26.3.2022 - Snaefell 621m, Isle of Man, United Kingdom (World Country High Point).
Information
Snaefell is the highest mountain and the only summit higher than 2,000 feet (610 m) on the Isle of Man, at 2,037 feet (620.9 m) above sea level. The summit is crowned by a railway station, cafe and several communications masts.
Summary
After a two year absence due to covid and the obvious lack of travel it’s good to good to get out to the Isle of Man to do Snaefell. At 621m it’s not only an isolated 600m peak but listed as a world country high point on Peakbagger. This makes it no 25/256 for me counting Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Slieve Donard which Peakbagger does not count. Not the hardest of hikes and a bit novel having a coffee shop at the top and to see tourists getting off the electric tram. Hey ho but a great hike on a stunning day with beautiful views and other interesting things to see.
Parking: Plenty of parking at the start point and nearby tram station.
Route: Easy walk up from Laxey on lanes and tracks heading NW past the famed Laxey ‘Wheel’. Easy to follow GPX route that leads to the old mines below Snaefell which are marked on the OS maps. From here head straight steeply up hill towards the right tower mast. The right tower takes you to the trig point and the left tower to the cafe.
It’s a 400m uphill slog with the A18 crossing your path half way. There is no footpath but it is easy enough underfoot. Standard trig pointed summit with great views of the island.
Route Statistics: 14km, 676m of ascent in a carb fuelled 5hrs 45min with two Mochas, a Meringue slice and a cream and jam scone!
Ascent Entry on Peakbagger: Snaefell Ascent Entry on Outdooractive
GPX files: For gpx files click on the below.
Interactive map from Peakbagger page.
Information Sheets
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