SNOWDONIA SKYLINE ULTRA RUN

This breathtaking skyline presents an exciting challenge, and this page contains everything you need to know to take it on. Originally conceived and completed by Chris Wearne in May 2014, and featured on GOFAR, my friend Jack Oliver and I decided to attempt the route almost ten years later. We managed to set a new record time of 11 hours and 28 minutes. Read on to discover how we did it and how you can try it too!

An Ultra Run Spanning 38 Miles, 24 Summits and 4,700 Meters of Climbing Along the Northeast-to-Southwest Skyline of Snowdonia National Park, from Conwy to Nebo.

Looking towards Snowdon with the spectacular Y Lliwedd in the background

The Snowdonia Skyline: The Ultimate Ultra Distance Running Challenge

If you're an ultra-runner seeking your next big adventure, the Snowdonia Skyline is a must-consider. This incredible route takes you on an amazing journey across one of the UK's most incredible landscapes, merging the challenge of endurance running with exciting scrambling and the stunning scenery of Snowdonia National Park

What Is the Snowdonia Skyline?

The Snowdonia Skyline is an ultra marathon, covering 38 miles from Conwy to Nebo along the stunning skyline of Snowdonia National Park. As you cross this route, you'll tackle 24 peaks and climb a daunting 4,700 meters (more than 15,000 feet). It’s a serious test of endurance, skill, and mental strength, offering a chance to experience the rugged beauty of North Wales in a truly unique way. The route was first dreamed up and completed by Chris Wearne back in May 2014, when he ran it unsupported in just under 24 hours, with a 3-hour bivvy on Foel Grach to recharge.

The Route: A Closer Look

The route begins at the National Park boundary in Conwy, a historic town on Wales' north coast. From there, you travel straight into the heart of Snowdonia, tracing a skyline that connects some of the region's most iconic peaks.

Firstly is the Carneddau range, a remote and wild stretch that offers breathtaking views and a rare sense of isolation. As you move on to the Glyderau, you'll face the famous scrambles of Tryfan North Ridge and Bristly Ridge, where your technical climbing skills will be tested. Next, the route takes you through the Snowdon range, where you'll conquer Crib Goch, a knife-edge ridge that demands a steady nerve and a head for heights. The final leg of the journey is the Nantlle Ridge, a less-travelled but equally stunning range that guides you down to your finish line in Nebo.

The Snowdonia Skyline is more than just a physical challenge. You'll navigate tough terrain, including steep climbs and descents, rocky scrambles, and exposed ridges. This route is a true test of both physical endurance and mental grit, pushing you to keep going until you reach the National Park boundary in the southwest.

Chris Wearne's list of summits for the Snowdonia Skyline

Key Highlights of the Snowdonia Skyline

The Carneddau Range: This expansive, often underrated range offers a sense of isolation that’s rare to find. With vast, grassy plateaus stretching out before you, the Carneddau provides a humbling experience, where the solitude and sweeping views leave a lasting impression.
Tryfan North Ridge and Bristly Ridge: These Grade 1 scrambles are standout moments on the route. With a perfect blend of hands-on climbing and breathtaking views, they offer both a physical and visual reward, making the challenging ascent worthwhile.
Crib Goch: Arguably one of the most renowned ridges in the UK, Crib Goch is a heart-pounding experience. This exposed, knife-edge ridge isn’t for the faint-hearted and will test both your nerves and your physical endurance. The thrill of navigating its narrow path is a true highlight of the Snowdonia Skyline.
The Snowdon Range: Conquering Snowdon, the tallest peak in Wales, is a significant milestone for any runner. Standing at the summit, especially at sunrise or sunset, provides unmatched panoramic views and a profound sense of accomplishment that stays with you long after your descent.
The Nantlle Ridge: The route’s final section offers a tranquil and scenic end to your adventure. With fewer people and breathtaking landscapes, the Nantlle Ridge is a hidden gem that allows for a peaceful conclusion to your journey, complete with stunning vistas that are perfect for reflection after an exhilarating challenge.

Jack Oliver running over the Carneddau with Carnedd Llewlyn in the background

Planning Your Run

Planning for the Snowdonia Skyline is indeed crucial given its length and challenging nature. Here are some expanded tips based on your points that can help runners prepare effectively:

Training:

Endurance and Strength Building: Incorporate long runs into your training regimen, progressively increasing the distance each week. Include hill sprints and interval training to improve strength and speed on ascents, with being an ultra running coach at James Gibson Coaching, I can help coach you towards goals like this ultra.
Technical Skills: Practice running on uneven and rocky terrain to get comfortable with the scrambles. Spend time in the hills to simulate race conditions.
Long-Distance Runs: Schedule at least one or two long-distance runs on the weekends to build the stamina needed for ultra-distance events and to help your body adapt to sustained efforts.

Navigation:

Map and Compass Skills: Familiarize yourself with reading topographical maps and using a compass for navigation. Practising these skills in varying weather conditions can be valuable, I also offer navigation courses, if you need additional help.
GPS Device: Ensure your GPS device is fully charged and has the route preloaded. Knowing how to navigate without it is also important, as reliance solely on technology can be risky.
Weather Awareness: Keep an eye on weather forecasts leading up to your run and be prepared to change your plans if conditions become dangerous.

Gear:

Clothing: Choose moisture-wicking, breathable layers that can accommodate changing weather conditions. A good waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat are essential, I highly recommend INOV8 and being an ambassador I've always used their kit for any ultra that I do.
First-Aid Kit: Include the basics—bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, and any personal medications.
Nutrition and Hydration: Bring lightweight, high-energy snacks (like gels, bars, or trail mix) and a hydration system. Plan hydration points along the route where you can refill if necessary.
Emergency Gear: A bivvy bag is an excellent choice for emergencies. It can provide warmth and protection if you need to take cover.
Footwear: Since you're an ambassador for INOV8, ensure you choose a well-fitted, supportive shoe designed for trail running that can handle rugged terrain and provide good grip.

Additional Tips:

Practice Runs: Try to complete sections of the Skyline route if possible. This will give you firsthand experience of the terrain and help gauge how your body handles the climbs and descents.
Have a Plan: Establish checkpoints for yourself and communicate your route to someone who is not participating. Have a contingency plan in case things go differently than expected.

With proper training and preparation, you can tackle the Snowdonia Skyline confidently. If you'd like to discuss specific training plans or other details, feel free to ask!

INOV8 MUDTALON SPEED, the ultimate fell shoe!

Support Points:

Ogwen: This point is a good location to hydrate and refuel early in your journey. Make sure to plan what specific supplies you'll need for the next leg.
Pen y Pass: Close to the Snowdon path, this is an ideal spot to take a break and replenish your energy before tackling the more challenging sections ahead.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon Summit): Though it's a highlight of the route, consider timing your ascent and descent here to avoid peak crowds. The summit is also a great place to take photos, but be mindful of the weather as conditions can change rapidly.
Rhyd Ddu: A final chance to refuel and regroup before the last stretch. Make sure you have a plan for your mental and physical state as you approach the end of your adventure.

Unsupported Running:

Added Challenge: Choosing to go unsupported means you'll need to carry everything you need. This requires careful planning on your nutrition, hydration, and gear to ensure you have what you need without being weighed down.
Self-Sufficiency: Being self-sufficient not only tests your physical abilities but also your navigation skills and mental toughness. Prepare well to meet these challenges head-on.

Timing:

Aim for Under 16 Hours: Completing the Skyline within this timeframe is ambitious but achievable with the right training and pacing strategy. Calculate your expected pace and adjust for the terrain and elevation changes.
Start Early: Beginning your run at dawn grants you the advantage of cooler temperatures and maximizes your daylight. If you're training for longer events, consider night runs to acclimatize to running in darkness.
Breaks and Enjoyment: Remember to factor in time for breaks to enjoy the views and take photos. While it's great to have a target time, allowing yourself to enjoy the scenery is part of the experience in such a breathtaking setting.
Pacing Strategy: Plan your pacing according to the terrain. Some sections may require more energy than others, so approach them conservatively. Use your experience in training to gauge your effort over longer distances.

Jack Oliver running into Ogwen with Tryfan in the background

A Run to Remember

With many highlights along the way, this incredible Ultra Run will give you a day out that you won't forget for some time. I certainly felt this way after myself and Jack pushed hard for the day and even came away with a new fastest known time (FKT)

Carneddau Ponies in the early morning light

Taking on the Snowdonia Skyline: An Unforgettable Day in the Hills

This run had been on my list for quite some time, but the opportunity to give it a go just never seemed to line up—until now. My friend Jack Oliver and I originally had plans to go climbing in Scotland for four days, but the unpredictable summer weather had other ideas. Instead of cancelling the trip entirely, we decided to challenge ourselves on the one sunny day sandwiched between bouts of wet weather by attempting the Snowdonia Skyline.

We arrived the night before and were treated to a spectacular sunset over the bay at Conwy, which only fueled our excitement for what lay ahead. The 5:00 am alarm came quickly, and after a quick breakfast, we found ourselves standing at the National Park boundary at the foot of Conwy Mountain, ready to tackle our first summit of the day. By 5:30 am, we were off at a steady pace, rewarded right away with stunning views of the sunrise to the east.

The first four hours took us across the Carneddau range, a stretch of rolling grassy ridges that offered some of the most runnable terrain on the entire route. We relished the opportunity to move quickly, taking in the sight of clouds rolling over the ridges and spotting the occasional Carneddau pony. The early morning coolness was a blessing, but as the day progressed, the heat started to kick in.

Our next major challenge was climbing out of Ogwen up Tryfan’s north ridge. The warm sunshine made the 600-meter ascent tough, but the exhilarating scrambling on this mountain more than made up for it. Reaching the summit of Tryfan was a highlight, and the rocky descent down the south ridge was followed by more thrilling scrambling up Bristly Ridge. This led us to the rugged plateaus of Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr, before we descended towards the bustling Pen Y Pass, where families and hikers were gearing up for their own Snowdon adventures.

By midday, the heat had become a real challenge, especially as we pushed uphill towards Crib Goch. This outrageous ridgeline offered spectacular views across Snowdonia National Park as we worked our way toward Crib-y-Ddysgl. After reaching the busy summit of Snowdon, we were happy to leave the crowds behind and run along the long ridgeline of Llechog toward Rhyd-Ddu, grateful for the chance to refill our water bottles from the streams on the way down.

Jack Oliver Heading across the Nantle Ridge

The final stretch of the run took us over the Nantlle Ridge toward Nebo. It was just after 2:00 pm when we left Rhyd-Ddu and began the steep climb up Y Garn. Determined to push our pace, we dug deep to find every bit of energy we had left, hoping to finish in under 12 hours. We had both forgotten just how long the Nantlle Ridge was, but with seven tops and mostly runnable terrain, we managed to cover the ground efficiently. The views from the Nantlle Ridge were breathtaking, reminding us of the incredible distance we had covered and just how stunning this National Park truly is.

As we descended from the Ridge, we pushed as hard as we could, finally reaching the National Park boundary just outside Nebo with a new record time of 11 hours and 28 minutes, smashing the previous record of 15 hours and 43 minutes set by Dean Russell and Bertie Goffe. The route is fantastic, and we'd highly recommend it to any ultra-runner looking for a brilliant day in the hills. With 60 kilometres and 4,700 meters of ascent, it’s more than half of any of the UK’s 'Big Three' rounds. Whether you're training for the Bob Graham Round, Paddy Buckley Round, or Ramsay’s Round, or just looking to enjoy a spectacular day in Snowdonia, this run is the perfect challenge.

Jack Oliver running over the Nantle Ridge

If you're aiming to boost your performance and need expert advice, knowledge, and experience in ultra-running, I'd be thrilled to help you unlock your full potential. With a track record of amazing results from athletes I've worked with, I'm excited to support you on your journey to success. Contact me at info@jamesgibsoncoaching.co.uk on www.jamesgibsoncoaching.co.uk and we can have a chat about helping you improve your performance.

James Gibson and Jack Oliver at the Snowdonia National Park boundary