Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) Challenge Weekend – Watkin Path
Take on the stunning Watkin Path to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) while enjoying a sociable weekend in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia). Based at the Watkin Bunkhouse, right at the start of this renowned route, you'll walk directly from the door, with spectacular scenery awaiting you every step of the way.
Experience Type: Multi-Day Experience
Duration: 2 nights
Accommodation: Bunkhouse
Group Size: Maximum 20
Level: Active Plus
Age: 18+
Dogs: No dogs, except trained assistance dogs
In a Nutshell:
Summit Challenge: Walk the Watkin Path to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), guided by an experienced Mountain Leader.
Exclusive Location: Stay in the historic Watkin Bunkhouse, nestled in the Nant Gwynant valley.
Social Atmosphere: Enjoy freshly prepared meals, a warm welcome, and camaraderie with like-minded walkers.
Local Exploration: Round off the weekend with a gentle Sunday walk in the beautiful surrounding area.
Book today…
A full guided Challenge Weekend taking on the Watkin Path - Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Take on the challenge of summiting Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Wales’ highest peak, via the Watkin Path – a route known for its beauty, history, and rewarding sense of achievement. Staying at the Watkin Bunkhouse, perfectly positioned at the start of this iconic trail, you'll embark on a sociable weekend in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia) with experienced guides and a group of like-minded walkers.
The Watkin Path offers a spectacular yet demanding ascent, starting in the peaceful woodlands of Nant Gwynant before climbing into the dramatic glacial valley of Cwm Llan. Along the way, you’ll encounter waterfalls, historic slate mines, and landmarks like Gladstone Rock, before taking on a final scrambling section to reach the summit. At 1,085 metres, the views stretch across Wales, Anglesey, and on a clear day, even as far as Ireland.
This weekend is ideal for anyone looking to experience the challenge of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in a safe, supportive, and sociable setting. Whether you're raising money for charity or simply want to achieve a personal goal, this guided event offers the perfect blend of adventure and camaraderie.
With comfortable bunkhouse accommodation, freshly prepared meals, and a friendly group atmosphere, this is more than just a walk – it’s a weekend to remember.
A group complete their Yr Wyddfa Challenge Walk
Suggested Itinerary
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Arrive from 5pm at the Watkin Bunkhouse, where your host will welcome you. Settle in, meet your fellow walkers, and enjoy a freshly prepared evening meal. We’ll run through the plan for the weekend before relaxing in the cosy surroundings of this National Trust property.
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Today, we tackle the Watkin Path, one of the most challenging yet rewarding routes to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
This walk begins right from the bunkhouse and takes you through the peaceful woodlands of Nant Gwynant before opening up into the glacial valley of Cwm Llan. Along the way, you'll encounter historic landmarks like Gladstone Rock and the remains of old slate mines, as well as cascading waterfalls and dramatic crags.
The route becomes steeper as we ascend toward Bwlch y Saethau, where myth meets reality at the spot King Arthur is said to have fallen. From here, the final scramble to the summit demands focus and determination, but the panoramic views from the top make every step worthwhile.
We’ll pause at the summit to celebrate your achievement and soak in the scenery stretching across Wales and beyond, before descending via either the South Ridge or the Miner's Path, depending on group preference and weather conditions. Expect to be out for 6–8 hours.
Back at the bunkhouse, enjoy a well-deserved meal and relax with your group as you relive the day’s adventure.
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After breakfast, join us for a gentle walk in the local area. We might head to Beddgelert to visit the legendary grave of Gelert and explore the Fisherman’s Walk along the river. We’ll aim to finish around lunchtime, giving you time to say goodbye and begin your journey home.
Essential Information
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Meeting Time:
You can arrive any time from 5pm - the Large Outdoors host will be at the accommodation to welcome you. Dinner will be served around 8pm so if you intend to arrive later than this, please ensure you have something to eat on the way.Meeting Location:
Watkin Bunkhouse
Hafod Y Llan
Nant Gwynant
Beddgelert
Gwynedd
LL55 4NQParking: There is limited free parking available at the accommodation.
Public Transport:
The Snowdon Sherpa stops a short walk away. You will want the S4 service.https://www.sherparwyddfa.wales/times.shtml
Please note: On some days there could be a short drive required - where activities don’t start from the door of the accommodation. We don't include transport and participants normally car share. Some of our possible routes for the weekend mean we may need to jump on a local bus - the cost for these journeys is not included.Finish Time: We aim to finish on the final day between 1pm and 3pm - the exact finish time may depend on the planned/chosen activity, group dynamic, weather conditions, whether the group chooses to grab a coffee or lunch together during/after, etc. If you’ve travelled via public transport, please ensure you book onward travel accordingly (i.e. an open return ticket), to allow for flexibility.
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The Watkin Bunkhouse, located right at the start of the iconic Watkin Path, offers a fantastic base for walkers tackling Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Nestled in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia National Park), this National Trust accommodation combines rustic charm with modern comfort. Its convenient location makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore this stunning part of Wales.
Please note bedding is NOT provided and please bring a towel and don’t forget your own toiletries.
Accommodation Address:
Watkin Bunkhouse
Hafod Y Llan
Nant Gwynant
Beddgelert
Gwynedd
LL55 4NQRoom Types:
You can book one of the following options, subject to availability:
Bed in a Shared Female Room
Bed in a Shared Male RoomThere are Shared Rooms, where you’ll be sharing a room - with single beds, no bunks - with other participants (room sizes vary and bathrooms are shared).
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Included:
2 nights accommodation in the National Trust Watkin Bunkhouse - we have taken over exclusive use of the accommodation, so it will just be Large Outdoors participants staying.
A Large Outdoors host/guide to welcome you, deal with meal preparation and the logistics for your experience.
Guided walks on 2 days (Day 2 & Day 3) through the magical Snowdonia National Park.
Home-cooked set 2-course dinners at the accommodation on both evenings.
A DIY breakfast each morning (toast, cereals, fruit and yoghurt provided).
A DIY packed lunch (sandwich and snacks) for Day 2’s walk.
Tea (including decaf and herbal options), coffee (including decaf option), and squash at the accommodation.
The chance to make new friends and meet like-minded people - Large Outdoors is all about making outdoor adventures sociable.
Pre-event support from the Large Outdoors team - give us a shout if there’s any advice or information you need and check out our Blog for useful articles too.
Not included:
Travel to and from the meeting location.
Travel from the accommodation to activity start points and back, where they don’t start from the door. On some days there could be a short drive required - we don't include transport and participants normally car share. Some of our possible routes for the weekend mean we may need to jump on a local bus. This cost is not included.
Bedding and towels
Any extra (i.e. not mentioned above in ‘Included’) excursions or activities that you may partake in which incur a cost.
Bottled water - tap water and squash are available at the accommodation, so please ensure you bring sufficient water bottles or carriers to fill up and take out with you.
Alcoholic drinks - please feel free to bring something with you to enjoy at the accommodation, or there’s a handy shop next door.
Any food, drinks or goods you choose to purchase at any shops, restaurant, pubs or cafés visited.
Travel/activity insurance - we recommend having insurance to cover, at a minimum: cancellation and curtailment; medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation); personal accident; injury and death.
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Please see our Residential (Walking) Kit List.
The compulsory items are selected for your safety, which is of paramount importance to us at Large Outdoors. Each participant should be carrying the items listed.
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• What level of fitness is needed?
This trip is graded as Active. Click here to see Large Outdoors’ Experience Levels.• Can I attend on my own?
Absolutely. The majority of our participants are solo travellers and adventurers. Plenty of fun, laughter and numerous long-term friendships (and a few marriages!) have begun on Large Outdoors experiences since 2008, so there’s no need to feel worried about your first experience, or indeed trying a new type of outdoor activity, with us.• I am currently on a specific diet / have an allergy - can you cater for me?
Unfortunately, we are generally unable to cater for a wide variety of diets or food preferences due to the nature and cost of our catered trips and/or the use of shared kitchens. However, we can offer vegetarian meals, vegan meals, provide meals with gluten* free ingredients, and/or provide dairy* free meals - these options can be selected when booking. *Please see our general FAQs for more information about dietary options.• What transport is provided during this trip?
We do not provide any transport for this experience. On some days there could be a short drive required to activity start points and back, where they don’t start from the accommodation - participants normally car share. Some of our possible routes for the weekend mean we may need to jump on a local bus - the cost for these journeys is not included.• Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not allowed on this experience, except for trained assistance dogs. If you wish to bring your trained assistance dog, please let us know in advance of booking so we can discuss the itinerary and any activity/equipment/accommodation, and of course additional safety requirements or considerations that may be necessary.
The History of the Watkin Path on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
The Watkin Path is one of the most historically significant routes to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). It was originally created by Sir Edward Watkin, a railway entrepreneur and politician, in the late 19th century. Sir Edward owned a summer residence near the start of the path and was passionate about improving access to the mountain for both locals and visitors.
The path was constructed with labour from nearby slate quarries, reflecting the industrial heritage of Eryri (Snowdonia). Sir Edward intended it to be a scenic route for walkers, combining the challenge of a mountain climb with the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The Watkin Path begins near Bethania and passes through woodlands and waterfalls before opening up to dramatic views of the rugged terrain.
In 1892, the path gained historical significance when Prime Minister William Gladstone officially opened it during a public ceremony. A large boulder, known as "Gladstone Rock," commemorates his visit and remains a landmark along the route.
The Watkin Path is unique in its mix of natural beauty and historical importance. While it starts with a gentle incline through lush surroundings, it becomes one of the steepest routes near the summit, offering both a rewarding challenge and a connection to the rich history of Yr Wyddfa.
A group taking in the sunrise from Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) on a Large Outdoors Challenge Walk
Complete the Challenge for Charity or Yourself
Taking on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via the Watkin Path is a meaningful achievement, whether you're raising funds for a cause close to your heart or challenging yourself to accomplish something extraordinary.
Charity Fundraising:
Summiting Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is a powerful way to support a charity. The climb symbolises perseverance and commitment, making it an inspiring way to rally donations. By joining this guided event, you’ll have the confidence of experienced support, allowing you to focus on your goal while enjoying the camaraderie of the group. Fundraising for charity also connects your challenge to a greater purpose, amplifying your motivation.
Personal Challenge:
If you’re walking purely for yourself, this event is a chance to set a goal, push your limits, and enjoy the rewards of completing one of the UK’s most iconic walks. Whether it’s about stepping outside your comfort zone, celebrating a milestone, or simply enjoying the outdoors, the Watkin Path provides a route that’s both rewarding and memorable.
Heading down the Llanberis Path on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) after a Sunrise Challenge
Why Join a Guided Challenge with Large Outdoors
Taking on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) with a Mountain Leader and experienced group offers numerous benefits:
Safety First: The Watkin Path involves steep sections and some scrambling near the summit. With an experienced guide leading the way, you can walk with confidence, knowing you’re in safe hands.
Route Knowledge: Our leaders bring invaluable local knowledge, from navigating weather conditions to pointing out key landmarks like Gladstone Rock or explaining the fascinating slate-mining history of the area.
Stress-Free Navigation: Forget worrying about maps or getting lost – your guide ensures you stay on track and makes decisions to adapt the route based on weather and group preferences.
Supportive Atmosphere: Walking with a guide and group creates a collaborative, friendly environment. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned walker, you’ll feel encouraged and supported every step of the way.
Focus on the Experience: Let us handle the logistics so you can fully immerse yourself in the scenery, stories, and satisfaction of reaching the summit.
Whether you're aiming to fundraise or to challenge yourself personally, completing this iconic climb with a guide makes the experience safer, more sociable, and truly unforgettable.
This map is provided for guidance regarding the general location. For detailed meeting information, please refer to the 'Meeting Time & Location' section.