David Pickering - 477593

Snowdon Summit (1085m) and Yr Aran (747m): Watkins Path from Nant Gwynan. The intent of this journey was primarily area familiarization. Having ascended Snowden several times from the north and west, including the horseshoe via Crib Goch and Y Lliwedd, the Pyg Track, and Llamberis Path, it was time to explore the southern approaches. Started from the parking lot at Pont Bethania. I noted "Leader" on this record because I met two people at Moel Siabod cafe in the morning. They were from Canada and asked me about walking up Snowden. They did not have a specific plan. I went over my plan for ascending via Watkins Path. They said they just needed a staring point, but they needed to get to Pen Y Pass to stay the night, so I agreed to get them to my start point at Pont Bethania. I would escort them up to the summit and show them the start of the Pyg Track for their descent. I then descended south via Bwich Main and Clogwyn Du and Allt Maenderyn to reascend to the summit of Yr Aran. Then descending back down to Watkins Path to finish at Pont Brethania. I tracked the journey with my GPS, which for some reason decided to turn itself off near the end of the journey after I descended Aran. It was off in my pack until I took a break near the end as I reached Watkins Path again. That is the reason for the straight line from the base of Aran and the approach to Watkins. I think that slightly affected the total time and distance statistics. Camped overnight at Dolgam at Capel Curig.

Total Time: 7 hours 2 minutes; Total Distance: 15.22 km; Total Ascent: 1,528m

Weather: Reviewed weather forecasts from Met Office 'Specialist Forecast' for Snowdon Summit, and tracked MWIS forecast for Snowdonia and the regular 'Fleeting View' reports. Weather was mostly sunny with good visibility all day. High Pressure dominated over the UK so mostly sunny with a few clouds building in late. No rain, light winds Pretty much to forecast.

Navigation Planning: Used the OS Maps App on my computer to assess and plan the route. Printed and laminated the route map at A4 size for the journey. Carried an OS Explorer OL17 1:25000 map and a Harvey XT40,1:40000 map as backup.

Safety and Risk: I carried my First Aid Kit, Blizzard Bag blanket, and a 4 person emergency shelter, as well as as my Garmin InReach Mini, with a 'Professional' level subscription. I also left a copy of the route plan at home with my wife. The ground under foot was dry, and the weather fair. Risk was assessed as Low, with preparations for any eventuality.