Is sixty-nine too old to go up Snowdon?

Question

I'm a sixty-nine year old man in reasonable physical condition. In the past I have experienced some shortness of breath while walking, but I've been doing some swimming and heavy gardening recently which I believe has improved my level of fitness somewhat. I don't have any preexisting medical conditions.
My grandchildren are now asking if I'd like to go up Snowdon with them. I'm aware that there are several different paths up the mountain to choose from, but do I have any chance of success? What can I do to keep energy levels up and avoid any risk of injury?
(And no, I do not want to take the railway.)
Thank you.

Answer 1

Allow about nine hours to go up Snowdon and back down the easiest (least steep) route. That is the way that most families will go. It is hard work but there are plenty of places you can stop and let others pass. Make sure you have proper walking boots, socks, wet weather gear (what ever the weather is like when you set off!!) drinks and food. And allow yourselves plenty of time of course so you get back before it goes dark.

If you still think it is something that you would like to do I would go and have a check up with your GP and ask his advice.

Lots of older people climb Snowdon every year, with lots of disabilities too - but be aware that many unprepared climbers are also airlifted every year too - make sure you aren't one of them!! Good luck!

Answer 2

The climb should not be a problem if you are reasonably fit, but your shortness of breath is a concern.

Your symptom of shortness of breath is one associated with emphysema and lung cancer, although other problems can cause the same symptom. The real concern is the effect on your heart and your system if you cannot get all the oxygen needed. You will have the fuel (calories) but you also need the oxygen to burn it. I suggest, before you try what could be quite a strenuous walk, to have a chest X ray to see what condition your lungs are in, so you have a base line to work from. If they are clear there will no reason why you should not do it. If not, then action can be taken to remedy the situation.

But to make sure you are fit to do it, if you live in the UK I suggest you contact your Practise Nurse at your local surgery. She may give you a lung efficiency test and discuss how it can be improved, and she can refer you to your doctor if necessary. Whatever happens, don't risk it without medical approval.

If you live in the US ask the equivalent person at your local Medical Center.

Answer 3

my advice is do the llanberis path first 3 quarters is relatively a moderate climb, plus half way up there is a cafe have a cuppa and give yaself a good half hour rest. then your prepared for the final ascent which is quite steep towards the end. Also just before the steep bit there is the train station so if it gets too much or u have any problems u can go back down by train :)) good luck

Answer 4

Go for it, but pace yourself - I know kids can run off in all directions, but explain to them that you aren't as young as them, so can't keep up!



Then pace yourself gradually, wear appropriate clothing (walking boots etc), and eat plenty of foods high in carbohydrates for energy - such as bread, pasta, rice, cereal bars etc (avoid the sugar)



And if you do become too tired, don't be too proud to take the train - its better to take the train and get down safely, than to attempt to walk down, and then end up being airlifted to hospital (although Prince William could well be the pilot of said helicopter - always an experience for the kids!)



And lastly, enjoy yourself - my grandad has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Although I'm so upset by this, myself and my siblings/cousins have such great memories with him, that we will always be able to look back on! So give your grand kids some memories of your time together - they will be invaluable to them when there older like yourself! (no offence intended)



Have fun :-)

Answer 5

When you see 80 year olds jumping from aircraft I would say go for it. If it becomes too strenuous STOP

Answer 6

take the train up to the summit, meet up,and walk down with them...or take the train to Hebron which will take a couple of miles off your hike up...if you`re determined not to take the train stick to the tourist track it`s easiest.

Answer 7

69.

Lol

Answer 8

DON'T DO IT YOU'LL DIE