The best walks and hikes in Conwy
4.6
(4127)
40,142
hikers
898
hikes
Hiking in Conwy offers diverse landscapes, from the dramatic mountainous terrain and glacial valleys of Snowdonia National Park to serene lakeside paths and coastal routes. The region is characterized by high peaks such as the Glyderau and Carneddau, extensive forests like Gwydir Forest, and significant coastal features including the Great Orme. River valleys and waterfalls also contribute to the varied hiking environment.
Best hiking trails in Conwy
- The most popular hiking route is Y Garn to Glyder Fach loop —…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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.
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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.
4.7
(71)
871
hikers
9.92km
03:59
670m
680m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.5
(114)
486
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(40)
478
hikers
18.8km
06:45
1,040m
1,040m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(44)
380
hikers
4.61km
02:47
530m
530m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(42)
269
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(58)
409
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(26)
281
hikers
7.01km
04:02
800m
800m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Other adventures in Conwy
Tips from the Community
A reminder of when the area was heavily worked, part of the old Slate Level.
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Often referred to as the "gateway to Snowdonia," Betws-y-CoedClick to open side panel for more information is a charming alpine-style village in North Wales that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a Victorian postcard. It’s a place where stone bridges cross bubbling rivers and the air always smells slightly of pine and rain. The Heart of the Village The town itself is centered around a large village green, perfect for a slow stroll or a picnic while watching the world go by. It’s lined with cozy independent shops, outdoor gear stores, and cafes that make it a favorite for both hikers and those looking for a quiet afternoon. Iconic Bridges and Waterfalls Betws-y-Coed is famous for its picturesque crossings and dramatic water features that are just a short walk from the center.
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Huge angled boulder that you can see from the valley below. It can be climbed with care, but is polished these days.
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Conwy?
Conwy offers a vast network of over 900 hiking trails, catering to all abilities. You'll find everything from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents within the region.
What are some challenging mountain hikes in Conwy?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Conwy, particularly within Snowdonia National Park, offers routes like the Moel Siabod and Daear Ddu Ridge Loop or the extensive Carnedd Dafydd & Carnedd Llewelyn loop from the Ogwen Valley. These trails feature significant elevation gain and rugged terrain, providing rewarding experiences with stunning views.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Conwy?
Yes, Conwy has many family-friendly options. The Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage is an easy 2.6-mile path around a beautiful glacial lake, perfect for a gentle outing. The Gwydir Forest also offers tranquil circular hikes around lakes like Llyn Crafnant, which features a family-friendly trail.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in Conwy?
Many trails in Conwy are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, which is common in Snowdonia National Park. Always follow the Countryside Code and respect local signage. Some areas, particularly nature reserves, may have specific restrictions.
Are there any circular walks with great viewpoints?
Absolutely. The Y Garn to Glyder Fach loop offers high mountain terrain with expansive views. For something less strenuous, the Conwy Mountain hike provides panoramic vistas of Conwy Castle, the estuary, and the Great Orme.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along the trails in Conwy?
Conwy's trails lead to diverse natural attractions. You can encounter dramatic mountain summits like Glyder Fach summit and Moel Siabod summit, stunning waterfalls such as Aber Falls and Swallow Falls, and serene lakes like Llyn Crafnant and Llyn Geirionydd nestled within Gwydir Forest.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Conwy?
The best time for hiking in Conwy is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and days are longer. However, the region's diverse landscapes offer beauty year-round. Winter hiking is possible for experienced individuals, but requires appropriate gear and awareness of rapidly changing mountain conditions.
Do I need a permit to hike in Conwy or Snowdonia National Park?
Generally, you do not need a permit for hiking on public footpaths and access land in Conwy or Snowdonia National Park. However, some specific activities or events might require permission. Always respect private land and follow the Countryside Code. For more detailed information on access rights, you can visit Visit Wales.
Where can I find parking for popular trailheads in Conwy?
Parking is available at many popular trailheads, though it can fill up quickly during peak season. For routes in the Ogwen Valley (near Tryfan, Glyderau, Llyn Idwal), there are car parks around Ogwen Cottage. For Moel Siabod, parking is often found near Capel Curig. For Aber Falls, dedicated parking areas are available. Always check local signage for fees and restrictions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Conwy?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 4000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from dramatic mountain scenery to peaceful forest trails and stunning coastal paths, as well as the well-maintained routes and the sense of adventure the region provides.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls in Conwy?
Yes, Conwy is home to several impressive waterfalls. The Aber Falls Trail, located within Snowdonia National Park, is a popular choice, leading to a spectacular cascade. Another renowned natural attraction is Swallow Falls near Betws-y-Coed, famous for its thunderous cascades and scenic viewpoints. Conwy Falls also offers picturesque views near Betws-y-Coed.
How accessible are Conwy's hiking trails by public transport?
Public transport access varies across Conwy. Key hubs like Betws-y-Coed and Capel Curig have bus services that connect to various trailheads within Snowdonia National Park. Coastal towns like Llandudno and Conwy also have good public transport links, including bus routes to areas like the Great Orme. Planning ahead with local bus timetables is recommended.
Most popular routes in Conwy
Most popular attractions in Conwy
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