**Hiker Expresses Dismay Over Train Passengers at Yr Wyddfa Summit, Sparks Online Debate**
A walker who made the strenuous ascent to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) has become an unexpected internet sensation after sharing her astonishment at discovering she could have simply taken the train instead. The woman in question, known as Hettie and recognised on TikTok as ‘Hettie’s Holidays’, recounted her story in a viral video, which has generated both laughs and controversy, garnering more than 100,000 likes on the social media platform.
In her now widely-shared clip, Hettie described the sense of disbelief and slight indignation she felt upon reaching the summit, only to be greeted by others who had ridden comfortably up the mountain. “Do you know what’s a p*** take when you get to the top of Snowdon? People who have got the train!” she exclaimed with tongue-in-cheek frustration, questioning what motivation anyone might have to forgo the hike in favour of the train journey. “Firstly, why the hell would you want to get the train to the top of Snowdon?”
For many outdoor enthusiasts, the appeal of Yr Wyddfa, the highest peak in Wales, lies specifically in the challenge of the ascent, with routes varying in difficulty and offering sweeping views of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Nevertheless, the Snowdon Mountain Railway has long provided access to the summit for those unable — or simply unwilling — to make the physical climb. For Hettie, however, the presence of so many rail passengers seemed to undermine the spirit of the mountaintop experience.
Adding to her bemusement, Hettie described scenes of summit-goers settling down for gourmet lunches and family gatherings, sometimes dressed in casual attire more suited for city cafes than rugged Welsh peaks. According to Hettie, the contrast between weary hikers and cheerful diners was stark. “People are sat up here having a gourmet lunch dressed in Converse, dresses, blouses – sat having like a birthday family lunch, and people have hiked and walked. We’re aching, we’re freezing and people are just not even offering seats,” she recounted.
Despite clarifying that she did not expect anyone to vacate their seats for hikers, she queried the rationale behind making the journey to dine at the summit’s small restaurant, only to be surrounded by those who had braved the elements on foot. The incongruity was only heightened for her by the discovery of people hosting what appeared to be baby showers, complete with newborns in tow, at one of Wales’s most renowned natural landmarks.
Hettie concluded her video, sharing a look of resignation with her companion and stating, “Nah, that’s not good with us.” While her playful condemnation of the situation struck a chord with many, it equally sparked a spirited discussion online about the essence of enjoying natural wonders and the variety of ways people choose to experience them.
Reactions in the video’s comments section revealed a divided audience. Some cheered Hettie’s viewpoint, empathising with the physical effort involved in reaching the top by foot. One commenter drew an analogy: “This reminds me of the time I scaled the Eiffel Tower, and everyone in the lift didn’t let me sit down when I got to the top.” Another, recalling their own strenuous ascent of The Shard in London, lamented others who simply used the lift and relaxed with drinks overlooking the city.
Others, however, pointed out that climbing Yr Wyddfa is a matter of personal choice, with the mountain’s accessibility ensuring it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. “The thing about climbing Snowdon is that it’s completely optional. Hope this helps,” one viewer remarked pointedly. Another downplayed the challenge, adding, “You’re making it sound like you’ve done a difficult climb. I’ve seen eight-year-olds go up Snowdon.”
This episode has reignited a longstanding debate over accessibility and authenticity in outdoor pursuits. While some argue that the journey is as important as the destination, others advocate for inclusivity, noting that not everyone is able — physically or otherwise — to make the trek.
Regardless of where one stands on the issue, it is clear Hettie’s tale has struck a chord with thousands, sparking reflection on what it truly means to experience the natural beauty of Wales’s legendary highest summit — whether by hard-fought steps or by rail.