Mount Snowdon

Hello I recently completed a solo 35 mile hike/run across the very boggy hills of Worcestershire (5,000m ascent). It was a challenge that I set myself in memory of my niece and to raise money for Acorns Children's hospice. I completed the challenge in 9hrs 50 mins. I has set out to walk the course but ended up running probably about 10 miles of it (in my boots and trousers) to make up for some lost time. I'm generally fit and did no specific training for the event. Next year, I plan on raising more money but fancy a different solo challenge (I'm not keen on races or organised charity events) and am considering running up and down Snowdon. As I think it will be tough, will encourage people to dig deep and will be stunning in terms of scenery. I fully expect some interesting and possibly unpleasant weather and underfoot conditions. My main reason for asking for advice is, given the right training, would it be possible for me to turn myself from a generally fit all rounder into someone capable of running Snowdon in a respectible time. I've got about a year before my next annual event, so I have plenty of time. Any advice on routes and footwear is also appreciated. I have seen suggestions online that Llanberis and Beddegelert are easier climbs? Many thanks in advance.

If you've already done a 35 mile hike/run I don't think Snowdon will be any challenge for you at all. You could probably run up and down without any problems in your current state of fitness. Llanberis is the classic route for running, see http://www.snowdonrace.co.uk/ Footwear - anything really if you're taking that route.

BTW do you know of the 15 peaks challenge?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welsh_3000s

All the the mountains in Wales over 3000 feet in 24 hours. Should be within your fitness level and will provide you with a decent challenge.

Thanks very much. I'll have a look at both the links that you've sent. I really appreciate your comments.

Agree that Llanberis route would have the best surface for running - it is quite a straightforward up and down. Given your recent chalenge you should have no problems at all. Having said that, I managed to trip over when jogging down from the top in boots/ backpack, and managed to cut my head.

Some of the other routes can be a lot more challenging and some involve scrambling. If you don't mind heights then the Snowdon Horseshoe is a great route but will have limited running potential.

If you do run the Llanberis route its about 10 miles there and back, so not a particularly long run or walk/run. Its not that interesting as well, unless you enjoy watching the couch potatoes go up in the train. But for a pure run up and down its the best route.

First time I walked it was age 8. I was so proud until the day after when it was reported that someone had gone up and down on a pogo stick.

Pogo stick it is then

Thanks for the response.