Hiking in Snowdonia
From Snowdon's bustling paths to the raw wilderness of the Rhinogs, Snowdonia hiking delivers proper adventure.
5 Adventures
Hill Walking & Hiking
Snowdonia
Hill Walking & Navigation Courses
Snowdonia
Llanberis Path Guided Walk
Snowdonia
Snowdonia Mountain Guides
Explore Snowdonia's peaks with expert local guides.
View Their Trips
Snowdon Summit Hike
Snowdonia
Walking Trails
Snowdonia
From Snowdon's bustling paths to the raw wilderness of the Rhinogs, Snowdonia hiking delivers proper adventure.
Snowdonia. Eryri. Call it what you will, this corner of North Wales is a hiker's paradise, no arguments. Forget manicured trails and gentle strolls; here, the mountains bite back. We're talking proper peaks, scrambling ridges, and views that'll stop you dead in your tracks.
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) inevitably hogs the limelight, and rightly so. Six different routes offer varying levels of challenge, from the relatively gentle Llanberis Path to the exposed Crib Goch, a knife-edge arete only for those with a head for heights. But don't let Snowdon overshadow the rest. Tryfan's iconic North Ridge is a classic scramble, Cadair Idris offers solitude and stunning vistas, and the Glyderau are just plain weird, all jagged rocks and otherworldly landscapes.
Hiking in Snowdonia isn't always a walk in the park (literally). The weather can change in an instant, navigation can be tricky, and some routes demand serious scrambling skills. But that's the appeal, right? This is a place to test yourself, to earn those summit views, and to refuel with a well-deserved pint in a cosy pub afterwards. It's best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and some experience of hill walking. Beginners can find plenty of easier trails, but even those should be approached with respect. Come prepared, respect the mountains, and Snowdonia will reward you with memories that last a lifetime. Just remember to pack your waterproofs… and maybe a compass.
Best Spots for Hiking in Snowdonia
9 spots ranked by our team. Each one researched, visited, and honestly reviewed.
Snowdon via the Llanberis Path
The most popular and arguably easiest route to the summit of Snowdon. A well-maintained but long and steady climb suitable for beginners with good fitness. Expect crowds, especially in summer. The views from the top are unparalleled on a clear day, stretching across Snowdonia, Anglesey, and beyond.
Best for: Beginners and families looking to summit Snowdon
Llanberis village car parks. Pay and display, fills up very early (before 8am in summer). Park & Ride available from Nant Peris.
Get directions to Llanberis Path TrailheadInsider tip: Avoid weekends and school holidays. Consider starting very early or very late to avoid the crowds.
Tryfan North Ridge
A classic grade 1 scramble up the iconic Tryfan. Requires a good head for heights and some scrambling experience. The route is exposed and rocky, demanding careful footwork. Summit views are spectacular, encompassing the Ogwen Valley and the Glyderau.
Best for: Experienced scramblers and those seeking an adrenaline rush
Laybys along the A5 in the Ogwen Valley. Fills up very early.
Get directions to Ogwen CottageInsider tip: Practice on easier scrambles first. Descending via the South Ridge is generally considered safer.
Crib Goch
Not for the faint of heart! Crib Goch is a notorious knife-edge arete offering exhilarating but highly exposed scrambling. Requires a very steady head for heights and excellent scrambling skills. Should only be attempted in good weather conditions. It is part of the full Snowdon Horseshoe.
Best for: Experienced mountaineers and confident scramblers
Pen-y-Pass car park. Expensive and fills up ridiculously early (before 7am in summer).
Get directions to Pen-y-PassInsider tip: Consider starting very early or attempting it mid-week to avoid crowds. Check weather conditions meticulously.
Cadair Idris via the Minffordd Path
A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of Cadair Idris. The Minffordd Path is steep and rugged, with some scrambling sections. The summit offers panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and the surrounding mountains. Legend says you'll either die, go mad, or become a poet if you sleep on the summit!
Best for: Experienced hikers looking for a challenging climb and stunning views
Minffordd Hotel car park. Pay and display.
Get directions to Minffordd HotelInsider tip: Check the weather forecast carefully as conditions can change rapidly on Cadair Idris. The tea room at the Minffordd Hotel is a welcome sight after the hike.
Cwm Idwal Circular Walk
A classic Snowdonia walk around the stunning Cwm Idwal, a glacial cirque with a dark and mysterious atmosphere. The path is mostly well-defined, with some rocky sections. Explore the unique geology and botany of this National Nature Reserve.
Best for: Families, nature lovers, and those seeking a moderately challenging walk
Ogwen Cottage car park. Pay and display, can get busy.
Get directions to Ogwen CottageInsider tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy it by the shores of Llyn Idwal. Look out for the Devil's Kitchen (Twll Du) – a dark cleft in the cliffs above the lake.
Y Garn from Ogwen Cottage
A relatively short but steep climb to the summit of Y Garn, offering fantastic views of Tryfan and the Ogwen Valley. The route involves some scrambling over rocky terrain. A good introduction to the Glyderau range.
Best for: Experienced hikers and scramblers
Ogwen Cottage car park. Pay and display, fills up quickly.
Get directions to Ogwen CottageInsider tip: Extend the walk by continuing along the Glyderau ridge to Glyder Fawr for a more challenging day out.
Rhinog Fawr
A wild and remote mountain with challenging terrain. Rhinog Fawr is known for its ruggedness, steep climbs, and lack of clear paths. Requires good navigation skills and a sense of adventure. Rewards include solitude and stunning views of the coastline.
Best for: Experienced hikers seeking a challenging and remote adventure
Small parking area near the Roman Steps. Limited space.
Get directions to Near Roman StepsInsider tip: Download an offline map and bring a compass. The terrain is unforgiving and easy to get lost on.
Nantlle Ridge
A challenging and rewarding ridge walk with stunning views of Snowdonia and the coast. The Nantlle Ridge involves some scrambling and requires a good head for heights. A less crowded alternative to the more popular ridges.
Best for: Experienced hikers and scramblers
Limited parking in the village of Rhyd Ddu or nearby laybys.
Get directions to Rhyd DduInsider tip: Start early to avoid the heat and crowds. The descent from Trum y Ddysgl can be tricky.
Aber Falls to Carneddau Foothills
A beautiful walk starting at the dramatic Aber Falls, leading into the foothills of the Carneddau range. The route follows well-maintained paths and offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding mountains. A good option for a less strenuous hike.
Best for: Families and those looking for a scenic walk with less challenging terrain
Aber Falls car park. Pay and display.
Get directions to Aber Falls Car ParkInsider tip: Take a dip in the plunge pool at the base of Aber Falls on a hot day (if you're brave enough!).
Need to Know
Weather
Snowdonia's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Conditions can change rapidly, even on seemingly clear days. Be prepared for rain, wind, and mist, especially at higher altitudes. Always check the forecast before setting out and be prepared to turn back if necessary.
Gear Checklist
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Local Gear Shops
Joe Brown's
Capel Curig, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0EE
A legendary outdoor shop with a wide range of climbing and hiking gear. Known for its expert advice and friendly service. A must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
V12 Outdoor
High Street, Llanberis LL55 4HB
A modern outdoor shop with a great selection of hiking and climbing gear. Offers expert boot fitting and friendly advice.
Cotswold Outdoor
Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AY
Part of a national chain, offering a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment. Good for general hiking gear and clothing.
Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports
Unit 4, Crown Buildings, High St, Llanberis LL55 4ER
A long-standing outdoor retailer with a focus on quality equipment. Good selection of technical gear.
Events & Races
Snowdonia Trail Marathon
July • race • £65
A challenging trail marathon through the stunning Snowdonia National Park.
More info →Snowdon Race
July • race • £50
A classic fell race from Llanberis to the summit of Snowdon and back.
More info →Welsh 3000s Challenge
Summer • competition
A challenge to climb all 15 mountains over 3,000 feet in Wales within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
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About Hiking
What to Expect
Hiking offers an incredible way to explore the natural beauty of Snowdonia.
Requirements
Most hiking experiences are suitable for beginners, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.