YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass
Gateway to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass is one of the most iconic locations in Snowdonia National Park and a primary starting point for climbing Yr Wyddfa, the highest mountain in Wales.
Situated at the famous Pen-y-Pass mountain pass, this historic hostel attracts hikers, climbers, walkers, and visitors from across the UK and beyond. It is widely recognised as the main gateway to Snowdon’s most popular routes.
Whether you are staying overnight or arriving early to begin your ascent, Pen-y-Pass remains one of the most important access points to Yr Wyddfa.
Where Is Pen-y-Pass?
Pen-y-Pass is a high mountain pass located within Snowdonia National Park, between Llanberis and Capel Curig.
At approximately 359 metres above sea level, it serves as a major trailhead for Snowdon and surrounding peaks. Due to its popularity, access by car is often restricted, especially during peak seasons and weekends.
Because of limited parking and road controls, advance transport planning is essential.
About YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass Hostel
YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass is one of the most scenic hostels in the UK and offers direct access to Snowdon’s main hiking routes.
Facilities include:
Shared and private rooms
On-site café and dining area
Drying rooms for outdoor gear
Early access to Snowdon paths
Panoramic mountain views
It is particularly popular with walkers planning early morning or sunrise ascents
Snowdon Routes from Pen-y-Pass
Pen-y-Pass is the starting point for some of Snowdon’s most famous and well-used routes.
Pyg Track
A popular and well-defined path offering dramatic views. Suitable for fit walkers with basic mountain experience.
Miners’ Track
A longer but more gradual route at the start, passing scenic lakes before joining the Pyg Track higher up.
These routes make Pen-y-Pass one of the busiest and most sought-after trailheads in Snowdonia
How to Get to Pen-y-Pass
Accessing Pen-y-Pass by car can be challenging due to:
Very limited parking
Seasonal traffic restrictions
Early morning congestion
Weather-related road conditions
Public transport options are limited, particularly for early starts or late returns after a full day on the mountain.
For this reason, many hikers choose pre-booked private transport.
Taxi Transfers to YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass
Rapid Ride provides reliable, pre-booked taxi transfers to YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass and nearby Snowdon trailheads.
We regularly serve customers travelling from:
Bangor
Caernarfon
Llanberis
Betws-y-Coed
Local hotels, campsites, and railway stations
Why choose Rapid Ride
Early morning and late-night availability
No parking or permit worries
Local drivers familiar with Snowdonia roads
Fixed, upfront pricing
Ideal for one-way and circular hikes
You focus on the hike. We take care of the journey.
Popular Journeys to Pen-y-Pass
Bangor to Pen-y-Pass
Caernarfon to YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass
Llanberis to Pen-y-Pass
Betws-y-Coed to Snowdon trailheads
Return pickup after descent
Advance booking is strongly recommended during busy periods.
Best Time to Visit Pen-y-Pass
Spring & Summer: Busiest period with best weather but limited access
Autumn: Quieter, excellent views, shorter daylight hours
Winter: Suitable for experienced walkers only. Snow and ice common
Reliable transport becomes even more important outside peak daylight hours.
Book Your Taxi to YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass
If you are staying at YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass or planning a hike up Yr Wyddfa, book your transport in advance and avoid the stress of parking and restrictions.
👉 Book your Snowdon taxi with Rapid Ride today
We’ll get you there safely, on time, and ready for the mountains.