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Llanberis

Llanberis Pass – Pen-y-Pass Climb

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Llanberis Pass – Pen-y-Pass Climb

Road cycling

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Cycling

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Running

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Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri

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  • Location: Llanberis, Gwynedd, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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    Tips

    August 7, 2022

    Road cycling

    Awesome mountain road from Nant Peris in the west to the top of Pen-y-pass in the east. It's a long climb up from Nant Peris or an exciting descent in the other direction. The A4086 follows the Llanberis Pass with historically important rock climbing and bouldering on both sides. Snowdon is to the south and the Glyders to the north.
    Café and shop at the car park at the top along with the YHA Pen-y-pass. There is a nice pub in Nant Peris and cafes and shops in Llanberis a bit further down the road,

    May 18, 2018

    Road cycling

    Great on road downhill through Llanberris pass.

    March 25, 2024

    Road cycling

    Pen-y-Pass is the climb out of Llanberis on the A4086 up to the Pen-y-Pass lodge where several walking routes to the summit of Snowdon start from. The lodge helpfully is …
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Llanberis Pass – Pen-y-Pass Climb

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    5.0

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    731

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    #1.

    Pen y Pass and Beddgelert from Bangor loop — Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

    74.7km

    03:32

    950m

    950m

    Embark on a challenging road cycling adventure through Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri / Snowdonia National Park. This difficult 46.4-mile (74.7 km) loop takes you past dramatic mountain scenery, including the iconic Snowdon massif and the Glyderau. You will experience significant climbs, such as the renowned Pen-y-Pass, which offers stunning views looking back down the Gwynant Valley. The route involves a substantial 3113 feet (949 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete, making it ideal for experienced cyclists. Expect constantly changing vistas, from rugged peaks to tranquil lakes and even glimpses of the coast.

    This loop starts from Bangor, making it accessible for cyclists looking to explore the region. The route is designed for road bikes, with its surface predominantly consisting of asphalt and paved roads, ensuring a smooth ride. Given its difficulty and significant elevation, you should have a good fitness level before attempting this ride. Always check local conditions before you go, especially regarding weather in the mountainous areas of Snowdonia.

    What makes this trail particularly notable is its inclusion of the Pen-y-Pass climb, widely considered one of the most beautiful ascents in the UK. The route offers a diverse cross-section of Snowdonia's natural beauty, from the rugged mountain passes of Nant Ffrancon Valley to the serene valleys around Beddgelert. This challenging yet rewarding journey provides a deep immersion into the park's varied landscapes, connecting several well-known locations within the National Park.

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    Hard
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    Embark on a challenging racebike loop through Snowdonia National Park, covering 30.6 miles (49.3 km) with a significant 2346 feet (715 metres) of elevation gain. This route, which takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes to complete, offers dramatic mountain landscapes and a mix of historic industrial heritage. You will cycle past the stunning Llyn Ogwen, with the imposing peaks of Tryfan and Pen yr Ole Wen as a backdrop, before tackling the spectacular road climb of Llanberis Pass, framed by Snowdon and the Glyders.

    This loop is considered a moderate road ride, but it demands very good fitness due to its significant climbs and varied terrain. While most surfaces are well-paved, be prepared for some unpaved sections that can be challenging and might even require you to push your bike. Planning your ride with good fitness in mind will ensure you can fully enjoy the demanding ascents and the rewarding descents.

    The route is notable for traversing some of Snowdonia's most iconic landscapes, popular with outdoor enthusiasts. A significant part of the journey includes the Lon Las Ogwen cycleway, celebrated as one of North Wales' finest cycle trails, which follows a former railway line and offers a gentler experience with spectacular views. You will also gain insight into the region's rich geological and industrial history, with glimpses of the slate quarrying industry, including the Penrhyn Quarry.

    Moderate
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    4.6

    (5)

    208

    riders

    Embark on the Pen y Pass and Marchlyn Mawr climb loop from Llanberis, a difficult road cycling route that challenges you with 3296 feet (1004 metres) of elevation gain. This 34.0 miles (54.6 km) journey takes approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete, offering a substantial test of your cycling prowess. As you climb, you will experience impressive mountain scenery, passing by the iconic Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and enjoying expansive views across Snowdonia, with glimpses of Anglesey from higher points.

    When planning your ride, be aware that the road leading to Marchlyn Mawr Dam is typically closed to cars but remains accessible for bikes. You might need to lift your bike over a gate to continue on this section of the route. Given the steep gradients encountered throughout the loop, equipping your bike with sensible gearing is highly recommended to manage the challenging ascents effectively. This preparation ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the demanding climbs.

    This route immerses you in the dramatic Welsh landscape, particularly around the remote Marchlyn Mawr reservoir area, which provides a stunning and isolated backdrop for your ride. The continuous, panoramic vistas you gain from the challenging climbs are a significant reward, showcasing the natural beauty of Eryri National Park. It is a prime example of a route that combines rigorous physical exertion with truly memorable natural surroundings, making it a notable challenge in the region.

    Hard

    Details

    Informations

    Distance 4.88 km

    Uphill 0 m

    Downhill 260 m

    Weather

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    Tuesday 4 August

    16°C

    11°C

    57 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h

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    Location: Llanberis, Gwynedd, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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