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Best hiking and walking trails in Snowdonia National Park

Hikes in Wales

Wales Walks

There are some incredible walking trails to be discovered in Wales. While National Parks such as the Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire Coast National Parks get all the attention, there is great walking throughout the country.

A walking holiday in Wales is not just about great walks, it’s about exploring the pretty countryside, savouring stops in charming little villages, a pint in a cozy local pub or a stunning drive along the coast. A little known fact, Wales is home to three National Parks, three National Trails and more designated Areas of Outstanding Beauty (AONBs) that any other area in the U.K. So walkers will be absolutely spoilt for choice while discovering the natural beauty of Wales by foot.

Within Wales, discover Britain's only coastal National Park––Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Frequently named one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, take in the salty sea air, while admiring the crashing waves from high on a cliff. Or, perhaps follow in the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims who walked from Bangor to the treacherous crossing to Bardsey Island, also known as the “Isle of 20,000 saints”. Though, if you’re going to visit one of the more popular spots, you can’t miss the beauty of Snowdonia. This magical region is dotted with incredible, craggy mountain peaks and breathtaking wild moorelands. Considered one of the most underrated hiking destinations in all of Europe, you’re sure to find quiet walking trails bursting with natural beauty.

Have we convinced you? Start planning a walking holiday in Wales today!

10 Greatest Walks in Wales

Discover the beauty of the soft, rolling hills, pristine lakes and charming forests in Wales. Some of the best hikes in this region are family-friendly or perfect for beginners like Cwm Idwal Walk, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t mountains to get your blood pumping like the summit of Snowdon.

  1. Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd: Set out on a riverside walk that strolls alongside the River Gamlan and takes you to the base of stunning Rhaeadr Ddu falls for a pleasant afternoon out.
  2. Llyn Ogwen: Follow the path to take in incredible mountain views of Tryfan and Glyderau. While the walk involves a little bit of scrambling to start, the rest of the hike follows an easy and enjoyable trail.
  3. Cwm Idwal Walk: This family-friendly walk is a breeze, delighting little ones with breathtaking waterfalls and incredible secret lakes that remain relatively untouched.
  4. Swallow Falls: For a quick afternoon stroll, visit the beautiful Swallow Falls. Start off following alongside the Llugwy River and continue until you reach a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the falls.
  5. Snowdon via the Watkin Path: Skip the crowds and discover a lesser-known route to the summit of Snowdon. This incredibly popular mountain is worth summiting for the incredible views at the top, but on our secret path––seek out a secondary lookout point at Bwlch Ciliau.
  6. Dolmelynllyn Estate: Discover epic abandoned gold mines on this walk through an incredible estate. You’ll also pass waterfalls, ruins and plenty of historic Welsh historical sites. This walk is not only beautiful, but plenty educational!
  7. Barmouth Panorama: This hike is great for beginner hikers who want incredible views without the technical challenge. Once at the summit of Barmouth, you can look out over the Afon Mawddach estuary, up and down the Welsh coast, and out to Cardigan Bay.
  8. Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track: This path makes for the shortest walk in Snowdonia, but it’s far from the easiest! Prepare for a very steep ascent and a usually very busy summit, but it’s worth it to take in the incredible mountain views. If you can’t climb, there’s a train that can take you to the tip top!
  9. Moel Siabod - A Stunning Walk in Snowdonia National Park: Adventure out on a naturally stunning trail that provides a little ascent at the end to get the heart pumping! While not overly difficult, the trail passes plenty of picturesque hamlets and old quarries on the way to the top.
  10. Snowdon Horseshoe: One of the trickier trails in Snowdonia, this path is not for the inexperienced. Tackle the famed Crib Goch to take in one of the most beautiful ridgelines in Wales on this walk––though come prepared for crazy high winds at the top.

When is the Best Time to Walk in Wales

We particularly love hiking the shoulder season in Wales, between late summer and early fall for incredible temperatures and smaller crowds. If you plan on tackling any of the surrounding mountain ranges, it’s important to do so when there is no snow, as it can become dangerous to hike in icy conditions.

More than that, the shoulder season offers stunning wildflowers, which bloom late into the fall season. You’ll also be rewarded with quieter hiking trails, as most tourists depart at the end of summer––leaving more to enjoy the cozy lodges and lauded restaurants without having to fight for reservations.

Best Regions to Walk in Wales

Wales offers some amazing hidden gem hiking destinations that continue to fly under the radar and make for incredible wilderness walks. We’ve always had a soft spot for Snowdonia National Park, which features stunning mountain trails and plenty of pristine lakes. Brecon Beacons National Park dazzles with plenty of hidden waterfalls, incredible cave complexes for exploring and even the romantic ruins of a 13th-century castle stand on display. For a unique national park, visit the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for the only coastal park in the U.K. Find dramatic cliff faces, beautiful deserted beaches and outstanding natural wildlife, like puffins.

Other Activities in Wales

Visitors are often surprised and the plentiful outdoor activities on offer in Wales. It’s one of the best kept secrets in our opinion, leaving plenty of natural beauty to be discovered! Caving is a popular activity in Wales, with some incredible underground worlds waiting to be discovered. For a water-based adventure activity, grab a board and hit the waves for surfing, which you can do in the world’s first inland lagoon that makes for perfect beginner waves. There are also plenty of breathtaking mountains to tackle on two-wheels for an unforgettable mountain biking experience.

How to Plan a Trip to Wales

Ready to hit the trails in Wales? We’re here to help make planning your trip easy as 1-2-3! We’ve rounded up all the best places to stay, shop, eat and play in our complete guide to planning a trip to the Snowdonia area in Wales. Now all that’s left is time spent daydreaming and packing your bag!

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Displaying 20 of 135 routes

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10 overall rating
Snowdonia

Snowdon Horseshoe

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!
Hard
12.2 km
1,072 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Pen y Fan and Corn Du Short Walk

The Pen-y-Fan and Corn Du Short Walk is an amazing outdoor adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you uphill to the summit of a mountain with unbeatable views overlooking South Wales. While out walking the trail, you will work your way up the steep and rugged mountainside to reach the summits of Corn Du and Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in South Wales and Southern Britain. Although steep, this path follows one of the more direct routes into the central beacons and will hopefully allow you to avoid some of the crowds.
Moderate
6.3 km
491 m
2.5-3.5h
9.8 overall rating
Snowdonia

Llyn Ogwen

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.
Easy
4.9 km
95 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Ystradfellte Four Waterfalls Walk

The Ystradfellte Four Waterfalls Walk is a fantastic adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you through the forest to visit a series of stunning waterfalls. While out walking the trail, you will enter into the dense cover of the forest and follow along the banks of Afon Mellte, eventually passing by the cascading waters of Sgwd Uchaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, and Sgwd yr Eira. This is a wonderfully scenic woodland adventure if you are looking to relax and view some breathtaking waterways in Wales.
Moderate
7.2 km
275 m
2-3h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk

The Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales that will take you up into the mountains for stunning views over two charming lakes. While out walking the trail, you will make your way to the tranquil shores of Llyn y Fan Fach and the Carmarthen Fans, traversing the summits of Waun Lefrith, Bannau Sir Gaer, Fan Foel, and Fan Brycheiniog before arriving at the shores of Llyn y Fan Fawr. Simply put, this is one of the best walking routes in Brecon Beacons National Park.
Moderate
15.1 km
739 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Snowdonia

Crib Goch Hike

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.
Hard
9.8 km
970 m
4.5-6h
10 overall rating
Snowdonia

Coed y Brenin Walk

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.
Easy
8.4 km
295 m
2.5-3h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk

The Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic outdoor excursion in Wales that will lead you to the highest point in Brecon Beacons National Park (and southern Britain as a whole) for some breathtaking views. While out walking the trail, you will climb up into the mountains to explore the central beacons, traversing the summits of Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan, Cribyn, and Fan-y-Big, before descending back into the valley below. This is a great alternate route from which you can explore the rugged terrain of the Brecon Beacons.
Moderate
17.7 km
817 m
5.5-7.5h
9.9 overall rating
Snowdonia

Snowdon via the Watkin Path

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.
Hard
14.2 km
1,013 m
5.5-7.5h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Parc Bryn Bach Circular Walk

The Parc Bryn Bach Circular Walk is a charming lakeside adventure in Wales that will take you through a 340 acre nature reserve. While out walking the trail, you will follow closely around the shores of a 36 acre lake that features beautiful views of the surrounding grassland and forest. This is a lovely walking route near Brecon Beacons National Park that is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure.
Easy
2.1 km
35 m
0.5h
9.8 overall rating
Snowdonia

Cwm Idwal Walk

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.
Easy
4.3 km
95 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Torpantau, Corn Du, and Pen-y-Fan Circular Walk

The Torpantau, Corn Du, and Pen-y-Fan Circular Walk is a long and challenging outdoor excursion in Brecon Beacons National Park that is utilized by special forces for training in rugged mountain terrain. While out walking this 13.7mi trail, you will traverse the undulating terrain of the mountains to visit the summit viewpoints of Corn Du and Pen-y-Fan, before making the return along an elevated position above the valley. This is a very challenging trail that should only be undertaken by seasoned walkers.
Hard
22.0 km
1,183 m
7-10h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Brecon Beacons Four Peaks Walk

The Brecon Beacons Four Peaks Walk is a fun, albeit very popular, walking route in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you on the most direct route over these famous mountains. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through the rugged, mountainous terrain in order to traverse the summits of Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan, Cribyn, and Fan-y-Big. Even though it is a well-travelled route, the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains are an ample reward for having to deal with the crowds.
Moderate
13.4 km
1,180 m
5.5-8h
No Ratings
Snowdonia

Llyn Gwynant Walk

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.
Easy
10.3 km
401 m
3-4h
9.4 overall rating
Snowdonia

Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track

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.
Moderate
12.1 km
841 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Llanfrynach and Fan-y-Big Walk

The Llanfrynach and Fan-y-Big Walk is a challenging adventure in Wales that will take you up into the Brecon Beacons for stunning views from the ‘diving board’ rock formation at Fan-y-Big. While tout on the walk, you will pass through the village of Llanfrynach to traverse the open countryside, climbing uphill to the summit of Fan-y-Big before descending along Cefn Cyff. Walkers should take note that this route is best done in favourable weather conditions, as navigation will be easier and the views will be far more scenic.
Hard
16.3 km
757 m
5-7h
9.8 overall rating
Snowdonia

Moel Siabod – A Stunning Walk in Snowdonia National Park

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.
Moderate
11.1 km
801 m
4-6h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Usk Reservoir Walk

The Usk Reservoir Walk is a great adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that offers a chance to explore a lovely body of water set in the Welsh countryside. While out walking the trail, you will follow along the edge of the Usk Reservoir and enjoy beautifully scenic views across the surface of the water and the surrounding woodland landscape. This is a fantastic walking route that is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure.
Moderate
8.7 km
244 m
2-3h
10 overall rating
Snowdonia

Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd

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.
Very Easy
2.1 km
116 m
0.5-1h
No Ratings
Brecon Beacons National Park

Talybont Reservoir Walk

The Talybont Reservoir Walk is a relaxing outdoor experience in Wales that will take you around the shoreline of the largest stillwater reservoir in the central Brecon Beacons. While out walking the trail, you will traverse quiet roads and footpaths through the forest, as you take in some beautiful views across the water. While this is an easy-going walk, be sure to keep an eye on children and dogs when walking along the road portions of the route.
Easy
9.5 km
356 m
2.5-3.5h

1-20 of 135 routes

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