Nantlle Ridge
Join us for a fantastic experience walking with the Dark Peak Guides Team.
LOCATION
Snowdonia National Park
COST
£95 per person
WEATHER
CHECK THE WEATHER
DURATION
8 Hours
DIFFICULTY
Hard
Distance
9 Miles (14.5K)
DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP
The Nantlle Ridge Challenge is a spectacular and less-trodden ridge walk in Snowdonia, North Wales. Renowned for its dramatic scenery, remote feel, and sense of adventure, it offers a rewarding experience for experienced hikers. The ridge is part of the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park and provides breathtaking views over the Nantlle Valley, Snowdon, and the surrounding peaks.
Overview of the Challenge
- Distance: Approximately 9 miles (14.5 km) for the full traverse.
- Elevation Gain: Around 950 meters (3,117 feet).
- Duration: 6-8 hours, depending on pace and conditions.
- Difficulty: Hard – involves steep ascents, exposed sections, and some scrambling.
- Start/End Points: Commonly walked from Rhyd-Ddu to Nantlle or in reverse.
Key Peaks Along the Ridge
- Y Garn (633 m): The starting point for many walkers, with stunning views down to Llyn Nantlle Uchaf.
- Mynydd Drws-y-Coed (695 m): A sharp, rocky peak with some scrambling required.
- Trum y Ddysgl (709 m): The highest point of the ridge, with panoramic views.
- Mynydd Tal-y-Mignedd (653 m): Marked by a prominent stone obelisk.
- Craig Cwm Silyn (734 m): Another high point with a more rugged feel.
- Garnedd Goch (700 m): The final peak for many before descending into the valley.
What to Expect
- Terrain: A mix of grassy paths, rocky sections, and exposed ridges, requiring a good head for heights and sure-footedness.
- Navigation: The ridge isn’t as clearly marked as some routes in Snowdonia, so good navigation skills are essential, particularly in poor visibility.
- Views: On a clear day, you’ll enjoy views of Snowdon, the Llyn Peninsula, Anglesey, and Cardigan Bay.
ON THE DAY:
PRE TRIP SUPPORT
Preparation
- Fitness: A good level of fitness and experience with challenging mountain walks is essential.
- Gear:
- Sturdy boots, weatherproof clothing.
- Plenty of water and food for the day.
- Weather: The ridge is exposed, so check the forecast and avoid in high winds or heavy rain.
Transport & Parking
- Start: There’s parking at Rhyd-Ddu near the Rhyd-Ddu Path for Snowdon.
Safety Tips
- Scrambling: Some sections, especially Mynydd Drws-y-Coed, involve light scrambling.
- Experience: This challenge is best for experienced hikers with mountain skills.
The Nantlle Ridge is often considered one of the best ridge walks in Snowdonia for its remote beauty and thrilling terrain.
SAFETY & WELLBEING
Please read the following carefully. It may affect your safety and the safety of others attending the course. Confirming and paying for your activity acts as an indication that you have read and understood it. It is merely to make sure you are aware of what you are letting yourself in for! We have taken all reasonable steps to provide you with the level of care and assurances of safety appropriate to these activities.
However, you should be aware that certain inherent risks remain which are integral to the activity, and which cannot be eliminated without destroying their unique character. Amongst other things, some of these risks can contribute to:
• The loss or damage of your personal clothing or equipment,
• Accidental injury or illness which could become very serious.
The level of real (as opposed to apparent) risk associated with these activities is very low. However, the type of risks may be something with which you are not familiar. The level of risk is generally no greater than that associated with, for example, the normal play of an average child, or that associated with normal adult undertaking recreational activities appropriate to their ability, fitness, age, etc.
Things you may encounter may include, but may not be limited to:
• Rough or rugged terrain: This may be on mountain or moorland, forestry, or agricultural land.
• Physical effort: All activities involve physical effort that at times may be more than you are used to. If you have medical conditions or injuries, past or present, these courses may not be suitable for you.
Environmental risks & hazards:
These may include such factors as lightening or floods although the more common would be changes in the weather, or unstable or slippery conditions underfoot. Slips and trips – this is the commonest type of accident throughout society and our courses are no exception. We will endeavour to ensure that the consequences of such a slip are not serious, but you should be aware that the likelihood of falling over or slipping is likely to be greater than you are used to.
Moreover, given the nature of the environment in which these may occur the situation can compound giving rise to a more serious incident. We have clear obligations and responsibilities, and we take these very seriously.
Acknowledgement
By booking onto this / these Activitys(s) with Dark Peak Guides you understand and recognize that:
• The nature of the risks may be different to ones I am familiar with.
• Certain inherent risks remain.
STAFF
GROUP SIZE
Ratio will be 1 Guide to every 10 Participants.
AGE LIMIT
WHAT YOU'LL NEED (KIT)
Essential Items
Footwear
- Sturdy, well-fitting hiking boots (preferably waterproof).
- Comfortable hiking socks (carry spares to change if needed).
Clothing
- Base Layer: Moisture-wicking T-shirt or thermal top.
- Mid Layer: Fleece or lightweight insulated jacket.
- Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket and trousers (Gore-Tex or similar breathable material).
- Lightweight hiking trousers or shorts (weather dependent).
- Hat and gloves (appropriate for the season).
Backpack
- 20–30L capacity (enough for essentials without being overly bulky).
- Rain cover for the backpack.
Navigation Tools
- Map and compass (or GPS device/phone with navigation apps).
- Route guide or printed instructions.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Water bottles or a hydration bladder (minimum 2 liters).
- High-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars, dried fruit, etc.).
- Packed lunch or light meal (for longer events).
Optional but Recommended
Safety and Emergency Gear
- First aid kit (plasters, blister pads, painkillers, etc.).
- Whistle (for emergencies).
- Head torch with spare batteries.
- Emergency foil blanket or bivvy bag.
Accessories
- Trekking poles (reduce strain on knees during ascents/descents).
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV protection even on cloudy days).
- Buff or neck gaiter (for wind protection).
Comfort Items
- Lightweight sit mat (for breaks).
- Spare dry clothes (to change into after the event).
Pro Tips
- Test Your Gear: Always use your kit during training hikes to ensure it’s comfortable and effective.
- Layering is Key: Adjust layers as needed to regulate body temperature and stay dry.
- Pack Light but Smart: Only carry what you need, but don’t skimp on essentials.
Would you like help picking specific gear, or do you want tips for a particular type of walking event?
ENQUIRE HERE FOR SUPPORT FOR YOUR CHARITY EVENT:
JUST FILL IN THE FORM BELOW AND WE WILL BE IN TOUCH:
Walk/ Navigate/ Experience
Navigation Training
Learning to navigate is an essential skill for outdoor adventures, allowing you to explore with confidence and handle unexpected situations.
Dark Peak Guides offer 1:1 or Group Navigation Training.
Challenges
Challenge events are organized activities designed to test participants physically and mentally, often in outdoor or endurance settings. These events range from hiking and running to multi-sport challenges and charity fundraisers.
Wild Camping
Embarking on a guided wild camping expedition is an excellent way to experience the UK’s natural beauty while ensuring safety and gaining valuable outdoor skills.
