The Welsh 3000s Route

The popularity of the Welsh 3000s is most likely gained from the convenient positioning of all fifteen peaks, forming a long route of several combined paths, heading north east from Snowdon. Much of the route takes place on marked paths, with three short sections taking the walker off the beaten track.

The route can be divided in to three sections, divided by two roads, providing two meeting points for a support vehicle, where a walker can drop off and pick up gear.

Snowdon section

The start the Welsh 3000s, many spend a night at the top of Snowdon. Some may see this as a bit of a cheat, as when you wake up you're only feet away from your first peak. However, this is generally accepted as the start of the Welsh 3000s, and could instead be seen as an initiation to the challenge.

Following the first peak of the challenge, Snowdon, the route initially follows the standard Crib Goch descent, past the top of the Pyg Track and on to Crib y Ddysgl. From here, the route continues to the peak of Crib Goch.

At this point the route turns to the left, rather than descending towards the Pen-y-Pass car park, down the valley towards the A4086, and then on, following the road, to Nant Peris. Here is a good position to meet up with a support car, drop off any unneeded gear and take on supplies.

Glyder section

Following the walk to Nant Peris, the route then turns North, following the designated path towards Elidir Fawr. Upon peaking here, the route continues along the ridge, past Foel-goch, and on to Y Garn, Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach.

At this point, rather than following The Miner's Track to the East, the route turns North, peaking at Tryfan, before reaching the A5 and Llyn Ogwen - the second opportunity to meet a support vehicle.

Carneddau section

From the car park at Llyn Ogwen, the path can be followed around to Glan Dena, where Pen yr Ole Wen to the North West should be climbed in almost a direct line, rather than following the rather long winded path.

From the peak the designated path can again be followed around the head of the valley, taking in Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llewelyn. A path to the West following the peak of Cardedd Llewelyn leads to Yr Elen, which can then be retraced, to continue the path to Foel Grach, Garnedd Uchaf and Foel Fras.