This TikTok Famous Hike In Great Britain Is Far More Dangerous Than People Realize

Great Britain is known for its incredible range of tourist attractions, from the Tower of London to the stunning gothic castles found across the country. Recently, the often-overlooked country of Wales has been attracting increasing numbers of tourists with its viral Snowdonia hikes. However, some travelers might be better off skipping this adventurous outdoor spot during their next British getaway for their own safety.

Snowdonia (Eryri in Welsh) is a mountainous region of North Wales stretching to the country's coastline, and it's home to numerous peaks, including Tryfan. TikTokers have helped put the 3,010-foot summit on the map, attracting both experienced and beginner hikers to the area. In one clip, @w33k3ndwanderer shows off a breathtaking sunrise view from the top of the rocky mountain. In another video, @hikingarounduk calls Tryfan the "best mountain in Snowdonia" and the "perfect day out for any hiker," despite its steep climbs and death-defying drops.

In reality, some hikers have struggled on the mountain due to its dangerous conditions. The Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation posted a warning to Facebook in July 2024 after numerous hikers suffered panic attacks on Tryfan. The organization noted the mountain's challenging ridges and edges, treacherous conditions in inclement weather, and difficult-to-navigate paths.

Tryfan isn't the only Snowdonia summit to rack up views on social media. The highest mountain in Wales, Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) has also received the TikTok treatment, despite its potential dangers. Travel creator @cjexplores shared a popular clip of the spectacular destination, showing its stunning views — and a long line of tourists waiting to take photos. TikToker @indi_van_a_jones offered a different image, posting footage of Snowdon in the winter covered in clean white snow.

However, these viral clips don't discuss how treacherous Mount Snowdon can be for hikers. Outdoor clothing brand TOG24 studied the most dangerous mountains and found Snowdon to be the riskiest to climb in the U.K. The report noted that 200 calls are made to rescue teams from Snowdon each year, and the mountain tops the list for the number of casualties.

The mountain is especially dangerous in the winter when the ground can be slippery, and ice makes it difficult to navigate the terrain safely. Unfortunately, warm-weather months aren't without risks either. Accident blackspots can be found along hiking routes, heat can lead to emergency rescues, and some climbers who go off the beaten path can get lost even on clear, sunny days.

Whether you're considering hiking Tryfan, Snowdon, or another Snowdonia mountain, it's important to know what you're getting yourself into before beginning your ascent. Start by researching routes thoroughly before your trip. Take anything on TikTok with a grain of salt and check reputable hiking resources when deciding which hikes are suitable for your level. For instance, the Llanberis Path on Snowdon is often regarded as a beginner-friendly route, while even Tryfan's easiest route requires scrambling and is considered better suited for experienced hikers than novices.

Once you've found your route, choose a day with optimal weather. Remember, icy conditions can be fatal, while heat can cause exhaustion. Aim for fair, dry weather, but be prepared for a range of conditions, as the forecast in Wales can change quickly.

Finally, make sure to pack the best hiking gear for your trip. The Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation noted in its Facebook post that a powerful flashlight is a must if you plan to stick around late enough for the sunset. Drinks, snacks, first-aid supplies, a map, and a compass are also essentials. And don't forget to dress appropriately for the climb. Bring your best hiking boots, clothes that can be layered, and a waterproof jacket.