Crib Goch (Red Ridge) is one of the most famous ridges in the UK. Its combination of Grade 1 scrambling and awe-inspiring views makes this particular ridge walk an absolute classic. So, just what should you expect when traversing it for the first time?
First things first: you should already have a bit of scrambling experience under your belt before taking on Crib Goch. Although the scrambling here is fairly straightforward (it’s a Grade 1 after all), few places in the UK offer the same level of exposure. To put it mildly, the exposure on Crib Goch is pretty damn serious! What that means in practical terms is that, once you’ve hit the ridgeline, you’ll be over 900m up with a sheer drop to your right and another very steep one to your left. Crib Goch is also classed as an arête, which is essentially a knife-edge ridge. Consequently, it can, at times, feel a little bit like you’re traversing a mountain-high tightrope.
Not only is the exposure very real, but navigation on Crib Goch is also less than straightforward. As you leave the Pyg Track at Blwch y Moch, and follow the well-trodden trail over the ladder style, it can lull people into a false sense of security that the entire ‘path’ up is going to be extremely easy to follow. It isn’t. As soon as you reach the slabs that mark the start of the scramble, any path you were following quickly disappears. It’s imperative that you regularly look up and ahead. By doing this you’ll be able to identify memorable features to aim for. By breaking the scramble down into mini sections like this, you’re far less likely to get into navigational trouble.
Once you’ve taken your time to ‘spot’ your route, the scramble itself is pretty straightforward. Firstly, there are plenty of hand and footholds to secure yourself. This will keep you moving confidently along at a good pace. Furthermore, until you reach the actual ridge, the exposure at this point is low to middling. Finally, as you progress, and with the majority of your scrambling behind you; the route begins to bottleneck and your ridgeline destination becomes clearer and clearer. Take a deep breath and compose yourself because you’re now in for a real treat!
The first time that you reach the ridge of Crib Goch is a ‘wow’ moment. In fact, the reason I keep returning is because it continues to provide me with ‘wow’ moments. Although weekends throughout the summer season can get extremely busy, if you go up midweek and early in the day, you can have the place to yourself. Moreover, you’ll now to be able to spot ant-like hikers on the far busier and traditional routes up to Wales’s highest summit. As the Pyg and Miner’s tracks parallel Crib Goch, albeit hundreds of metres below you, this really gives you a sense of lofty accomplishment. This sense of accomplishment is only bettered by the views. They are nothing short of spectacular.
However, your job is far from done. In fact, for most people it has only just begun. If you have any latent fear of heights, this is where you will quickly learn about them. That is why it’s imperative to cut your teeth on some easier ridge walks first. I cannot underestimate that, although the traverse across is actually very simple, the exposure catches a lot of people out. If you do end up going when it’s busy, don’t feel the need to rush if people are approaching behind you. Take your time; 99% of people will understand why you’re taking your time and will give you the room and encouragement you need.
If this is your first attempt up and over Crib Goch, make sure that you have good weather conditions. What you don’t need is gusting wind and sideways rain hampering your efforts when you’re on an arête. It’s simply not worth the risk. A quick google search will tell you that Crib Goch has claimed the lives of many people. If you’re in anyway doubtful about the conditions on the day, simply continue up the Pyg Track. Crib Goch isn’t going anywhere. You’ll be able to attempt it on your next visit.
Crib Goch is simply the most exhilarating route up Snowdon. Done properly, and in the right conditions, it’s a wonderful experience. The views from the start of the ridge all the way up to the summit of Garnedd Ugain, and then Snowdon itself, are amongst the best in the UK. Just make sure that you have the proper kit to take it on and heed the warnings given here and elsewhere. Always check the forecast before you depart and, as sometimes happens in Snowdonia, be prepared to call it off if conditions deteriorate enough to put you out of your comfort zone. That said, if you do make it across, make sure you stop and capture the moment. Have fun and stay safe.
Crib Goch: 923m
Starting Point: Pen-y-Pass and up via the Pyg Track
Distance: 7.2 miles (if you’re completing the horseshoe)
Time: 5-7 hours
Total ascent: 1120m
Good advice and a great video.
lizzierunning recently posted…You know you’re an ultra runner when…
Great post on the Crib Goch! I personally have never done it but Jay has a few times! Maybe next time I’m back in England I should give it a bash 🙂
Oh wow, that really would provide a wow moment for me. I’m always up for a challenge it’s such a shame I don’t live near any mountains. Sarah #adventurecalling
Sarah recently posted…Adopt a Cow art class with Cadbury
Oh crikey. That looks amazing and I’m glad there’s some video as I’m not sure I would be brave enough to go and see the view for myself up on the ridge! #AdventureCalling
Emma – Hip2trek recently posted…My Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
What a great post. I love reading your blog. It’s fun trying to intemperate some of your words. I think what you call “scrambling” is what we, in the states, call “bouldering”. My oldest son would be right up there with ya. I would support ya from the bottom…lol……#adventurecalling
Wow well done, I’ve done the easiest path up Snowdon and still felt dead for a few days afterwards, great photos too #adventurecalling
Oh Wow! You had my heart racing for a moment. Once you start, you can’t really turn back can you. You’ll need to finish it. Well done! Well done indeed! Too scary for me! lol! #adventurecalling
Su {Ethan & Evelyn} recently posted…Mountain Warehouse Tent Finder Review
Oh gosh, this hike is definitely not for those afraid of heights. But it seems, it is well worth to conquer those fears just to experience those gorgeous views. 🙂 #AdventureCalling
Phew – proper heart in the mouth stuff that. Looks amazing – and scary!
#adventurecalling
Wow! Frankly… I am not sure if I have the guts to do that. Respect! Enjoy those well-deserved views and the accompanying adrenaline rush, and thanks for hosting #AdventureCalling
Jonny (daisythebus) recently posted…Primitive camping in Denmark
Wow that looks stunning, if a little scary! I’d like to try some scrambling, but think I need to work my way up to Crib Goch! Luke has done it, and I love seeing the pictures, it really is beautiful. #AdventureCalling
Lauren M recently posted…Why I Love The Lake District
That looks amazing! The scenery but I’m not sure I could go up there! It looks a bit scary for me! I now, I’m a scardy cat! Sorry I took a while to comment, it’s been a very busy month! #adventurecalling
This sounds like a challenge that is well worth doing #adventurecalling
Helena recently posted…Picking plums in Grandma and Grandad’s garden
not sure if i can climb to those heights. The scenery is worth every risk.
Whenever I can I have always enjoyed climbing Snowdon and you have definitely described the best route. Good pictures and words create a perfect memory for me.
Thanks mate, appreciate it.