Rhyd-Ddu and Snowdon Ranger Path loop on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) — Trail Running in Eryri (Snowdonia)

Longer, and with more ascent than the classic routes to the top, this adventurous run up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) traverses the rollercoaster ridgeline between Moel Eilio and Foel Goch before joining the Snowdon Ranger path. Expect some power-hiking on the steeper ground but much of this route is runnable, with great views and a quad-busting final descent on the Llanberis path. The Moel Eilio to Moel Cynghorion section will be quieter than Yr Wyddfa.

From Llanberis, the Tour heads out of town and up the steep road to Bwlch-y-groes. From here you’re running a grassy rollercoaster trail over Moel Eilio, Foel Gron and Foel Goch; the views of Yr Wyddfa and the Nantlle Ridge are some of the best around. After a steep descent to the gate at Bwlch Maesgwm there's the option of turning left and returning to Llanberis. But the full route takes you over Moel Cynghorion and joins the Snowdon Ranger path, gaining height quickly on the steep section until the contours widen and you can run again. Take care at the path junction at Bwlch Glas - the carved finger stone is a useful navigational aid. The final 1,640 feet (500 m) to the summit follows a rocky, stepped trail.

The descent initially follows the Snowdon Ranger path, hopping and jumping down the steps to the finger stone, then joining the Llanberis path back to the start. This stretch is an enjoyable 4.3 miles (7 km) of rocky descent, flying past all the walkers slogging up or down the trail!

Llanberis has good bus links from Bangor or Betws-y-Coed. There is plenty of parking, mostly along Llyn Padarn. It’s an outdoorsy and touristy town with a good selection of kit shops, cafes & accommodation plus a couple of small supermarkets. You won't find refreshment stops on this run other than the summit café, which is open seasonally, so take food and drinks with you. It’s always worth carrying emergency kit on a mountain run, a warm layer, emergency bivi bag, small first aid kit, torch, whistle and compass for safety.