Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Llyn Padarn Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-3h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    8.2 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    212 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead
    Llyn Padarn Walk

    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.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Llyn Padarn Walk on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Llyn Padarn Walk

    The Llyn Padarn path is marked by wooden posts with a white band on them, but at parts, the trail can be somewhat difficult to make out. Download the map to make sure you stay on track and watch for the signs. Note that the path is mostly offroad, so it’s not the best fit for strollers. This guide will follow a clockwise direction as this gets the elevation gain out of the way early in the walk.

    You’ll follow a wooded path that wraps around the lake. At the beginning, you’ll gain some gentle, steady elevation. Once you pass a small group of houses, the pathway curves to the right and starts to lose elevation. Walking through the woods, you’ll soon approach a charming waterfall. This is one of the highlights of the route, so feel free to linger here a moment.

    The views of Snowdon in the distance are great along this next section of the trail, so enjoy them as you approach the old slate works hospital. The next portion of the path descends towards the rail station and slate museum. Keep right over a small bridge and then again over a grassy patch. As you approach the end of the trail, you can veer into Llanberis for a snack or coffee before walking back to your car. The famous Lonely Tree is just before the end of your path, so feel free to head right over the shore to snap a photo!

    Trail Highlights

    Dolbadarn Castle

    This early 13th-century castle built by Llywelyn the Great adorns the northwestern corner of Llyn Padarn. It’s considered by some historians to be the finest surviving example of a Welsh round tower. While it’s certainly not in the same condition it was in back in 1230, it’s a fun historical monument to appreciate as you walk.

    The Lonely Tree

    The famous Lonely Tree draws photographers from all over Wales, and it can be found perched along the west side of the lake. This scraggly little jewel sits just off the shoreline against a backdrop of lake and mountains, including Snowdon. No wonder it’s such a hotspot!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When is Llyn Padarn open?

    The Llyn Padarn trail is open year-round, although winter weather can make the walk less enjoyable.

    Can you swim in Llyn Padarn?

    Yes, you can swim in Llyn Padarn. You can also rent canoes and kayaks from the shop across from the trailhead.

    Where is the Lonely Tree?

    One of Snowdonia’s most photographed spots (and definitely the most photographed tree) is on the western edge of Llyn Padarn.

    Insider Hints for Llyn Padarn Walk

    • The museum is open most days until 5 pm if you’d like to pop in during your walk.
    • If you hike during berry season, you can enjoy some free snacks along the route!
    • The nearby Lake View Restaurant is a nice spot for dinner after hiking.
    • Campers can pitch their tents at Llwyn Celyn Bach just south of the lake.

    Getting to the Llyn Padarn Walk Trailhead

    To get to the trailhead for the Llyn Padarn loop walk, travel north on A4086 from Llanberis until the intersection with Ystad Ddiwydiannol Y Glyn. Turn right here and continue along the lakeshore until the parking area.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      March-November

    • Backcountry Campsites

      Llwyn Celyn Bach

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Llyn Padarn Walk Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Llyn Padarn Walk Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter