Snowdon Ranger Hostel 2019
19 people attending
11 places left
Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, is the highest mountain in Wales and the highest British mountain south of the Scottish Highlands. It lies at an altitude of 1,085 metres.
Snowdon has six ridges: these are steep and rocky to the north and east, shallower and grassy, but more remote to the south and west. There are many cwms formed by glaciation in the ice age, some filled with tarns (meltwater lakes).
Snowdon offers some of the most extensive views in the British Isles; on exceptionally clear days, Ireland, (the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland), Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man, as well as Wales are all visible. In total that's 24 counties, 29 lakes and 17 islands! It is also possible to view Beetham Tower in Manchester and the mountains of the Peak District (Shining Tor) & South Pennines (Winter Hill) that surround the city from here.
The view between Snowdon and Merrick (southern Scotland) is the longest theoretical line of sight in the British Isles at 232 km. Put simply: it has to be seen to be believed.
The Ranger Hostel is at the foot of the Ranger Path, which approaches Snowdon from the west. We'll be able to head straight from the hostel up to the summit.
We'll have two walk groups, both led by experienced ODL mountain leaders.
One group will head off with more experienced hikers, and the other is especially designed for beginners or anyone less familiar with hiking up mountains. The beginner group will head up at a more steady pace, so that no one feels at all rushed, and so it's ideal for anyone who's got the ambition to hike mountains, but is put off by the idea of having to hike faster than they would feel comfortable with.
Dogs: There is space for four dogs to be booked onto the event at an additional cost of £30. Call the office on 0161 420 0001 to book this.
What to bring
In addition to the food items mentioned below please review the kit list. Please bear in mind that the weather here can be unpredictable and it could be very cold and windy on top of Snowdon and surrounding hills. There may even be snow and the weather can change rapidly so be prepared! You will need a towel, washing kit and clothes to wear about the hostel. If you are unsure about anything please message the Event Leader.
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch for the Saturday walk
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
Friday night buffet: Please bring one item for the buffet. Don't go overboard! Just bring enough for no more than 1 or 2 people as we always have plenty of food. if you are unsure what others are thinking of bringing then please use the comments section of the event page.
Saturday breakfast: Included in the event cost.
Saturday lunch: Please bring food for a packed lunch, snacks and drinks with you for the day. We will be out from mid-morning to early evening and not able to return to the hostel during the walks.
Saturday dinner: Three course meal that is Included in the event cost.
Sunday breakfast: Included in the event cost.
Tea & coffee will be available throughout the weekend and are supplied by OutdoorLads.
Other drinks: Please bring your own.