Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park has long called to the romantics and the wild at heart seeking magical pursuits amongst regal alpine peaks. Covering hundreds of square miles, it is the UK’s third largest National Park and encompasses vast mountain ranges promising unrivalled allure. From the sapphire sheen of glacial lakes and the jade hues of ancient woodland to picturesque mountainside villages, each pocket promises a divine escape, best explored on foot.
Uncover spellbinding landscapes and trace trails along the best walks in the National Park. From leisurely ambles following serene pathways to some of the park’s most challenging hikes, adventure answers to all who seek its timeless charm in Eryri.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
The heart of Eryri National Park, Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) is a magnetic destination for walkers. The highest mountain in Wales and the second highest in the UK, it rises grandly above the park’s undulating ranges and is often brushed with snow in the cooler months. Select from one of the six different routes that weave up Yr Wyddfa’s mountainsides to reach the summit: the Llanberis Path (9 miles), Rhyd-Ddu Path (8.5 miles), Miners’ Track (8 miles), Watkin Path (8 miles), Snowdon Ranger Path (8 miles), or Pyg Track (7 miles). While the routes starting at Pen Y Pass are shorter, the Llanberis Path is considered the longest yet most gradual trail to the top of Yr Wyddfa, proposing hours of panoramic escapades at a steady pace.
Cwm Idwal
The oldest National Nature Reserve in Wales, Cwm Idwal has long been adored for its scenic splendour and diverse wildlife. An otherworldly valley basin sculpted by ice and geological artistry, it sets a spellbinding setting for walks at the foot of giants. With sun-brushed mountains decorating the skyline and a teal lake mirroring craggy slopes, it offers year-round pursuits in the alpine air. To enjoy the bewitching beauty of Cwm Idwal without ascending the adjoining Devil’s Kitchen, pursue a 3-mile circular walk around the lake. Starting from the Cwm Idwal Visitor Centre, this route provides a breath-taking hike over some uneven terrain, bypassing some of the area’s steeper ascents.
Gelert’s Grave
In the picturesque village of Beddgelert resides the resting place of Gelert. A loyal hound belonging to the Medieval Welsh Prince, Llewelyn the Great, Gelert’s story is entwined with local folklore and enchants visitors of all ages. For one of the best walks in Snowdonia for unhurried days, enjoy a gentle amble through the village to find this brave pup’s grave and discover the tranquil setting and renowned story. Elsewhere in the village, you can also find a sculpture dedicated to Gelert, crafted in moulded bronze. Meanwhile, the Dinas Emrys trail leads from Beddgelert and weaves its way past waterfalls and oak woodlands in a tale of dragons, wizards, and Iron Age activity.
Rhaeadr Fawr
Found in the foothills of Carneddau, Rhaeadr Fawr (Aber Falls) is one of the most magical sights in Eryri National Park. Forming part of Afon Goch’s (Red River) undulating journey towards the Menai Straits, this mighty waterfall plunges over the top of a rocky cliff face and falls 120 feet in a spectacular display of white water and countless shimmering droplets. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wales, it can be reached as part of a relaxed 2.5-mile walk along a well-defined, waymarked trail. Perfect for families, much of the route is accessible to electric wheelchairs and pushchairs too. Stop for a picnic on grassy flats near the falls, or continue a little further to absorb more of the scenery.
Llyn Elsi
Following picturesque pathways from the village of Betws-y-Coed, the verdant cloak of Gwydyr Forest and the glass-topped waters of Llyn Elsi beckon. For unforgettable hours in nature, head towards St Mary’s Church in the village and wend your way steeply uphill to immerse in the sylvan scenery of the forest beyond. Blending a mix of level pathways, old miners’ routes, and forestry tracks, this area of fir and broadleaf woodlands offers both challenging and rewarding hikes within easy reach of the village. Look out for waymarkers along the way to keep track of your progress and make use of the benches and natural plateaus to savour the quietude with a flask of something soothing. Particularly beautiful is the 4-mile walk from Betws-y-Coed that loops around the lake.
Moel Siabod
For those seeking soul-stirring reveries amongst the magical mountainscapes of Eryri, turn your attention to Moel Siabod. The highest peak in the realm’s Moelwynion mountain range, it takes pride of place in the heart of the park and offers some of the most heavenly vistas imaginable. On a clear day, summitters can be rewarded with views of 13 of Wales’ 14 highest peaks. Park near the bridge at Pont Cyfyng and pick up a 6-mile route for natural inspiration. Wending past waterfalls, lakes, old quarries, and sweeping mountain vistas, it’s hard to find a more bewitching backdrop for restorative moments in the open air.
Dolmelynllyn Estate
Situated in the southern swathes of Eryri, the National Trust-owned Dolmelynllyn Estate is home to an area of hummocky hills and dappled woodland. Awash with colour in spring and dipped in gold and copper tones in autumn, this resplendent area is also well known for its gold mining heritage. Adorn your outdoor attire and trace your way along 4 miles of trails from Ganllwyd car park to enjoy the Dolmelynllyn Estate walk. Along the way, the spectacular Rhaeadr Ddu Falls set a rumbling soundtrack, complemented by the crunch of leaves and lilt of birdsong. As you go, keep an eye out for the remains of 19th-century gold workings and crumbling cottages amongst the sea of trees.
Llyn Padarn
One of the most spectacular spots for walks in Eryri National Park is Llyn Padarn. On the fringes of the park, this stunning glacial lake is around 2 miles long, hugged by forested slopes and circled by the Llanberis Lake Railway. One of the largest natural lakes in the country, it’s a tempting proposition for short walks and all-day rambles, from the manicured swathes of Padarn Country Park to the 5-mile circular around the lake. For those seeking something a little different, the lake is also a great destination for a range of outdoor pursuits, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and wild swimming on clement days. Around the lake, scenic highlights include the 13th-century Dolbadarn Castle, as well as the beloved ‘Lonely Tree’ on the shores of Llyn Padarn. Nearby, the village of Llanberis appeals with a wealth of welcoming cafés and restaurants in which to enjoy delicious repasts after romantic lakeside adventures.
Crib Goch
For the most experienced hikers, there is one particular destination in Eryri National Park that captures hearts and imaginations alike: Crib Goch. A knife-edge ridge (and A Grade 1 scramble) within the Yr Wyddfa massif, it is usually completed as part of the 7.5-mile Snowdon Horseshoe, a demanding hike beginning and ending at Pen-y-Pass. Requiring high levels of technical skill (and specialist equipment in winter), physical fitness, and a solid head for heights, this route should only be undertaken by seasoned mountaineers. That said, it is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after accomplishments in the park and promises an exhilarating experience and unrivalled adventure amongst some of the UK’s most extraordinary landscapes.
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