Snowdonia National Park is a treasure trove for walkers, a place where each trail tells its own unique story. I’ve been fortunate to spend over 20 years exploring this incredible landscape, and it never ceases to amaze me. Whether you’re scaling the iconic heights of Snowdon, navigating the rugged terrain of Tryfan, or enjoying the panoramic views from Cnicht, there’s a walk in Snowdonia to match every level of skill and enthusiasm. This isn’t just a list of trails; it’s a collection of experiences that have shaped my love for this region. If you’re looking to discover the best walks in Snowdonia, you’ve come to the right place.

In this in-depth guide, I’ll share my top 20 trails, complete with insights on their difficulty levels, standout features, and tips to enhance your walking adventure. So, lace up those hiking boots and let’s get started—Snowdonia’s natural beauty awaits

Why Snowdonia?

Snowdonia National Park is more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s an adventurer’s playground spread across 823 square miles in North Wales. From its craggy cliffs to its tranquil waterways, this national park offers a multitude of experiences that make it a top destination for walking and hiking.

Snowdonia is a feast for the eyes, offering vistas that range from expansive moorlands to secluded valleys. Whether you’re standing atop one of its many peaks or wandering through its hidden glens, the views are nothing short of breathtaking.

The park is a hiker’s dream, offering trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re in the mood for a short walk around a picturesque lake or up for a challenging hike along a rugged ridge, Snowdonia has you covered. The variety of terrains also means that every walk offers a unique set of challenges and rewards, from navigating rocky terrain to discovering ancient woodlands.

Snowdonia is steeped in history, adding a cultural richness to your hiking experience. The area’s industrial heritage, particularly evident along the Snowdonia Slate Trail, offers fascinating insights into the lives of communities that have called this region home for generations.

Each season in Snowdonia brings its own unique charm. Spring offers blooming flora and milder temperatures, making it an ideal time for those looking to avoid the summer crowds. Autumn paints the landscape in a palette of warm hues, while winter provides the thrill of navigating snow-covered paths and the chance to witness the beauty of frozen lakes and icy waterfalls.

How to Use OS Map Routes

To make your walking experience as smooth as possible, I’ve included links to the OS Maps routes for each of the 20 walks. This way, you can easily plan your journey, know what to expect, and make the most of your time in Snowdonia. Whether you’re a map aficionado or new to the world of outdoor navigation, these OS Maps will be your indispensable guide on the trail.

Navigating through Snowdonia’s diverse landscapes can be both rewarding and challenging. That’s why it’s crucial to have reliable mapping tools at your disposal. OS Map Routes are an invaluable resource for any walker or hiker looking to explore Snowdonia safely and efficiently. As one of Ordnance Survey’s Get Outside Champions, I’m proud to advocate for the use of these trusted mapping tools.

These maps come loaded with features that make them both user-friendly and incredibly detailed. Expect to find information on elevation gain, alternative routes, and points of interest, helping you plan your walk down to the last detail.

You can access these maps in various ways, including purchasing physical copies or using digital versions available on apps and websites.

Tips for Effective Navigation

When using OS Map Routes, it’s essential to understand how to read contour lines, symbols, and other map features. Always carry a physical map as a backup, even if you’re using a digital version. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast before heading out; Snowdonia’s weather can be quite unpredictable.

The Best Walks in Snowdonia / Eryri

Snowdon via Pyg Track

The Pyg Track is often described as the ‘classic’ route up Snowdon, steeped in history and legend. It offers a balanced blend of challenge and scenic beauty, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced walkers. The route is well-maintained and simple to follow, providing possibly the best scenery of any of the Snowdon routes.

What to Expect

As you make your way up, you’ll be flanked by the grand cliffs of Crib Goch and Y Lliwedd. The path takes you past the stunning lakes of Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn, culminating in a final steep zigzagging ascent to the summit. The Pyg Track also offers the least amount of vertical ascent among the Snowdon routes, making it a good option for those less experienced in hillwalking.

The usual starting point is the Pen-y-Pass car park, postcode: LL55 4NU. The car park fills up quickly, especially during weekends, so consider using the Sherpa Bus service from Llanberis if you’re not an early riser.

• Click here for the OS Maps Route

Snowdon via Miners Track

The Miners’ Track is a fantastic option for those looking for a less strenuous ascent to Snowdon’s summit. It’s particularly well-suited for families and less experienced hikers. The route is rich in history, originally built to serve the Britannia Copper Mines.

What to Expect

The walk starts off relatively flat, passing by the beautiful lakes of Llyn Teyrn and Llyn Llydaw. As you approach the ruins of the old copper mines, the path becomes steeper, eventually merging with the Pyg Track for the final ascent. The Miners’ Track offers a unique blend of Snowdonia’s industrial past and natural beauty.

The usual starting point is the Pen-y-Pass car park, postcode: LL55 4NU. This car park is popular and fills up quickly, so consider using the Sherpa Bus service from Llanberis or Nant Peris.

• Click here for the OS Maps Route

Snowdon via Rhyd Ddu Path

The Rhyd Ddu Path is a quieter alternative to the more popular routes up Snowdon, offering a sense of solitude and tranquillity. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying a challenging ascent. I’ve walked this route a few times and I’ve enjoyed it every time. It definitely makes my list of the best walks in Snowdonia.

• A Quick Guide to the Rhyd Ddu Path

What to Expect

The path takes you through a variety of landscapes, including open moorland and rocky outcrops. It offers stunning views of the Nantlle Ridge and the surrounding valleys. The route also passes by the South Ridge, providing an option for a more challenging detour.

The starting point for this walk is the Rhyd Ddu car park. The Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus service offers convenient connections from Caernarfon and Porthmadog, making it accessible even without a car.

• Click here for the OS Maps Route

Snowdon via Crib Goch

The Crib Goch route is a heart-pounding adventure that offers more than just a walk; it’s a Grade 1 scramble that’s not for the faint-hearted.

The arête of Crib Goch provides an exhilarating experience that’s incredibly rewarding for those who dare. As you navigate this knife-edged ridge, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Llyn Lydaw and the surrounding peaks, making every step worthwhile.

For those looking for a challenge, this route is often included in the National Three Peaks Challenge and the Welsh 3000s, making it a bucket-list item for avid hikers. The walk is a diverse experience, combining elements of the Pyg Track and the Llanberis Path, offering a varied and engaging hiking experience.

What to Expect

The hike starts off with a steep ascent, so be prepared for an immediate incline. Once you reach the arête, you’ll find yourself on a narrow path with sheer drops on either side, requiring a good head for heights. Certain sections, like the ‘bad step’ and the Pinnacles, will require your full attention and both hands for scrambling. The route eventually joins the Miner’s Track, leading you back to your starting point.

The usual starting point is the Pen-y-Pass car park or Nant Gwynant laybys along the A4086 and A498.

• Click here for the OS Maps Route

Snowdon via Llanberis Path

The Llanberis Path is often considered the “tourist path,” and for good reason. It’s one of the longest routes to the summit but also one of the most gradual, making it accessible for walkers of all ages and abilities. As you ascend, you’ll pass through the Cwm Brwynog valley, which was once home to a close-knit community connected to the Faenol Estate. This adds a layer of historical depth to your journey, as you’ll see the ruins of this old community and even the remains of Capel Hebron, a chapel that was the heart and soul of this small community.