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Yr Aran via the Historic Watkin Path

Yr Aran Walk

I absolutely loved this walk up Yr Aran and will be doing it again so I can really appreciate the views, sadly I had a little cloud just as Ziggy and I reached the summit, but it was still breathtaking and the elusive glimpses of views made it a definite that I will be back with my big camera!

An Alternative to Snowdon

Yr Aran is a peak in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia). It’s a great alternative to summiting Yr Wyddfa on those busy mountain days. You might bag a parking space, but it seems like the whole world will be on the top of Snowdon. That takes the pleasure out of hill walking for me.

This little video guide to Yr Aran will get you ready. You’ll be prepared to tackle this charming peak. You start from the legendary Watkin Path. The pleasure you will experience as you bear left while everyman and his dog continues up the Watkin path is immeasurable!

Watch the Video of Yr Aran

The Route up Yr Aran from Nant Gwynant

You can find the route I took on OS Maps – Yr Aran – I would recommend you download the app and download the route before you leave the house so you can use your gps and see your location even when their is no signal. I’d also advise you take a map with you – the paper map you will need for this area is Snowdon / Yr Wydffa OS Explorer OL17.

If you are not a confident navigator then don’t try this route unless you have checked that the weather is suitable and you will have good visability for the entire walk duration.

While it may sit in the shadow of its massively more famous neighbour, Yr Wyddfa, Yr Aran has a charm all its own. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking tranquillity and a different perspective of Eryri. I absolutely loved the walk and despite cloud at the top I was amazed by the summit, there are some pretty amazing sheer drops!

Where do you park to go up Yr Aran?

You can start your walk up Yr Aran from Nantgwynant where there’s parking available. From here, you’ll have easy access to the Watkin Path that leads to Yr Aran.

Park in the Pont Bethania Car park or look along the A498 nearby for free parking, I found a spot fairly easily at around 8am on a September weekend… you may struggle in the summer if you don’t start early.

How Long does it take to walk up Yr Aran from Nant Gwynant

The route I took up and down Yr Aran starting at the Watkin Path is about 6 miles long and takes around 4 hours. You will need a decent level of fitness to complete this walk. Make sure you bring all of the essential walking and hiking equipment.

How High is Yr Aran

Yr Aran is 2451 ft / 747m high. This is around 1000 feet lower than Yr Wydffa (Snowdon) which you can see in the background of this picture below.

If you’re interested in walking up more mountains in Snowdonia then check out my big list and more great walks in north Wales here – Snowdonia Mountains List