East Ridge

The striking east ridge of Snowdon rises 800 feet to the peak from verdant high benches to the east. This infrequently-traveled route is probably the easiest way to the summit, trading extra elevation for drama-free scrambling and incredible vistas, and it offers a great scenic alternative to the usual routes.

From the attractive basin below Snowdon's east face, ramble west up the ridge. The difficulty should not exceed easy 3rd Class, and obstacles may be bypassed to the left (south) or tackled directly for more spice.

This route combines well with other summit routes (up or down).

Follow the normal route via Andrews Lake to the saddle between Snowdon and "N 1" (12,647'). Continue along the ridge to the south towards the northeast ridge. At the point where this short ridge meets the northeast ridge and a broad east-facing ridge, there is a shallow saddle. This is the northeast shoulder.

Descend east/southeast below the crest of the broad ridge and locate a downward-trending ramp that skirts broken terrain to the south. Descend this ramp 200' past the cliffs (Class 2+), then beeline south another 200' down talus to the waiting meadows.

It's also possible to descend the ridgeline to the east instead, turning back to the south to access the east end of the bench by mellower terrain.

Contour south-southwest to reach the base of the prominent east ridge, keeping to the higher grassy areas to avoid marsh.

A helmet.