Classic Scrambling Routes in North Wales
Here are some brilliant scrambles in Snowdonia.
Crib Goch (Llanberis Pass)- Grade 1/2
Crib Goch Red Ridge is in the Snowdon Massif and forms part of the Snowdon Horseshoe. It is a very exposed scramble that starts as a broad rib then higher up turns into a classic knife edge ridge with steep sides and a very narrow top. It is possible to carry on scrambling to Lliwedd after you have reached the Snowdon Summit to complete the Snowdon Horseshoe.Seniors Ridge (Ogwen) – Grade 1
This ridge separates Cwm Idwal and Cwm Cneifion. It’s reached by a path that leads up into Cwm Cneifion. The ridge is wide and easy to follow with a choice of lines. It can be taken as a walking route or scrambled, with the more difficult and interesting sections being found on the right side overlooking Cwm Idwal.
Bristly Ridge (Ogwen) Grade 1/2
This is an iconic classic scramble and possibly the best grade 1 in North Wales. The route starts at Bwlch Tryfan and follows the amazing ridge to bring you out on boulder-littered summit of Glyder Fach. We normally start the ridge via Sinister Gully before climbing the ridge itself with constant interest past the Great Pinnacle Gap. It is possible for the fit to combine this with a scramble on Tryfan for a long, but very satisfying day out.
Nor Nor Groove (Ogwen) Grade 1/2
An often quiet and more difficult route up Tryfan via a Nor Nor Groove on the East Face. We can either approach by a short walk or it is possible to do the Tryfan Bach approach (Grade 3). At the Heather Terrace we climb the groove system that overlooks the gloomy Nor Nor Gully. We top out just by the notch on the North Ridge, which is followed a short distance to the top.
Little and North Gullies (Ogwen) Grade 1/2.
Another scramble on Tryfan’s mighty East Face, starting further along than Nor Nor Groove. The first section of North Gully is quite difficult, so Little Gully is used to bypass it. Several good gully pitches lead upwards until a path leads into North Gully.
Cneifion Arete (Ogwen) - Grade 3
This is a superb arete with an alpine feel that lies above Llyn Idwal. The hardest part of the scramble is at the start with very steep rock, but the holds are good. Above there are lots of flakes and spikes to use as both hand holds and as protection. The top half of the route is a good place to practice moving together whilst roped-up. This scramble is quite exposed so you will need a head for heights.
Clogwyn Y Person Arete (Llanberis Pass - Clogwyn y Ddysgyl) Grade 3
This is one of the very best scrambles in Snowdonia and an alternative, quieter and harder method of climbing Snowdon if Crib Goch is looking busy. A long, interesting walk-in from the Llanberis Pass via Cwm Glas leads to the start of the ridge is required. The solid rock gives you a choice of Grade 2 or Grade 3 starts and the natural line of the route gives the feeling of a an alpine ascent - In winter this makes a classic grade III. From the ridge itself you get stunning views left to Crib Goch and back over the Glyderau.
More info - Classic Scrambles
There are any other routes that offer equally good days out in possibly quieter surroundings: the intimidating Sentries Ridge on Mynydd Mawr or the exposed routes on Glyder Fach - East Gully, Main Gully and Sharks Buttress.
If you want some background information, there are several guide books covering the best scrambles in North Wales. Probably the best are Scrambles and 'Easy Climbs in Snowdonia' and 'Scrambles in Snowdonia' by Steven Ashton.
There is also a useful online resource at UKScrambles.com
All of our scrambling instruction is by arrangement and totally customisable. Simply contact us with the names of the routes that you want to climb, or a grade range and climb type. We will get back to you with a list of the best scrambles for you.
Rates per person
The course price depends on the ratio of clients to instructor.
Half Day
Ratio 1:1
£150 per 1/2 day
Ratio 2:1
£95 per 1/2 day
Ratio 3:1
£75 per 1/2 day
Ratio >6:1
£60 per 1/2 day
Full Day
Ratio 1:1
£220 per day
Ratio 2:1
£120 per day
Ratio 3:1
£95 per day
Ratio >6:1
£75 per day
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