Description
The Rhyd Ddu descent is widely regarded as the hardest and most technical of the Snowdon bridleways, a roughly 24km loop for riders who are comfortable on big mountain terrain. The classic route climbs the Llanberis Path to the summit of Yr Wyddfa, then descends the Rhyd Ddu path, an exposed and boulder-strewn ridge line that demands strong technical skills and a head for heights. From the base, the route links back to Llanberis via the Snowdon Ranger Path and Telegraph Valley. This is a full mountain day out: weather, navigation, and fitness requirements are all at the serious end.
Like this?
There is a Voluntary Cycling Agreement covering Snowdon. Between 1 May and 30 September, riders must not cycle to or from the summit along the main bridleways, including the Llanberis Path, Snowdon Ranger Path, and Rhyd Ddu Path, between 10:00 and 17:00. Please adhere to the agreement to protect continued access. Details are on the Eryri National Park website.
The Trail
- The ascent follows the Llanberis Path from Llanberis village. It is steep, rocky, and largely rideable in good conditions, though the upper sections involve likely hike-a-bike.
- The Rhyd Ddu descent is the most technical bridleway on Snowdon. After the summit cafe, the initial ridge section is largely unrideable due to exposure and sharp drops. Lower sections ease up but remain extremely rocky with big boulders, drops, and switchbacks.
- The return to Llanberis follows the Snowdon Ranger Path south of the summit, then cuts across to Telegraph Valley (Bwlch Maesgwm) for a fast finish back into Llanberis. This section is not subject to the voluntary agreement restrictions.
- Total distance is approximately 24km with around 1,300m of climbing. A full day should be allowed.
- This is committing to mountain terrain. Weather, visibility, and temperature can change rapidly. Navigation skills and an appropriate kit are essential.
Getting Here
- The classic loop starts and finishes in Llanberis. The main car park is opposite the Snowdon Mountain Railway on Victoria Terrace, Llanberis, LL55 4TU (pay and display, card accepted). Additional village car parks are within a few minutes' walk.
- Alternatively, start from Rhyd Ddu Car Park on the A4085, Rhyd Ddu, LL54 6TN (Snowdonia NPA pay and display). This suits riders doing an out-and-back on the Rhyd Ddu path only.
- The Snowdon Sherpa bus service connects multiple car parks around Snowdon, which allows for point-to-point riding.
Share
- If you have ridden the Rhyd Ddu trail on Snowdon, please share your reviews, photos, and videos to this listing.