The best walks and hikes in North Wales
4.5
(19889)
183,580
hikers
4,409
hikes
Hiking in North Wales offers diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to a varied coastline. The region is characterized by the towering peaks and glacial valleys of Snowdonia National Park, including Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales. Coastal paths, such as the Anglesey Coastal Path, provide routes along cliffs and sandy bays, while other areas feature rolling hills and forests. This terrain provides a wide range of hiking experiences for different skill levels.
Best hiking trails in North Wales
…Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.9
(803)
8,781
hikers
12.3km
04:56
680m
690m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(385)
3,111
hikers
10.5km
05:09
850m
850m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(122)
1,521
hikers
13.4km
05:17
980m
980m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(143)
1,471
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(147)
914
hikers
4.77km
01:32
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(78)
935
hikers
12.4km
05:51
870m
870m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(113)
945
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(109)
1,403
hikers
4.18km
01:11
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(103)
576
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(85)
1,062
hikers
13.4km
04:59
770m
770m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Popular around North Wales
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Tips from the Community
A reminder of when the area was heavily worked, part of the old Slate Level.
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The Devil’s Kitchen, known in Welsh as Twll Du ("Black Hole"), is a massive, dark crack in the basaltic cliffs of Clogwyn y Geifr, towering over the southern end of Llyn Idwal. Why the Name? It earned its English nickname because of the plumes of mist or steam that frequently rise from the chasm. To early observers, this looked like smoke rising from a chimney, leading to the legend that the Devil was busy cooking inside. The Experience The Path: A steep, rocky "staircase" of boulders leads you from the lake shore up toward the Kitchen. It is a strenuous climb that requires sure-footedness, as the ancient rock is often wet and slippery. The Scenery: As you ascend, you pass the Devil’s Appendix (the waterfall mentioned earlier) and gain incredible views back over the Cwm Idwal "amphitheatre." Geology: The area is a world-class geological site. You can see the Idwal Syncline here—a dramatic U-shaped fold in the rock layers caused by tectonic pressure millions of years ago. Botanical Rarety: The humid, sheltered environment of the Kitchen is one of the few places in the UK where rare arctic-alpine plants, like the Snowdon Lily, have survived since the last Ice Age. Once you reach the top of the Kitchen, the landscape flattens out into a high plateau containing the small, eerie lake of Llyn y Cŵn.
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Llyn Idwal is a stunning glacial lake nestled in the Glyderau mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia), North Wales. Designated as Wales’ first National Nature Reserve, its dramatic landscape was famously studied by Charles Darwin to prove glacial action. Legend says the lake is named after a drowned prince and that birds refuse to fly over its crystal-clear waters.
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Idwal Gorge is a dramatic, steep-sided ravine located above Llyn Idwal in Eryri (Snowdonia). Known for the Idwal Staircase, it offers a challenging "Grade 2" scramble through mossy, water-worn rock and hidden cascades. In winter, it is a premier destination for ice climbers. Carved by glacial meltwater, this rugged cleft provides a raw encounter with the powerful geological forces that sculpted the iconic Ogwen Valley landscape.
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A wonderful spiky summit with fine views to Yr Wyddfa and into Ogwen Valley. The summit itself is a scramble over very large jumbled boulders.
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Y Garn is a fine hill, usually climbed from Ogwen Valley by it's West ridge, or as part of the walk along the Glyders range between Elidir Fawr and the Glyders themselves. There is however another way up, the East Ridge, which is a Grade 2 scramble and starts from Llyn Idwal.
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A fine way to descend from Snowdon , an alternative Snowdon Horseshoe.
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More Information
Wales’ greatest mountains
Dominating the west of the region is Snowdonia National Park,an area of 823 square miles (1,324 km) that contains Wales’ highest peaks and Bala Lake, the country’s largest natural body of water. Many of the most popular hikes in North Wales explore Snowdonia’s lakes, glaciated cirques and mountain peaks.
Rewards are plentiful, from staggering views to encounters with the resident wildlife, such as the Carneddau’s wild ponies or the ravens that seem to ominously circle the darkest crags and narrowest arêtes. There are also fantastic woodland trails to fairytale-esque glens, walks that acquaint you with the region’s rich slate mining heritage and plenty else to discover besides.
Silent summits and tranquil trails
Snowdonia is spectacular and it’s no wonder hikers throng to the national park in their millions every year. However, some of the best hiking routes in North Wales explore lesser-known ranges, such as the Berwyns and the Clwydians, which offer a wilder experience where you are more likely to find solitude. Even within Snowdonia, there are plenty of incredible landscapes that don’t see anything near the footfall of its more popular areas, such as the rugged and challenging peaks of the Rhinogydd.
The Berwyn range is home to Britain’s highest single drop waterfall, the mesmerising 240-foot (80 m) Pistyll Rhaedr. Many link the waterfall with a hike to Cadair Berwyn, the highest Welsh summit outside its national parks, at 2,730 feet (832 m).
Whichever range you end up hiking on, be prepared for North Wales’ notoriously changeable weather. The height of the land forces moist air from the Atlantic upwards, where it cools and falls as rain. Precipitation is common, so always bring waterproofs and plenty of warm layers for your adventures here. In winter, Snowdonia’s higher peaks often demand mountaineering experience and equipment.
The Isle of Anglesey and the Llŷn Peninsula
It’s not all about hills and mountains either, many of the finest hikes in North Wales take you to its sublime coastline. The Isle of Anglesey’s dramatic coves and tranquil beaches are the highlights of its superb coastal path, while Holyhead Mountain and the hugely impressive cliffs at Gogarth Bay await discovery on Holy Island. The Llŷn Peninsula is another gem, with unspoilt pastures, Irish Sea panoramas and a gentle way of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in North Wales?
North Wales offers a vast network of hiking opportunities, with over 4,400 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring options for every skill level.
What types of terrain can I expect when hiking in North Wales?
The region is renowned for its diverse and dramatic landscapes. You'll encounter towering mountains, rugged hills, and a wild, storm-battered coastline. Snowdonia National Park features glacial valleys and peaks like Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), while coastal paths, such as the Anglesey Coastal Path, offer cliff-top walks and sandy bays. Other areas include rolling hills and forests, providing a wide variety of hiking experiences.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in North Wales?
Yes, North Wales has many routes suitable for families. For an easy and scenic walk, consider the Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage, which is suitable for all skill levels and explores a beautiful glacial valley. Many coastal paths also offer gentler sections perfect for families.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in North Wales?
Many trails in North Wales are dog-friendly, especially those outside of sensitive conservation areas or farmland with livestock. Always keep dogs on a lead where livestock is present or signs request it, and be mindful of local regulations, particularly within Snowdonia National Park. The Llyn Idwal loop is a popular choice for hikers with dogs.
Are there any hikes in North Wales that feature waterfalls?
Absolutely! North Wales is home to several impressive waterfalls. You can visit the magnificent Swallow Falls near Betws-y-Coed, or explore the area around Conwy Falls. These natural features often have accessible paths nearby, making them great destinations for a scenic walk.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in North Wales?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 20,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the breathtaking mountain views, the diversity of the trails, and the sense of adventure offered by the rugged terrain. The well-maintained paths and clear signage on popular routes are also frequently highlighted.
Are there challenging circular walks in Snowdonia National Park?
Yes, Snowdonia offers several challenging circular routes for experienced hikers. The Snowdon Horseshoe is a classic difficult circular route, renowned for its dramatic ridges and panoramic views. Another challenging option is the Moel Siabod and Daear Ddu Ridge Loop, offering a strenuous climb with rewarding vistas.
What natural landmarks can I explore along the hiking trails?
North Wales is rich in natural landmarks. You can hike through Cwm Idwal, Wales's oldest national nature reserve, known for its ancient rock formations and the dramatic cleft of Devil's Kitchen. The region also features stunning lakes like Llyn Llydaw and Llyn Cau, often found along mountain routes.
Are there any moderate hikes that offer great views?
For a moderate challenge with spectacular scenery, consider the Y Garn to Glyder Fach loop in Snowdonia National Park. This route provides 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Another excellent moderate option is the Cwm Idwal & Y Garn loop, which combines the beauty of the valley with a climb to Y Garn's summit.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in North Wales?
The best time to hike in North Wales is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and days are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but can also be busy. Spring and autumn provide beautiful colours and fewer crowds, though weather can be more unpredictable. Winter hiking is possible for experienced individuals, but requires appropriate gear and awareness of rapidly changing mountain conditions.
Is public transport available to access hiking trails in North Wales?
Yes, public transport options exist for reaching many popular trailheads, particularly within Snowdonia National Park. Buses serve key locations like Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed, and Ogwen Cottage. The Snowdon Sherpa bus service is particularly useful for accessing different routes up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Planning ahead and checking timetables is recommended, especially during off-peak seasons.
Are there less crowded hiking trails in North Wales?
While popular spots like Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) can be busy, North Wales offers many quieter alternatives. Exploring the Carneddau range provides remote hiking experiences where wild ponies are often spotted. The Clwydian Range of hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, also offers excellent walks away from the main tourist hubs. Coastal paths, especially outside of peak season, can also provide a more tranquil experience.
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