Snowdon Weekender 18th - 19th Feb.

Snowdon via Watkin Path. 8 - miles. Ninja Walk

We left the car park in Bethania and followed the signed path heading north through the woods. This is the start of the Watkin Path. The path opens out to reward us with the view of the Afon Cwm Llan, dramatic after, and during heavy rain.

The slab bridge over the Cwm Llan.

One can`t resist a pic while stood on the slab bridge, although I tactically positioned myself for a quick exit should the bridge exceed its safe working load.

A look back down towards Bethania. The Afon Cwm Llan in full flow.

The path eventually leads to Bwlch Ciliau, the rain had almost stopped and the skies started to clear. Moel Siabod, tomorrows walk can be seen in the background.

The rocky face of the formidable Crib Goch.

Bwlch Saethau provides a welcome stop before the final push to the top of the Watkin Path.

Another look across to Crib Goch and Carnedd Ugain with the Glaslyn below.

Looking SSW from Bwlch Sethau the return path along the South Ridge descends to Yr Aran.

As the mist and rain started to clear the views opened up. Y Lliwedd and the ascent of the Watkin Path can now be seen.

A close up pic of the impressive Y Lliwedd.

Nearing the top of the Watkin Path provides a better view of the South Ridge down to Bwlch Cwm Llan. Moel Hebog in the background, top right of picture.

The summit of Snowdon was like "Ice Station Zebra". A couple of hundred metres of height gain provides a drastic change of conditions. Looking north west along Clogwyn Du`r Arddu which is the line of the Snowdon Ranger Path.

The descent back to Finger Rock from the summit. The south ridge and the line of the Ryhd Ddu path, which bears right, comes into view. Moel Hebog, Moel yr Ogof and Moel Lefn in the background. 

A clear view toward Llyn Cwellyn on the left with Mynydd Mawr behind.

A retrospective view of the final ascent of the Watkin Path. A combination of snow, ice and loose scree make it a bit of a challenge.

The return from Bwlch Cwm Llan looking back up the ridge to the summit.

The final gentle walk back to the car park along the Afon Cwm Llan. Cold and wet, but feeling on top of the world.

Moel Siabod from Capel Curig

Derwent Edge from Fairholmes - 12 Feb - 10 miles. Crinja Walk.

This walk starts from Fairholmes car park at the north end of Ladybower Reservoir. Ladybower and the surrounding reservoirs were the location for the training flights for the Dambuster raids in WW2.

The west tower in the foreground and east tower in the background of the Upper Derwent Reservoir. The route along Derwent Edge can be seen.

Walking north along the Upper Derwent Reservoir takes you to Abbey Brook, turning right along Sheepfold Clough. This view from Hillend provides superb views to Edale Valley and the Kinder Plateau.

Lost Lad provides an ideal stop for a break and to search for lost goretex gloves, thanks to Marty F. This added another mile or so to the walk.

The Cakes of Bread.

Derwent Edge offers good views along the whole stretch of Ladybower and Derwent Reservoirs.

Dovestone Tor.

Salt Cellar Boulders.

Crook Hill and Win Hill from the descent down to the reservoir.

The view north toward Hagg Side from High House Farm.

The view south from the same location.

An interesting spot on the reservoir. Derwent village was drowned to make the reservoir. At low water level the top of the village church spire can be seen above the water line.

The East Tower

The West Tower and dam wall.

One hungry duck trying to eat ones gaiters.