Crib Goch

Crib Goch, meaning “Red Ridge” in Welsh, is one of the most dramatic and exposed Grade 1 scrambles in the UK, as well as a fun and exhilarating way to summit Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). With a summit reaching 923 metres, it’s the most challenging route to the summit of Yr Wyddfa, but also the most iconic.
The rocks of Crib Goch were formed millions of years ago, but the sharp arete is the shape it is today due to the last ice age, when two glacial hanging valleys (cwms) were formed back-to-back, carving out the landscape we see now. The result is a narrow, knife-edged ridge with thrilling exposure and dramatic views.
Crib Goch With RAW Adventures
If you’re already a confident mountain walker, with some previous experience of scrambling on exposed, steeper and rocky routes, then a traverse of Crib Goch is a fantastic next step. RAW’s experienced mountain leaders will help you safely and enjoyably navigate the iconic ridge, providing essential guidance in handling sudden weather changes, exposure to high winds and technical scrambling sections. With an intimate knowledge of the local area, they’ll also enrich your experience with insights into Eryri’s fascinating geology, wildlife, and history.
After meeting in Llanberis to catch the Sherpa bus, our day will start from Pen y Pass, where we begin our ascent using the PYG track and move on to Bwlch y Moch, initially via a stepped path towards the East Ridge, and then over some easy rocky steps and looser scree. Half-way up the East Ridge of Crib Goch, we’ll guide you over more specific scrambling sections, through a steeper band of rock.
Above this, the East Ridge continues to narrow as we ascend via stepped layers of rock, towards its highest point, where it meets the North Ridge. This point marks the start of the narrow section of Crib Goch itself. Although this particular section is quite short, it is the most exposed, with steep drops either side, but your guides will point out lots of options for hands and feet along the rocks.
We’ll take a breath to absorb the amazing views across the Llanberis Pass, towards Llanberis, on the right and down to the waters of Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn on the left.
Then, as the narrowest section of the ridge comes to end, further scrambling is required to either ascend or bypass two rocky pinnacles, with the third pinnacle providing some steeper scrambling again (no bypass). We’ll descend easily to Bwlch Goch – admiring wonderful views back to the ridge we’ve just crossed. And there’s still the interesting ridgeline of Crib y Ddysgl to ascend, en route to the summit of Garnedd Ugain, the final summit before reaching Yr Wyddfa.
Book Now
Join a small group and a qualified local mountain leader on one of our Crib Goch open days, starting at just £79 per person. All our open days are guaranteed to run.
If your group is larger than 4 people, our open dates don't suit you or you're looking for a leader to yourself, contact us to book your own private walk at no extra cost.
FAQs
How hard is Crib Goch?
Crib Goch is a challenging scramble, recommended for experienced hikers due to its exposed ridges, steep drops, and hands-on climbing. Our qualified mountain guides can make the experience safer and more manageable, as they provide support, route guidance, and tips to help you navigate challenging sections with confidence.
Do I need special equipment for Crib Goch?
While technical climbing gear isn’t required, sturdy hiking boots with good grip, weather-appropriate clothing, and gloves are essential. We’ll provide a kit list ahead of your climb, with details of the best equipment and any extra safety gear.
How long does it take to complete Crib Goch?
The full walk, including the bus journey and walking back to Llanberis, will take about 8 hours. We plan our climbs carefully, taking the weather and visibility conditions into account, and ensure you have breaks and time for photos, making your hike enjoyable and achievable.
What should I do if I feel nervous or scared during the hike?
Feeling nervous on Crib Goch is common due to the exposure and height. Our team is trained to recognise when someone needs extra support and will help you to move slowly and take deep breaths to stay calm, offer strategies to manage stress, and encourage you through difficult sections.
It's important that you have had some exposure to heights and have previous mountain walking experience before you join this walk. If you're worried or haven't had experience then we suggest you join one of our standard open days first plus link.
When’s the best time to hike Crib Goch?
Late spring to early autumn is ideal when weather is more predictable.
Will the walk get cancelled if the weather is bad?
Crib Goch is an exposed ridge with steep drops either side. While rain alone won't stop us (as long as you have packed according to the kit list and have good sturdy boots), high winds are another story. The winds in the mountains can gust impressively which can add an unnecessary element of risk on this walk.
If the winds are considered too high, then our super-experienced leaders might decide that Crib Goch is best left for another day. If this is the case on your chosen date, then you'll be taken on a different route up Yr Wyddfa instead.
Still have questions? Get in touch with our friendly team.