Top 20 Mountain Passes in Gwynedd
Mountain passes in Gwynedd, located within North Wales, are characterized by dramatic landscapes, including those found in Snowdonia National Park. The region features a variety of passes, from high-altitude routes to glacier-formed valleys. These passes offer access to mountainous terrain, historical sites, and diverse natural features. Gwynedd's passes are notable for their geological significance and varied topography.
Best mountain passes in Gwynedd
- The most popular mountain passes is Cnicht Summit, a natural monument that is a pointy, fin-like peak. It is known as the "Welsh Matterhorn" and offers views of the Glaslyn Valley.
- Another must-see spot is Pen-y-Pass, a parking area and trail head. This location is a starting point for trails to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and the Glyderau, including the Miners' and Pyg Tracks.
- Visitors also love Telegraph Valley (Maesgwm), a trail and valley. This gravel trail is suitable for cycling and offers views between Foel Goch and Moel Cynghorion.
- Gwynedd is known for challenging climbs, scenic viewpoints, and cycle routes. The region offers a variety of mountain passes to see and explore, from high summits to historical valleys.
- The mountain passes in Gwynedd are appreciated by the komoot community, with 25 highlights and 82 upvotes.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
Cnicht Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Pen-y-Pass
Highlight • Parking
The excellent youth hostel has a rich mountaineering heritage. It was famously the haunt of George Mallory, who became part of Everest legend when he died attempting to be the first person to climb the world's highest peak in 1924. Whether or not he ever made it to the summit is one of the greatest mysteries in adventure history. The hostel's Mallory's Bar, is named in his honour.
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Bwlch Glas Pass
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Bwlch Main Ridge
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
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Llanberis Pass – Pen-y-Pass Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Café and shop at the car park at the top along with the YHA Pen-y-pass. There is a nice pub in Nant Peris and cafes and shops in Llanberis a bit further down the road,
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Black Road Gravel Pass
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
The gravel here can be loose in places but is suitable for touring, hybrid, gravel and mountain bikes. The trail is isolated, far away from roads making it blissful in good weather. It’s exposed, so take care to bring appropriate clothing should the weather close in.
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Bwlch y Groes
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
The climb is almost 3km long with some quad burning gradients right to the last meter. It may not be for beginners or after a large meal but it is worth a bit of awkward hobbling in cleats to see what waits at the top.
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Aberllefenni Slate Quarry Cycle Route
Highlight • Structure
By the way, there is a little piece of cultural history to look at: watch out for what the fences are made of.
Instead of wooden piles, stones are used here and these indicate that there were once large slate quarries here. They've been closed since 2002, but you'll pass one of the slag heaps, you can't miss them!
The route is a traffic-free cycle path.
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Telegraph Valley (Maesgwm)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Rideable in both directions.
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Pen-y-Pass Ascent from Nant Gwynant
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
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Tips from the Community
The Bwlch Main (south west ridge) is a great way to descend from the summit of Snowdon, particularly on a winter's day. Great views all the way to the Irish Sea
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🥾Bwlch Main (Welsh: “narrow pass”) is the exposed ridge that connects the upper slopes of the Rhyd Ddu Path to the Snowdon summit. A narrow crest with steep drops on either side, making it both dramatic and challenging. The ridge is roughly 500–600m long and feels like a true alpine section compared with the grassy and stony lower parts of the trail. 👥 Quiet & scenic: Unlike the “motorway” feel of the Llanberis Path, Bwlch Main gives a real mountain experience with the thrill of exposure. For experienced hikers seeking an exhilarating experience, it significantly quieter (albeit much easier) than Crib Goch. 👁️🗨️ On a clear day you can see the Nantlle Ridge, Moel Hebog, and across to the sea. Looking north, Llyn Cwellyn and the ridges rolling out towards Anglesey. ⚠️ Dramatic ridgeline section: The path to the top of Snowdon from this ridge includes the Llechog ridge, which provide exposure (drops, narrower path sections) the narrow section gets to only a couple of feet wide. You will need a good head for heights! And some boots with good grips for some looser rock or scree sections. Check the mountain forecast before heading out 🌬️ In high winds, the ridge can feel intimidating and unsafe. 🌧️❄️In ice, snow, or heavy rain, the narrow path and sloping rock become treacherous. 😶🌫️ Cloud / fog can reduce visibility and make it psychologically harder. To sum up: The Bwlch Main ridge is one of Snowdon’s most thrilling features. It adds a real sense of adventure to the Rhyd Ddu Path. On a good day, it’s a highlight: airy, beautiful, and memorable without being a true scramble. But in poor weather, it can turn from exhilarating to dangerous very quickly. For experienced walkers in fair conditions, it’s one of the most rewarding routes to the summit. For those with vertigo or less mountain experience, it may be better admired from afar.
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Rainbows on mountains tend to be a mixed blessing as they are a pretty sure sign that you are about to get wet! However from the photographers point of view they can also signal some great light, with sun mixed in with dark moody clouds. This was the view from near the summit of Cnicht - otherwise sometimes called the Welsh Matterhorn due to its pointy appearance from the village of Croesor. To the right of the picture is Moel Hebog which rises steeply above the pictuesque village of Beddgelert.
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A fine rocky and in places narrow ridge, and you will often have it all to yourself!
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Beautiful hike, too bad it was cloudy at the top. 12.3 km isn't the actual distance you'll be hiking: it's definitely 10 km more because you can't walk a straight line on this path. It's very busy on this trail; there's a queue to reach the top.
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Crazy hiking all the way up and then seeing a train pass you on the final section!
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If you want to park here, you have to reserve a parking space in advance for 20 GBP. We didn't manage to do it, as everything was fully booked. You can then park in Llanberies and take the Sherpa Bus S1 or S2 to Pen y Pass. The bus runs every half hour. From Pen y Pass, you can then choose the Miner's Track or Pyg Track. Have fun!
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Currently parking is pre-booking only! All others are directed to the P+R in the village and need to get up by bus or walk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which mountain passes in Gwynedd are most popular for visitors?
Among the most popular mountain passes in Gwynedd are Pen-y-Pass, a key starting point for trails to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and Llanberis Pass, known for its dramatic scenery and rock climbing opportunities. Cnicht Summit, often called the "Welsh Matterhorn," is also a highly appreciated natural monument offering stunning views.
What are the best mountain passes for hiking and walking in Gwynedd?
Pen-y-Pass is an excellent starting point for iconic trails like the Miners' and Pyg Tracks to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and the challenging Crib Goch. Nant Gwynant Pass offers access to the Watkin Path up Snowdon and features tranquil walks around Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant. For a rewarding climb with panoramic views, consider Cnicht Summit. You can find more hiking options in the region on our Hiking in Gwynedd guide.
Are there any particularly challenging mountain passes for driving or cycling?
Yes, Bwlch y Groes is renowned as one of the most challenging drives in the UK, reaching 545 meters (1,788 ft) with steep inclines, making it a favorite testing ground for cyclists and motorists. Llanberis Pass also offers an awe-inspiring drive with panoramic views and is popular among motorcycling and cycling enthusiasts. For gravel cycling, the Black Road Gravel Pass provides an exceptional ride with views over Barmouth.
What natural features and views can I expect to see at Gwynedd's mountain passes?
Gwynedd's mountain passes offer dramatic landscapes. At Pen-y-Pass, you'll see stunning views of Llyn Teyrn and Llyn Llydaw. Llanberis Pass features rugged, boulder-strewn terrain with towering cliffs and glimpses of Crib Goch and Snowdon. Bwlch y Groes provides breathtaking views across the Dyfi Valley and Cadair Idris. Nant Gwynant Pass is characterized by tranquil lakes like Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant, and panoramic mountain views.
Are there any historical sites or cultural points of interest near the mountain passes?
Many passes have rich histories. The road through Pen-y-Pass was built for transporting ore from Snowdon's mines, and its youth hostel has a mountaineering heritage. Bwlch y Groes was historically a pilgrim route. Near Nant Gwynant Pass, you can find sites like Hafod Lwyfog and the National Trust property of Craflwyn, as well as the Bethania Chapel, now a popular café. The nearby village of Llanberis also hosts the National Slate Museum.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near these mountain passes?
Beyond hiking and cycling, the mountain passes in Gwynedd offer a variety of outdoor activities. Nant Gwynant Pass, with Llyn Gwynant, is popular for watersports like windsurfing and canoeing. Llanberis Pass is a prime destination for rock climbing, with notable crags like Dinas y Gromlech. You can explore more options, including various hiking and MTB trails, in our guides for Hiking in Gwynedd and MTB Trails in Gwynedd.
Are there family-friendly options among Gwynedd's mountain passes?
While many passes offer challenging terrain, some areas are more accessible for families. Pen-y-Pass is listed as family-friendly, offering a starting point for various trails. The tranquil lakes and paths around Nant Gwynant Pass, particularly Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant, can be suitable for family walks and watersports. Always check specific trail difficulties and conditions before heading out with children.
What are the parking and public transport options for accessing the mountain passes?
Pen-y-Pass has a car park, though it often requires pre-booking due to high demand. It's also a hub for the Sherpa bus network, providing public transport access. For other passes, parking availability can vary, and it's advisable to research specific locations in advance. Public transport options are generally more limited outside of major hubs like Pen-y-Pass and Llanberis.
When is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes in Gwynedd?
The best time to visit is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is more stable and trails are clearer. However, the exposed nature of many passes means conditions can change rapidly. Winter visits offer a different, often more challenging, experience with snow and ice, requiring appropriate gear and experience. Always check local weather forecasts before your trip.
What are some of the unique geological features of Gwynedd's mountain passes?
Gwynedd's mountain passes are notable for their geological significance. Llanberis Pass, for instance, is a remarkable example of a major glacial trough, showcasing the powerful effects of glacial erosion. The rugged, boulder-strewn landscapes found in many passes are a direct result of ancient geological processes and glacial activity, contributing to the region's dramatic and unique scenery.
Can I find amenities like cafes or accommodation near the mountain passes?
Yes, some passes offer amenities. Pen-y-Pass features a youth hostel (the former Gorphwysfa Hotel) and an information center. Near Nant Gwynant Pass, the Bethania Chapel, dating from 1822, now serves as a popular café for walkers. The village of Llanberis, at the foot of Snowdon, also provides various attractions and services, including cafes and accommodation.
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