adventures
990 likes • 49.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐑 Watch out for sheep!

They roam freely and can be a hazard on the roads. Drive carefully and give them plenty of space. TikTok

🥾 Sturdy footwear is key

Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are essential for the varied terrain. Hiking sticks are highly recommended. Reddit

💧 Pack plenty of water

Especially if hiking in warmer weather. Staying hydrated is crucial for a good experience. Reddit

🧥 Layer up for weather

Mountain weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, including waterproofs, gloves, and a hat. Reddit

📸 Drone footage opportunities

The pass offers incredible drone shots, especially with dramatic weather. Be mindful of local regulations. Instagram

🚗 Scenic drives abound

The A4086 road through the pass is stunning. Perfect for a memorable road trip. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(97 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Llanberis Pass for its breathtaking scenery and rewarding outdoor activities, from challenging hikes to scenic drives. While the beauty is undeniable, be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather and potential crowds during peak times. Proper gear and planning are key to a fantastic experience.

"Fantastic Experience – Challenging but Worth It!
Had a great time hiking this trail – it was a rewarding challenge! The views at the summit are incredible, but be prepared: it gets quite windy up there.

Tips for Future Hikers:
• 🥾 Footwear: Wear comfortable trainers or hiking shoes with good grip. Hiking sticks are highly recommended, especially for steep or uneven sections.
• 🧦 Socks & Blister Prevention: Thick hiking socks are a must for comfort and warmth. Bring blister tape or plasters in case of rubbing or hot spots.
• 🧑‍🦽 Support: Ankle wraps can be helpful, especially if you’re prone to rolling your ankles on rocky paths.
• 🧤🧢 Weather Gear: Don’t forget gloves and a hat – it gets very windy at the summit.
• 💧 Essentials: Carry plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch to refuel along the way.
• 🎧 Entertainment: AirPods or headphones can be great for keeping your pace up or enjoying music while hiking.

⏱️ Time: It takes around 3–4 hours to reach the summit, depending on fitness level and pace.

All in all, a memorable and rewarding hike – come well-prepared and enjoy every step!"

I H

"My first walk up Snowdon so decided on this trail. Easy to find with a bit of a tough start up a road (coming down it after the walk was tough). The views all the way up are amazing with the train going by occasionally.

Once at the top it’s nice to get a photo at the peak.

Well worth a visit."

Dave Beggs

"It's a beautiful place. Quiet, peaceful and perfect for anyone who just wants to see stunning views and marvel at how the sheep stay on the side of the mountain!"

Joy Hubball (LadyJai)

What People Like

Stunning mountain views
Rewarding hiking trails
Scenic driving route

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Llanberis Pass is accessible by car via the A4086 road, connecting Llanberis to Capel Curig. It's a stunning scenic drive through Eryri National Park. Instagram+2 Parking is available in Llanberis and at various points along the pass, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.

Absolutely! The descent down the Llanberis Pass is particularly exhilarating for cyclists, offering incredible views. Instagram Remember to be aware of other traffic and road conditions.

Yes, buses do run through Llanberis Pass, even in snowy conditions, offering an alternative to driving. Instagram Check local bus schedules for routes and times.

Many visitors choose to drive through for the views, while hikers and climbers use it as a starting point for various trails and ascents. Instagram+1 Exploring on foot allows for a deeper appreciation of the rugged landscape.

While generally open, the pass can be subject to temporary closures due to severe weather, especially snow. Always check local traffic updates before your journey. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Llanberis Pass itself is a public road and national park area, so there are no entry tickets required to drive or walk through it. Instagram

Parking fees may apply at designated car parks within Llanberis and at popular trailheads along the pass. These vary by location and season. TikTok

Llanberis Pass is open 24/7 as it's a public road. However, access can be restricted during extreme weather conditions. Instagram

While there isn't a dedicated visitor center for the pass itself, the town of Llanberis offers information and facilities for visitors to Eryri National Park.

Yes, numerous local tour operators offer guided hikes and adventure tours that include Llanberis Pass and surrounding areas. TikTok

🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience

Popular options include the Watkin Path leading to waterfalls,TikTok the challenging Nantlle Ridge,TikTok and routes within Dinorwic Quarry for unique exploration. TikTok+1

Yes, Llanberis Pass is a renowned rock-climbing destination with various routes and challenges for climbers of all levels. Instagram

Expect dramatic mountain scenery, panoramic vistas of Snowdonia, and striking landscapes, especially from higher elevations. Instagram+1

Dinorwic Quarry is often described as a hidden gem with its unique history and views. TikTok Some seek out 'secret' infinity pools in the area. Instagram

Always give sheep plenty of space and drive slowly. They are a common sight and part of the natural landscape. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire pass offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the winding roads Instagram to the dramatic mountain backdrops and quarry landscapes. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the expansive views and dramatic terrain make it a fantastic location for drone photography, capturing the valley and mountains. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Instagram

Look out for the waterfalls along the Watkin Path,TikTok the vastness of Dinorwic Quarry,TikTok and the iconic views from higher points on hiking trails. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for mountain details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Llanberis Pass offers accessible adventures for families. The Watkin Path waterfalls are a relatively easy walk and a guaranteed hit with children, offering a magical natural spectacle. TikTok Driving through the pass itself provides stunning views that can captivate younger passengers. Consider a picnic at one of the scenic spots. Remember to pack layers and snacks, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, and keep a close eye on children near any water features or steep drops.

🧗 Climbers and Adventurers

Llanberis Pass is a renowned hub for rock climbing, offering a variety of routes for different skill levels. Instagram The dramatic cliffs and varied rock faces provide excellent challenges. Beyond climbing, the area is a gateway to numerous hiking trails, including the demanding Nantlle Ridge TikTok and the historic Dinorwic Quarry. TikTok For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the descent of the pass is also popular with cyclists. Instagram Always ensure you have the appropriate gear, experience, and safety precautions for your chosen activity.

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

The A4086 road that winds through Llanberis Pass is an absolute dream for road trip lovers. Instagram+1 The journey itself is the destination, with jaw-dropping mountain vistas unfolding around every bend. Pull over at designated spots to capture the scenery with your camera or drone. Instagram Be prepared for sheep on the road and enjoy the slow, scenic pace. This route is perfect for a leisurely drive, allowing you to soak in the grandeur of Snowdonia National Park.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Adventures in Llanberis Pass

Llanberis Pass is a hiker's paradise, offering a range of trails for all abilities. For a challenging but rewarding experience, the Nantlle Ridge is a standout, known for its breathtaking vistas and crowd-free peaks. TikTok If you're looking for something more accessible with a touch of magic, the Watkin Path leads to stunning waterfalls that feel like a discovery. TikTok For those interested in history and unique landscapes, exploring Dinorwic Quarry provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's industrial past with incredible panoramic views. TikTok+1

When planning your hike, remember that mountain weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast, wear appropriate footwear with good grip, and carry plenty of water and snacks. Reddit Many hikers recommend bringing hiking sticks for stability on steeper or uneven sections. Reddit The views from the higher points are truly spectacular, making the effort well worth it.

Driving and Photography in Llanberis Pass

The Llanberis Pass itself, traversed by the A4086, is one of the most stunning roads in the UK, offering a spectacular driving experience with dramatic mountain scenery at every turn. Instagram+1 It's a popular route for photographers, especially those with drones, who can capture the vastness of the valley and the winding roads from above. Instagram The pass is particularly photogenic during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, when the light casts a beautiful glow on the landscape. Instagram

When driving, be mindful of the sheep that roam freely and can often be found on or near the road. TikTok Drive cautiously and enjoy the journey, stopping at designated viewpoints to soak in the scenery. For photographers, a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the sweeping panoramas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain details. Instagram Remember to respect the environment and leave no trace.

Exploring Dinorwic Quarry

Dinorwic Quarry, situated above Llanberis, is a vast and historically significant former slate quarry that offers a unique exploration experience. Often described as a 'lost world,' it provides panoramic views of Snowdonia and is a popular spot for hikers and adventurers. TikTok+1 The sheer scale of the quarry, with its remnants of industrial activity, creates a dramatic and almost otherworldly landscape. It's a place where you can truly feel immersed in the rugged beauty of North Wales.

Visitors can hike through the quarry, discovering hidden paths and remnants of its past. The area is also known for its waterfalls, adding another layer of natural beauty to the industrial heritage. TikTok While exploring, be aware of uneven terrain and steep drops, and always stick to marked paths where available. The views from the quarry are exceptional, making it a must-visit for photographers and anyone seeking a less conventional outdoor adventure.

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