Llanberis Pass
A dramatic mountain pass in Snowdonia, offering stunning scenery, challenging hikes, and a renowned rock-climbing destination.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Llanberis Pass
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic mountain pass in Snowdonia, offering stunning scenery, challenging hikes, and a renowned rock-climbing destination.
"The views at the summit are incredible, but be prepared: it gets quite windy up there."
🐑 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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, Snowdonia
Stunning UK waterfalls that feel like a hidden gem. Easily accessible via a short walk up the Watkin Path.
Nantlle Ridge Hike
Snowdonia National Park
An underappreciated, challenging 11km route with breathtaking vistas and crowd-free peaks. For experienced hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐑 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.
💧 Pack plenty of water
Especially if hiking in warmer weather. Staying hydrated is crucial for a good experience.
🧥 Layer up for weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, including waterproofs, gloves, and a hat.
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.
🥾 Sturdy footwear is key
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are essential for the varied terrain. Hiking sticks are highly recommended.
💧 Pack plenty of water
Especially if hiking in warmer weather. Staying hydrated is crucial for a good experience.
🧥 Layer up for weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, including waterproofs, gloves, and a hat.
📸 Drone footage opportunities
The pass offers incredible drone shots, especially with dramatic weather. Be mindful of local regulations.
🚗 Scenic drives abound
The A4086 road through the pass is stunning. Perfect for a memorable road trip.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Parking fees may apply at designated car parks within Llanberis and at popular trailheads along the pass. These vary by location and season.
Llanberis Pass is open 24/7 as it's a public road. However, access can be restricted during extreme weather conditions.
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.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Popular options include the Watkin Path leading to waterfalls, the challenging Nantlle Ridge, and routes within Dinorwic Quarry for unique exploration.
Yes, Llanberis Pass is a renowned rock-climbing destination with various routes and challenges for climbers of all levels.
Expect dramatic mountain scenery, panoramic vistas of Snowdonia, and striking landscapes, especially from higher elevations.
Dinorwic Quarry is often described as a hidden gem with its unique history and views. Some seek out 'secret' infinity pools in the area.
Always give sheep plenty of space and drive slowly. They are a common sight and part of the natural landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire pass offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the winding roads to the dramatic mountain backdrops and quarry landscapes.
Yes, the expansive views and dramatic terrain make it a fantastic location for drone photography, capturing the valley and mountains.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Look out for the waterfalls along the Watkin Path, the vastness of Dinorwic Quarry, and the iconic views from higher points on hiking trails.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧗 Climbers and Adventurers
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures in Llanberis Pass
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. Many hikers recommend bringing hiking sticks for stability on steeper or uneven sections. The views from the higher points are truly spectacular, making the effort well worth it.
Driving and Photography in Llanberis Pass
When driving, be mindful of the sheep that roam freely and can often be found on or near the road. 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. Remember to respect the environment and leave no trace.
Exploring Dinorwic Quarry
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. 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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