The Pyg Track is a renowned hiking route ascending Snowdon, known in Welsh as Yr Wyddfa, the highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet). This path is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit, offering dramatic views of the surrounding Snowdonia National Park. It is classified as a strenuous hike, suitable for experienced walkers, due to its steep gradients, rocky terrain, and exposure to weather elements.
Historically, the Pyg Track derives its name from Pen y Gwryd, a coaching inn located at the base of the route. The inn served as a base for early mountaineers in the 19th century, including members of the Alpine Club who pioneered routes on Snowdon. Construction of the path began in the 1820s under the guidance of figures like William Panton, with significant improvements made in the 1890s by the National Trust, which now maintains the trail. The route was formalized as a public footpath in the early 20th century, becoming a staple for British hillwalkers and contributing to the mountain's status as a national icon.
In terms of route details, the Pyg Track starts at Pen y Pass car park, at an elevation of approximately 360 meters. It initially follows a gradual ascent parallel to the Miners' Track, crossing Glaslyn lake via a stone causeway before diverging into steeper, zigzagging sections. The path climbs through rugged slate quarries and boulder fields, reaching the summit ridge near Bwlch y Saethau. The total distance is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) one way, with an elevation gain of 725 meters, typically taking 2-3 hours uphill and 1.5-2 hours downhill for fit hikers.
The track's context within Snowdonia National Park highlights its role in promoting sustainable tourism. It is less crowded than the Llanberis Path but sees heavy use during peak seasons (summer months), prompting advisories on erosion control and the Snowdon Sherpa bus service for access. Weather on the route can change rapidly, with historical incidents underscoring the need for proper gear; for instance, the 1966 Aberfan-era awareness of mountain hazards influenced safety protocols here.
Environmental and cultural facts include the path's passage through areas rich in flora, such as heather and bilberry, and its proximity to sites of mythological significance in Welsh lore, where Yr Wyddfa is said to be the throne of a giant. Maintenance efforts by the National Trust focus on stone-pitching to prevent erosion, preserving the track's historical integrity.
Sources consulted include detailed guides from the Mountain Walks website, Snowdon Info, and Snowdonia Central, which provide maps, historical accounts, and practical advice based on longstanding research and visitor data.