The Best Walks in North Wales

North Wales is a breathtaking part of the country, boasting beautiful landscapes with lush green rolling hills and many coastal views.

One of the most well-known walking spots in North Wales is the stunning Snowdonia National Park and of course, the mighty Snowdon! We take a look at some other beautiful walking destinations within Snowdonia National Park and around North Wales to provide you with some options and a variety of difficulties.

Betws-y-Coed to Llyn Elsi

Distance: 6.7km
Ascent: 307m

Betws-y-Coed is a picturesque little village that is surrounded by hills, mountains and waterfalls. As one of the most popular villages in Snowdonia National Park, it is a great place to start a scenic walk!

The route to Llyn Elsi is marked the whole way, and it is easy to follow, making it a perfect route for beginners. You can start the walk from the Royal Oak Hotel in Betws-y-Coed and then make your way uphill towards St Mary’s Church.

The start of the trail is clearly signposted, and the trek should take around two hours. There are plenty of places to stop along the way for a bite to eat, a quick photo opportunity or a little rest to take in the beautiful surroundings.

Cadair Berwyn from Pistyll Rheadr

Distance: 8.9km
Ascent: 533m

One of the most popular walking routes in North Wales is the Cadair Berwyn from Pistyll Rheadr trek. If you are looking for a quieter walk that takes a wilder approach, then this is the perfect one for you!

With an impressive mountain range, the Berwyn Hills offer spectacular views with some waterfalls along the way. Paths are less trodden as this part of the Snowdonia National Park is often quieter due to its proximity. The route can take any time between three hours to four and a half hours.

It is the perfect quiet escape from day to day life and a chance to be at one with nature and the great outdoors. The ascent at times can be quite steep, so please do take extra care! It can sometimes get a little boggy along the route too, so be prepared and take your time when crossing obstacles.

CC by Wikipedia

Rhinog Fawr from Graigddu-isaf

Distance: 9.82km
Ascent: 582m

If you are looking for a little bit of a challenge, then the trek to the summit on this route should surely be that! The route from Graigddu-Isaf to Rhinog Fawr is breathtaking and is one that many like to do on a fine day so that they can really take in the beauty.

Many of the routes surrounding the Rhinog Fawr can be rather well hidden, so it is important you do your research and thorough planning before setting off.

The terrain can get a little complex at times with some sections subject to scrambling, and the rock can sometimes be damp, so take your time! There is absolutely no rush, and it is nice to take the route at a slower pace so that you can take in the remarkable surroundings as you go.

The route is said to take around five hours, but this is merely a guide. It could be achieved quicker or slower, depending on your ability and also what you plan to do along the way. If you are lucky to choose a clear day, then you could stop off somewhere along the way and have a picnic while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

CC by shrdlu-

Llyn Dinas

Distance: 2.82km
Ascent: 73m

We thought we would finish off with an excellent route for a group of mixed abilities or a family. The walk around Llyn Dinas can be taken as a gentle stroll and offers some splendid views. It is the perfect way to get out and about and take in some of the beautiful surroundings in Snowdonia without having to do any strenuous exercise.

There is also a wonderful little café in Nant Gwynant called Caffi Gwynant that is certainly worth the stop. You can make a little day of it and enjoy a stroll and a bite to eat. The route should take around an hour and a half, but this will depend on the pace and number of stops.

Will you be trekking with your young family? Take a look at our previous blog, a Guide to Hiking with Kids, for tips and advice for your next adventure!

We hope that you have enjoyed our list of some of the best walks in North Wales. To ensure you can trek comfortably, it is important that you wear the correct gear, including the right boots! Our range of lightweight hiking boots are brilliant for all types of walking and can offer support for your feet without being bulky or heavy.

You might also be interested in some of the best day hikes in England!