May 5, 2018 - Rod, Collin, Grace, and Simon scale the Mighty Snowdon

The mountain Snowdon dominates the hills of Snowdonia and is the highest peak in Wales. Although covered by much greenery, it frequently has snow on the top. It soars 1085m (3560 ft) into the sky, and although Harlech is a good hour and a half drive, Snowdon is visible from where we stayed. We also found out later, that Snowdon is mentioned as a triangulation point for the Convergence in Thor: The Dark World... so we unknowingly were at a Marvel location. Not bad!

We did a bit of research about climbing the beast before we left and decided we didn't have enough time to do the 8 mile hike, since we were leaving the next day. So we found a train that takes us all the way up to the summit. A bit of a lazy way out, but hey, we had to get up there. We piled into this single train car and was taken on the hour trip pushed by a diesel locomotive.

It was the first nice day we'd had in a while, and was also a Welsh holiday, so the mountain was crawling with people, like ants on an anthill. The crowds ranged from professional hikers with their packs and walking sticks, to very heavy folks rocking jean shorts and tank-tops. The line of hikers wound around the slopes like glaze on a cinnamon roll, all on a pilgrimage to get to the top. As we rode this slow train higher up, we inevitably were near sections of the trails and the hikers that were on them. People kept waving at us, and we weren't sure if they were jealous, happy to see us, or just plain mocking us. I was bummed we weren't able to climb it ourselves, seeing the top is so much sweeter when you have to work for it. If I return, I'm lacing up my hiking boots and doing it on foot.

After some ear popping, we reached the summit. The peak was covered in people, sitting down and enjoying some trail mix, taking in the breath-taking views. Plenty of pictures were taken, and I heard exclamations of amazement, which can be understood in any language. After spending a good half hour at the top, we were surprised to find a guy getting down on one knee and popping the question! She said yes of course. We headed back to the train and the views were just as great as they were on the way up.

For lunch, we drove into town and ate at Big Pete's, and the name suggests how large the portions are! It was delicious food and we were stuffed! We drove home in the looming peak's shadow, proud that we had conquered another mountain! ~ Collin

At the base of the mountain, where we could get a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

A midday cloud rolling over the valley

Finally.. the summit!

Lots of accomplished hikers!

Higher than the clouds!

Mountain connoisseurs! 

Love this one

One misstep and it was a long way down!

Our descent was gorgeous as well!

Some hikers making their way up!

Here's Big Pete's menu!