It's been ages since I've found the energy to get over to Wales. With the
forcast looking reasonable, I thought I'd go for it on Sunday. So after a 5
hour drive I roll up at the Pen-y-pass car park at 8.15am...........to find
it full. After a quick chat with the attended, I decided to try the Watkins
path instead and find the south-side car park empty with the exception of
single car and minibus.
[There's obviously something about Easter that brings out the 'Duke of
Edinbugh' groups. It's so unusual (but good) to see small groups of
younsters on the hill - they stick out a mile. They're usually kitted with
completely inappropriately large rucksacks - certainly brings back painful
memories for me.]
Anyway, there's plenty of cloud on the hill as I start and I have to don
waterproofs for a sweaty ascent through the slate workings and up onto the
ridge. Due to the path renovations, it's a bit like a staircase - a very
easy ascent. The wind hits hard as I get up onto the ridge. Great initial
views on the other side though. Once here, I trudge up into the cloud and
after about a couple of hours I approach the train station. I was surprised
not to find the cafe open - I can't think of a more popular day to have it
open. If it really HAS to there, why can't it be damn open?!. I must have
been up Snowdon 10 times and have yet to see it open. As I start my
sandwiches, the cloud is blown away and I and the other 30 or so summiters
are treated to a great view. After taking a few snaps and a rest, I retrace
my steps back the SE ridge towards Yr Arran and turn left at the col back
down to the mine workings.
A nice day with good views (and sore feet). Just another 5 hour drive home
to negotiate.
Here are some pictures. Click 'View all Images' and then select 'Slideshow'.
http://www.cig.canon-europe.com/album/sharerec.html?id=9AB04222F8D91EA8AD11C2EC4A3A939D&locale=en_GB
Dave