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    Best hiking and walking trails in Snowdonia National Park

    Walking In Snowdonia

    Region in Wales, United Kingdom

    Snowdonia Walks

    Snowdonia walks are a timeless adventure, and the mere mention of the name Snowdonia is enough to excite most hikers. This majestic region is Wales’ crowning glory, an immense landscape filled with deep valleys and crevasses, angular ridges and wild moorland. Snowdonia is justifiably popular, drawing thousands of hikers in the peak season, but there are plenty of lesser-known routes where visitors can immerse themselves in Wales’ wild beauty.

    Snowdonia is an ancient landscape, with a strong sense of Welsh culture and a history that goes back thousands of years. These wild mountains once provided shelter to some of Wales’ most famous leaders, including the medieval prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. The region was later shaped by human activity, including farming and mining, which left an indelible mark on the landscape and part of this cultural heritage can be seen in the picturesque Welsh-speaking villages of North Wales. However, it’s the park’s rugged terrain and magnificent trails that attract most modern day visitors, with many looking to complete a wide variety of Snowdonia walks.

    Snowdonia is a land of tall peaks and deep valleys, with rugged, rocky hillsides and picturesque lakes. You’ll move from soaring mountains to long sandy beaches in the same day, meaning that a walking trip here is a really varied adventure. Snowdonia walks will also expose you to some rare and wonderful wildlife species that call the region home, including birds of prey such as the osprey, merlin and peregrine falcon, and wild goats, otters, deer and pine martens. In particular, keep your eyes open for the exquisite Snowdon lily, which grows in the crags of Cwm Idwal.

    This natural paradise is just waiting to be discovered – so what’s holding you back? To trigger your wanderlust, here’s our pick of all the best hikes in Snowdonia.

    Top 10 Walks In Snowdonia

    As can be seen in this list of the top 10 walks in Snowdonia, the park really has something for everyone, from pleasant easy walks through the valleys to thrilling ascents of soaring peaks and craggy ridges. Snowdon has long been a training ground for avid mountaineers, and many climbers visit this region in preparation for an attempt on Everest. As a result, experienced walkers will find plenty to challenge them in North Wales, including the ascent of Snowdon itself, via one of the many routes up the mountain.

    However, you don’t have to be a fitness fanatic or an experienced hiker to enjoy walking in Snowdonia. This region is perfect for families, with many short, easy Snowdonia walks that are sure to give younger visitors the hiking bug. You’ll find hwalks to suit all tastes, experience and fitness levels, from pleasant low-key strolls through the valleys, or fun trails that snake through lush woodland. Whatever you’re looking for, Snowdonia walks have it all!

    • Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd Walk: This spectacular walk showcases the majesty of Snowdonia without requiring too much exertion. The trail follows the River Gamlan, ascending through green woodland and passing by the gushing waterfalls of Rhaeadr Ddu (Welsh for ‘Black Falls”). This walk is best appreciated after heavy rain when the river and falls are at full flow, but make sure to bring sturdy footwear as the path can be slippery!
    • Llyn Ogwen Walk: This wonderful hike isn’t too strenuous, but it’s certainly a lot of fun, making it one of the best easy walks in Snowdonia. The trickiest part of the route is finding the path at the beginning, as you’ll need to scramble over a few boulders as you proceed towards the lake. The path circles Llyn Ogwen, offering fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and making this a thoroughly enjoyable easy hike in Snowdonia.
    • Cwm Idwal Walk: This short hike is a delight, and one of our favorite family walks in Snowdonia! There’s a short, steep climb at the beginning, but the rest of the trail is relatively easy and suitable for young children, leading to a spectacular hidden lake and a series of lovely waterfalls. Kids will love exploring this wild place, and there is plenty to keep older walkers happy too!
    • Swallow Falls Walk: The route to Swallow Falls is a wonderful family hike in Snowdonia, passing alongside the Llugwy River all the way to the sensational Swallow Falls. Take your time here and appreciate the gushing water before continuing until you reach the Ty Hyll Tearoom at the Ugly House, where you can enjoy some well-earned refreshments and explore the lovely gardens and bee exhibition. We think this is one of the best family walks in Snowdonia.
    • Snowdon Via The Watkin Path Walk: You can’t visit Snowdonia without a walk up the eponymous mountain itself, a highlight of any walking trip to Wales. However, Snowdon is one of the most-visited mountains in the UK, and you’re likely to be sharing your path with many other walkers. That’s why we prefer the ascent via the Watkin Path, which offers incredibly scenic views and is much quieter than some of the other routes. It’s a challenging hike, but without doubt, one of the best day walks in Snowdonia.
    • Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track Walk: This route up Snowdon is not the easiest path, but it offers the quickest and shortest way to access the summit. The ascent begins gently, but the path soon becomes more rugged, requiring a little scrambling in places. However, the scenery along the route just keeps getting better and better, descending past old mines on the Miner’s Track. This is a wonderful way to spend a day in Snowdonia’s rugged scenery.
    • Snowdon Horseshoe Walk: Looking for one of the best challenging walks in Snowdonia? The Snowdon Horseshoe walk is a strenuous hike, and certainly not for the faint of heart, but it will lead you along one of the most rewarding trails in Snowdonia. The phenomenal ridgeline of Crib Goch offers incredible views, taking you all the way to the summit of Snowdon, descending via the Watkin Path. This walk is an epic day out in some of Wales’ finest landscapes.
    • Moel Siabod Walk: This classic Welsh mountain hike is one of the best challenging walks in Snowdonia, and gives some of the best views over Snowdon that you’ll find in the region. The final ascent is very steep and strenuous, but the rest of the walk is fairly manageable, with plenty of beautiful sights to distract you! Come on a clear day for magnificent views of Snowdon, Glyderrau and Carneddau, and a wonderful day out in some of Wales’ best scenery.
    • Dolmelynllyn Estate Walk: This tremendously varied walk has a little bit of everything to offer, from crumbled ruins and an old gold mine, to gushing waterfalls and beautiful scenery! It’s a great option for a family walk, and a good way to learn a little about Welsh history. You’ll wander through woodland and follow the path of the river before emerging out onto open moorland with expansive views. This is a delightful hike and one of the best walks in Snowdonia.
    • Barmouth Panorama Walk: Wales may be famous for its mountains, but it’s also well known for its lovely sea views. This route combines them both, climbing high above Barmouth to enjoy a wonderful panorama across the Afon Mawddach Estuary, and along the Welsh coast to Cardigan Bay. Once you’ve made the final descent, it’s time to relax on the vast white sands of Barmouth beach.

    When Is The Best Time To Go Walking In Snowdonia

    The best time to go walking in Snowdonia is from late spring to autumn. Although the spring weather can often be wet and windy, this is the time when the woodlands and hillsides of Snowdonia are covered in flowers. The daffodil, the national flower of Wales, can be seen throughout the region, adding a lovely dash of bright yellow to the landscape. In summer, the Welsh countryside is at its finest, with lush green fields, and the chance of some sunshine (although you should always be prepared for a rain shower!). However, Snowdonia walks can be extremely busy during the summer holidays, so you’ll need to book accommodation well in advance and be prepared to see lots of other people on the trail. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit, when the leaves turn and the trees explode in a riot of color. In winter, the higher elevation trails are accessible only to the most experienced and well-equipped mountaineers. Despite this, many trails stay open throughout the winter months, meaning that you’ll always find a place for a good walk, whatever time of year you choose to visit.

    Other Outdoor Activities In Snowdonia

    Snowdonia is Wales’ outdoor playground, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Choose from hiking, backpacking, cycling, fishing, horse riding, canoeing or kayaking, and immerse yourself in the spectacular landscapes of the Welsh mountains and valleys. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, why not try your hand at rock climbing, canyoning or coasteering!

    How To Plan A Trip To Snowdonia

    If Wales is on your walking bucket list, don’t miss out on our guide to planning a trip to Snowdonia. We’ve put together a useful list of information, including ideas on where to go and where to stay and eat, coupled with lists of all our favorite Snowdonia walks. Whether you’re going to travel in summer or winter, we’ve got everything you’ll need to plan a trip to Snowdonia.

    Frequently-Asked-Questions About Snowdonia

    Is it difficult to climb Snowdon?
    Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales, standing at an elevation of 1085m. Tackling this impressive mountain is no easy feat, but it’s within the scope of most fit hikers. You’ll need to be relatively fit and to be prepared for rugged, rocky terrain. However, no specialist equipment is required and you don’t need to have mountaineering and climbing experience.

    Do you have to pay to climb Snowdon?
    Snowdonia National Park is completely free to access, meaning that you don’t need to pay to climb Snowdon or to any of the other fantastic hikes in this region.

    Can you drive to the top of Snowdon?
    It’s not possible to drive anywhere near the summit of Snowdon. However, if you’re not sure you’re able to hike all the way to the top, it’s possible to take the train. The Snowdon Mountain Railway has been in operation since 1896, departing from Llanberis station, and this is an excellent option for walkers with very young families and those who aren’t able to make the summit on foot. The views are remarkable, all the way to the top.

    Is wild camping in Snowdonia legal?
    Most of the land in Snowdonia National Park is privately owned, and it’s not legal to camp without the permission of the landowner. However, it’s usually possible to camp on the higher fells provided you pitch your tent away from houses and farms, and follow the Wild Camping Code.

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    Best Hikes in Snowdonia

    Showing 1 to 20 of 85
      Open details for Snowdon Horseshoe

      Snowdon Horseshoe

      Hard
      12.2 km
      1,072 m
      5-7h

      This ridge hike is not for inexperienced hill walkers or those afraid of heights. Crib Goch is a phenomenal ridgeline - one of the best in Wales - but, it should not be underestimated. Be prepared, and avoid it in high winds and wintery conditions unless well equipped. Having said that, it is exceptional!

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Llyn Ogwen

      Llyn Ogwen

      Easy
      4.9 km
      95 m
      1-1.5h

      This walk has stunning, mountainous views; the iconic summits of Tryfan and Glyderau will tower above you as you hike. Some scrambling is involved to begin with but, overall, it’s a relatively easy, and most definitely enjoyable, hike.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Crib Goch Hike

      Crib Goch Hike

      Hard
      9.8 km
      970 m
      4.5-6h

      The Crib Goch hike in Snowdonia National Park is a thrilling climb across jagged spires and razor-thin ridges to the peak of Snowden. This climb may not be for the faint of heart, but it’s a rewarding challenge for those looking to sharpen their scrambling skills and enjoy expansive views over the green-laden mountains below. This route can also be done as a loop to enjoy the serene lakeshores below the adrenaline-pumping summit.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Coed y Brenin Walk

      Coed y Brenin Walk

      Easy
      8.4 km
      295 m
      2.5-3h

      The Coed y Brenin circular walk is a loop trail in Snowdonia National Park, passing through ancient green forest along the Mawddach River. This relatively flat trail reveals charming waterfalls and lush greenery, providing a peaceful and low-effort escape into nature. The Coed y Brenin trail is well-maintained, making it an easy pick for those with young children.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Snowdon via the Watkin Path

      Snowdon via the Watkin Path

      Hard
      14.2 km
      1,013 m
      5.5-7.5h

      Avoid the crowds and head for this less used hike to the summit of Snowdon. In good weather the views from the Bwlch Ciliau down across the horseshoe are phenomenal. Often quoted as the most scenic route up Snowdon, the Watkin Path will leave you feeling smug when you meet the masses at the summit.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.9
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Cwm Idwal Walk

      Cwm Idwal Walk

      Easy
      4.3 km
      95 m
      1-1.5h

      Cwm Idwal is a short and super family-friendly walk that will challenge and delight everyone! A short climb unveils a spectacular hidden lake and multiple waterfalls. This feels like a wild and remote adventure despite the quick walk in. This is an excellent option for a mixed ability group. No one will be disappointed.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Llyn Gwynant Walk

      Llyn Gwynant Walk

      Easy
      10.3 km
      401 m
      3-4h

      The Llyn Gwynant Walk in Snowdonia National Forest is a rarely-travelled trail to a serene lake deep in the hills of the park. As you enjoy how the lake reflects the red and green hills surrounding it, you’re unlikely to encounter more company than local wildlife. This trail presents no technical challenges or significant elevation gain, making it a perfect outing in the stellar nature of Snowdonia for hikers and walkers of any level.

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      Open details for Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track

      Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track

      Moderate
      12.1 km
      841 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Pyg Track is the shortest walk up Snowdon; however, it’s not the easiest one. Although busy, the trail will give you some exceptional views of the mountain and the pass below the tremendous Crib Goch Ridge. The Miner’s track is a taxing initial descent, but it provides a long, interesting, and gentle return to the start point.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.4
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Moel Siabod – A Stunning Walk in Snowdonia National Park

      Moel Siabod – A Stunning Walk in Snowdonia National Park

      Moderate
      11.1 km
      801 m
      4-6h

      Moel Siabod is a superb Welsh mountain hike with excellent views across Snowdonia, and a wonderful climb to the summit. This walk is a definite must for lovers of the great outdoors. The trail starts out as a relatively easy few miles before reaching a short, sharp, final ascent to the summit.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd

      Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd

      Very Easy
      2.1 km
      116 m
      0.5-1h

      This is a spectacular riverside walk in Snowdonia that follows the River Gamlan from Ganllwyd up to the wild Rhaeadr Ddu falls. The route will wind its way through the peaceful woodland before bringing you back to your starting point in the village.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Llanberis Path to Snowdon

      Llanberis Path to Snowdon

      Moderate
      14.6 km
      983 m
      5.5-7.5h

      There are plenty of ways to climb Snowdon, but the Llanberis Path up Wales’ highest peak could be the perfect option for you! This trail is scenic, but you can breathe easy knowing no demanding technical sections await. As you power your way up, you’ll be treated to expansive views over the surrounding deep blue lakes, imposing peaks, and lush groves of trees. With several sections guaranteed to get the heart pumping, you’ll feel fantastic as you stand atop this legendary mountain!

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      Open details for Llanbedr Loop Walk

      Llanbedr Loop Walk

      Very Easy
      11.4 km
      274 m
      3-4h

      The Llanbedr loop walk is the perfect way to reconnect with nature without needing to break much of a sweat. This idyllic pathway begins beachside and meanders through the lush rolling fields of Snowdonia National Park, skirting the Morfa Dyffryn National Nature Reserve and the Rhinog National Nature Reserve. Since the path is paved and gains little elevation, it’s perfect for families with strollers and those looking for a less demanding (but still very rewarding) stroll in the outdoors.

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      Open details for Llyn Padarn Walk

      Llyn Padarn Walk

      Easy
      8.2 km
      212 m
      2-3h

      The Llyn Padarn loop walk trails alongside the tree-lined Llyn Padarn, a peaceful lake on the border of Snowdonia National Park. This simple, low-effort walk takes you along a wooded path that passes a lovely waterfall and provides excellent views of Snowdon. With modest elevation gain and unique sights like a castle and an Instagram-famous tree, Llyn Padarn is a treat for walkers of all ages.

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      Open details for Cnicht from Croesor

      Cnicht from Croesor

      Hard
      12.1 km
      649 m
      4-5.5h

      Cnicht is a 689 m peak in the Moelwynion range known as the “Matterhorn of Wales”. The Croesor ascent is an exhilarating way to conquer this impressive mountain, beginning in the quaint village of Croesor and traversing over a wooded path before ending with a Class 1 scramble to the summit. Here, expansive views of Snowdonia National Park await. While it’s a bit of a leg-burner, the hike up Cnicht from Croesor is a rewarding trek perfect for hikers wanting to test out their scrambling skills.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Rhyd Ddu to Snowdon

      Rhyd Ddu to Snowdon

      Hard
      14.8 km
      977 m
      5.5-7.5h

      When choosing a route to ascend Snowdon, the Rhyd Ddu path scores major points for being quieter, less busy, and a heart-pumping trek. Rhyd Ddu offers stunning views over Snowdonia, especially of Moel Cynghorion right beside you, and lightly technical sections to help build your confidence in the mountains. While the end of the path can be a touch harder to follow, you have the option to take a more established route to make your descent a breeze.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Swallow Falls

      Swallow Falls

      Easy
      3.5 km
      127 m
      1-1.5h

      Swallow Falls is a short but sweet hike that walks you along the Llugwy River, to Swallow Falls, and onwards to a spectacular viewpoint. The Ty Hyll Tearoom at the Ugly House, which is actually in no way ugly, is a remarkable find, and it makes this short hike that much more distinct.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.9
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Dolmelynllyn Estate

      Dolmelynllyn Estate

      Easy
      7.1 km
      238 m
      2-2.5h

      This walk has everything from waterfalls, to ruins, to an old gold mine! This is a great hike to go on if you want to learn more about Welsh history. It’s also not terribly taxing: a good adventure for the whole family.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Barmouth Panorama

      Barmouth Panorama

      Moderate
      10.5 km
      443 m
      3-4.5h

      A walk up to the height above Barmouth will give you spectacular panoramic views across the Afon Mawddach estuary, up and down the Welsh coast, and out to Cardigan Bay. With a list of views like that, you can see why it’s a hike worth taking.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.7
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Moel Eilio Circular Walk

      Moel Eilio Circular Walk

      Moderate
      11.9 km
      632 m
      4-5.5h

      The Moel Eilio Circular Walk is an excellent choice for a countryside climb. The route is long enough to provide plenty of exercise but not overly strenuous. With its main summit flanked by the two smaller peaks of Foel Gron and Foel Goch, there are plenty of viewpoints to stop and admire the gorgeous Snowdonia scenery.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Dinas Emrys Trail

      Dinas Emrys Trail

      Easy
      3.2 km
      135 m
      1-1.5h

      The Dinas Emrys Trail is a lovely short walk that combines beautiful scenery with ancient Welsh lore. A dragon is said to sleep under the hill, so tread carefully! With lush green woods, splendid lake views, and even waterfalls, there’s much to enjoy on this route.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews

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