Three North Wales mountains have been named among the best climbs in the UK.
With the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park right on the doorstep, North Wales is blessed with an array of scenic walks and climbs suited for all levels of adventurers.
GO Outdoors has compiled a list of the top 15 best mountains in the UK to climb with three North Wales Mountains featuring on the list.
The outdoor equipment company said: "Whether you’re trying the Yorkshire 3 peaks, the National 3 Peaks, or setting out on a long-term goal like Munro Bagging, the mountains are an amazing journey of discovery, challenge and reward."
The best mountains in the UK to climb
The 15 best mountains to climb in the UK, according to Go Outdoors are:
- Ben Nevis, Lochaber
- Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Snowdonia
- Scafell Pike, Lake District
- Tryfan, Snowdonia
- Slieve Donard, County Down
- Helvellyn, Lake District
- Ben Macdui, Cairngorms
- Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacons
- Great Gable, Lake District
- Buachaille Etive Mor, Highlands
- Cadair Idris, Gwynedd
- Pen y Ghent, Yorkshire Dales
- Schiehallion, Perth & Kinross
- Cat Bells, Lake District
- Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond & Trossachs
GO Outdoors added: "These are just 15 of the hundreds of mountains around the UK.
"There is so much out there to discover, so we highly recommend brushing up on your map reading skills and heading out!"
The North Wales mountains among the best in the UK to climb
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Snowdonia
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 14.40 km
Time to climb/walk (approximately): 5.40 hours
GO Outdoors said: "The most popular mountain in the UK, Snowdon is the highest In Wales & England and attracts more visitors than any other mountain, well over 585,000 each year.
"There are a number of well-worn tracks to reach the summit of Snowdon, with the Llanberis Path being the most popular.
"Its popularity means that through summer, this mountain is very busy and with a railway to the top, and a visitor centre on the summit – it maybe doesn’t have the traditional summit feel that some of the mountains on this list have.
"That being said, you have to climb Snowdon at least once, as the view from the top was recently voted the most spectacular view in the UK."
Tryfan, Snowdonia
Grade: Difficult
Distance: 6.50 km
Time to climb/walk: 3.10 hours
GO Outdoors said: "According to Trail Magazine a few years ago, Tryfan won their public vote for Britain’s favourite mountain.
"Although it’s only the 15th tallest in Wales, this favourite has a lot to offer.
"It’s a distinctive and easily recognisable place, with it’s pointed top looking like a fin made of three ridges.
"Tryfan is considered a line between rambling and mountaineering, as the closer to the top you get, you will need to use your hands and feet to reach the summit.
"Not for the faint of heart, or the unfit, Tryan can be dangerous if not properly respected. The most popular route to the top is the North Ridge."
Cadair Idris, Gwynedd
Grade: Difficult
Distance: 8.84 km
Time: 3.40 hours
GO Outdoors said: "Cadair Idris is a real favourite for those who have climbed it, it’s not as busy as the more popular mountains in Snowdonia, but the glacial carved scenery is beautiful and not to be missed.
"There are three main routes to the summit: Pony Path, Foxs Path and Minffordd Path. The ascent is a challenge due to being relentlessly uphill (it’s a mountain, but what we mean is that it’s steep on the paths) so an element of fitness is required."
Tips for climbing mountains safely
The experts at GO Outdoors have also put together their top tips on how to climb a mountain safely:
- Check the Met Office Mountain Forecast
- Use a buddy system
- Use appropriate gear
- Keep hydrated and stay nourished
- Communicate with others
- Follow safety guidelines
GO Outdoors added: "The MOST IMPORTANT thing to remember before climbing any mountain at any time of year is to travel prepared."
For more safety tips and climbing ideas visit the Go Outdoors website.
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