Are you looking for the best easy walks in Snowdonia National Park, Wales? Here are 10 low-level routes suitable for beginners, including short, flat and circular trails. No matter where you are on your hiking journey, this National Park has something for everyone!
Located in North Wales, Snowdonia is a mountainous region and a great destination for hiking through breathtaking landscapes, from rivers to hills and forests. I discovered it a few years ago, and it was a wonderful surprise! I was amazed by its moody weather and scenery, which made me fall in love with the area.
Full of beauty and history, the National Park offers picturesque paths for all levels, from beginners to more advanced wanderers, home to numerous hiking trails, over 100 lakes and rugged peaks to climb – an excellent destination for low-level outdoor lovers!
So, are you ready? In this article, we guide you through the 10 best easy walks in Snowdonia if you are short on time or looking to stretch your legs. From flat trails to moderate climbs, these accessible routes are ideal for an evening stroll or a family getaway and will give you a perfect taste of this National Park without too much effort. Enjoy! 🌿
READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide
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Overview: flat walks in Snowdonia National Park
- Cwm Idwal
- Llyn Ogwen
- Gelert’s Grave
- Llanberis path
- Llyn Dinas
- Llyn Crafnant
- Betws-y-coed Bridges
- Aber Falls
- Precipice Walk
- Rhaeadr Ddu
Planning a camping trip in Snowdonia? Check out this article:
10 Best Campsites in Snowdonia National Park
Easy & beginner Snowdonia walks – Map
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
10 best short walks & hikes in Snowdonia
Lace up your hiking boots and discover the 10 best easy walks in Snowdonia. Some may be considered moderate due to a modest uphill section or gentle climb, but all are relatively easy to complete, even for a beginner. And remember, you can always personalise your walk or retrace your steps to make it shorter.
READ MORE: Best Hikes in the UK: 16 Scenic Walking Trails
1- Cwm Idwal
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 3 hours
📈 Grade: moderately strenuous walk with some steep sections
📍 Start point: Ogwen Cottage
Cwm Idwal is a beautiful glacial valley in Snowdonia National Park. It is a popular destination for beginner hikers and nature lovers due to its stunning scenery, dramatic rock formations and the nearby Llyn Idwal, a glacial lake.
You will find in the area a popular circular walk taking you through a diverse range of landscapes, from the serene lake to the mountainous terrain! This walk usually starts at the Ogwen Cottage Visitor Centre, which provides parking and information for visitors.
Start by following the well-marked path into Cwm Idwal. You will walk along the banks of Llyn Idwal, surrounded by imposing cliffs and rocky slopes. It is a relatively easy and flat part of the walk.
After passing Llyn Idwal, you will encounter a more challenging section known as the Devil’s Kitchen. It is a steep and rocky path that leads to the mountain pass.
If you are adventurous, you can continue between two paths to Glyder Fawr or Glyder Fach for a breathtaking panorama. Otherwise, continue on a longer circular route that runs alongside the lake, eventually bringing you back to Cwm Idwal.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Cwm Idwal walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
2- Llyn Ogwen
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 2.9 miles (4.7 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 1 to 2 hours
📈 Grade: moderate walk with some rocky sections and road walking
📍 Start point: Ogwen Cottage
A circular walk around Llyn Ogwen in Snowdonia National Park is an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and tranquil setting of this glacial lake.
This short hike is relatively easy and provides picturesque views of Llyn Ogwen and the surrounding mountain landscape. It is suitable for walkers of various fitness levels and is a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of Snowdonia without tackling the more challenging peaks.
Start your walk at Ogwen Cottage by following the path around the northern shore of Llyn Ogwen. You will be treated to panoramic views of the lake and mountains, including Tryfan and the Glyderau range.
And if you are looking for a longer hike, here are two options:
Continue around the lake until you reach Ffynnon Lloer, a tranquil spot with a small stone shelter and a clear stream. It is a peaceful place to rest, enjoy a picnic and take in the surroundings.
And if you are up for a more challenging extension, you can leave the circular trail at Ffynnon Lloer and climb Tryfan, a distinctive and popular peak in Snowdonia. Alternatively, you can explore the Heather Terrace, a path that traverses the mountainside for a unique perspective on the area.
Whatever you decide, complete the loop around Llyn Ogwen by following the path back to your starting point and enjoy the scenic views one last time before reaching the car park.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Llyn Ogwen walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
3- Gelert’s Grave
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 1 hour
📈 Grade: easy and short riverside walk
📍 Start point: Beddgelert
Gelert’s Grave is a legendary and historic site located in Beddgelert, a picturesque village in Snowdonia. The grave is associated with a famous Welsh legend and is a popular destination for beginner walkers.
The Gelert’s Grave circular walk taking you along the River Glaslyn is relatively short and accessible to all, including families and people in wheelchairs. It offers an ideal combination of history, folklore and scenic beauty, making it a memorable quick hike in the heart of Snowdonia.
Start your walk in the centre of Beddgelert village and begin by following the signs to Gelert’s Grave, which will take you along the River Glaslyn. You also will pass through a beautiful wooded area, with the river on your left.
You will then reach Gelert’s Grave, a small and quiet site with a stone memorial and a gravestone for Gelert, the faithful dog of the medieval Welsh prince Llywelyn the Great.
After visiting the grave, you can continue your walk along the river or, if you are up for a longer hike, you can explore the surrounding area. The views of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, are particularly breathtaking from here.
And to return to the village, simply cross the river on the footbridge and follow the path back upstream. If you have time, explore the village of Beddgelert. It is known for its charming and narrow streets, tearooms, and traditional Welsh buildings. You can also visit the Sygun Copper Mine, a nearby attraction, or picnic by the river.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Gelert’s Grave walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
4- Llanberis Path
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 7 hours
📈 Grade: moderate walk with modest uphill walking
📍 Start point: Llanberis
The Llanberis Path is one of the most popular routes to the summit of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England. This path is often chosen by hikers as it is considered one of the most accessible and least challenging routes to the summit.
Due to its relatively gentle gradient, the trail is accessible to a wide range of walkers, including families with children, making it a good choice for less experienced hikers or those who prefer a less strenuous climb.
And although it is the longest of the 6 main routes, it is also the easiest walking route up Snowdon and the least steep.
BONUS TIP – if the way up is too challenging, hop on the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit and walk back down on foot.
The Llanberis Path usually starts in the village of Llanberis, located at the foot of Snowdon. As you climb, you will have plenty of opportunities to appreciate the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Llanberis Pass, Snowdon Massif and Horseshoe Ridge.
Once you reach the summit, you will find the Hafod Eryri Visitor Centre, which offers refreshments, toilets and shelter. The summit also provides panoramic views of Snowdonia National Park, stretching out to Anglesey and the Irish Sea on clear days – a true paradise for photo lovers!
Retrace your steps along the Llanberis Path or choose an alternative descent route, such as the Miners’ Track, to return to Llanberis. It can help create a more varied experience if you do not want to go down the same route.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Llanberis Path walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
5- Llyn Dinas
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 1.7 miles (2.8 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 1 to 2 hours
📈 Grade: easy and short lakeshore walk
📍 Start point: Llyn Dinas Car Park
Llyn Dinas is a beautiful lake located in Snowdonia National Park, surrounded by stunning scenery, making it a popular destination for low-level and gentle hikes.
You will find there a pleasant circular walk that will take you around the lake, which is relatively easy and offers breathtaking views, perfect if you are short on time and do not want to climb a peak.
The lakeside trail provides a peaceful and scenic stroll where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the lake and its surroundings.
The walk usually starts at one of the car parks near Llyn Dinas. As you walk along the shores of the lake, you will have the opportunity to appreciate its clear waters and the picturesque landscape that encircles it, as it is often framed by mountains – so do not forget your camera!
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Llyn Dinas walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
6- Llyn Crafnant
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 3.1 miles (5 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 1 to 2 hours
📈 Grade: easy and short lakeshore walk
📍 Start point: Llyn Crafnant Car Park
Llyn Crafnant is a captivating lake located in Snowdonia National Park, where you will find a popular flat and circular walk which takes you around, offering beautiful views of the water and the surrounding mountains.
The circuit is an easy and dog-friendly walk and an ideal destination for hikers of all abilities. It is an excellent path to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the natural beauty of Snowdonia without tackling more challenging mountain routes.
The walk often starts at the car park near the village of Trefriw. Begin by following the trail along the Llyn Crafnant shoreline. You will be treated to picturesque views, making it an ideal tranquil and scenic walk in summer or winter.
Continue following the trail around the lake, enjoying the serene beauty of the area as you stroll through woodlands, where you may encounter streams and bridges along the way.
As you continue, you will also join a road section and come across a café open only in summer, which provides a perfect opportunity to refresh yourself on a well-deserved break.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Llyn Crafnant walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
7- Betws-y-coed Bridges
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 2.2 miles (3.6 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 1 hour
📈 Grade: easy woodland and riverside walk
📍 Start point: Betws-y-coed
Betws-y-Coed is a picturesque village located in Snowdonia National Park, offering a variety of walking opportunities for visitors to explore its natural beauty and charming scenery.
You will find there a short circular walk taking you through beautiful woods along the banks of the Llugwy River, which is fairly easy and
can be an excellent family-friendly expedition, with lovely picnic spots.
The walk often begins in the centre of Betws-y-Coed. Start by crossing the historic Pont-y-Pair Bridge, which spans the Llugwy River. It is a famous landmark and provides beautiful views of the river and the village.
Continue along the river through the woodland to the Miners’ Bridge. Cross the bridge and turn left onto the main road to return to Betws-y-Coed.
If you are looking for a longer hike, here are two options:
You can continue your walk along the river to Swallow Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in Wales. The path will take you through the lovely Gwydir Forest, where you can visit Swallow Falls and enjoy the sight and sound of the waterfall.
Or continue your walk by heading to Llyn Elsi, a beautiful reservoir above the village. The path to Llyn Elsi offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, and once there, you can take a break by the water and enjoy its tranquillity.
Finally, once back in Betws-y-Coed, take time to explore the village, visit the local shops, enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants or cafés, or relax by the river.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Betws-y-Coed walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
8- Aber Falls
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 2 to 3 hours
📈 Grade: easy walk with gentle uphill walking
📍 Start point: Bont Newydd Car Park
The Aber Falls circular walk is a popular hiking route taking you to Aber Falls, one of the most famous and picturesque waterfalls in North Wales, located near the village of Abergwyngregyn.
This beginner-friendly walk is easy and accessible for hikers of varying levels, including families with children. It is a fantastic trail to enjoy the beauty of the falls and the surrounding countryside without too much effort.
The walk usually starts at the Bont Newydd Car Park near the village of Abergwyngregyn. Begin by following the well-marked trail to Aber Falls. This path is well-maintained and guides you through a lovely forested area.
When you arrive at Aber Falls, take the time to appreciate the impressive waterfall, which plunges approximately 37 meters. It is a great place to relax, take photos and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
To complete the circular walk, follow the path that takes you around the back of the waterfall and continues through the valley. This part of the trail provides different viewing angles of the falls and beautiful viewpoints of the surrounding landscape.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Aber Falls walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
9- Precipice Walk
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 3.1 miles (5 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 2 hours
📈 Grade: moderate walk with gentle uphill walking
📍 Start point: Saith Groesffordd Car Park
The Precipice Walk is a popular and scenic circular trail, known for its stunning views of the Mawddach Estuary, Cadair Idris and the surrounding countryside. It offers hikers a fairly easy and enjoyable route to discover the beauty of the Snowdonia region.
Although this walk is considered moderate with some uphill sections, it is generally suitable for hikers of various fitness levels, making it an excellent choice if you are looking for beautiful viewpoints and a relatively straightforward hike in Snowdonia National Park.
The walk often begins at the Saith Groesffordd Car Park. Start by following the trail through a forested area and along the ridge of a hill.
As you progress along the path, you will reach a point where you can see the Cadair Idris mountain range, which is one of the most prominent peaks in Wales. The view is breathtaking and worth a stop to admire the scenery.
The walk continues along the ridge before looping back to the starting point, creating a circular route, meaning you will be able to enjoy the stunning views both on the way there and back. And if you have time, you can also explore the nearby town of Dolgellau, a lovely market town.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Precipice walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
10- Rhaeadr Ddu
🚶🏻♀️ Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
⏰ Estimated time: 1 to 2 hours
📈 Grade: easy riverside walk with some rocky sections
📍 Start point: Dolmelynllyn Car Park
The Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd walk is a scenic circular route in Snowdonia taking you through the beautiful Coed Ganllwyd Nature Reserve and offering stunning views of the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall.
This flat walk provides a chance to explore the natural beauty of Snowdonia at your own pace and in a tranquil setting. It is also the perfect place for nature lovers, as the Coed Ganllwyd Nature Reserve is known for its plant and wildlife diversity, and the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall (Black Falls) is a hidden gem worth discovering.
The walk usually starts at the Dolmelynllyn Car Park located near the village of Ganllwyd. Begin by walking along the River Gamlan towards Rhaeadr Ddu, a beautiful and secluded waterfall nestled in the woods, creating a serene setting. However, be careful in this section as the rocks can be slippery.
After visiting the waterfall, continue on a circular path which will take you through the Coed Ganllwyd Nature Reserve where you will have the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful woodlands, breathe in the fresh air and maybe spot some wildlife along the way.
🧭 Read the full trail route.
Rhaeadr Ddu and Coed Ganllwyd walking route – MAP
Click on the map for more details.
Planning a hiking trip in the Lake District? Check out this article:
10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in The Lake District
Preparing for a walk in Snowdonia
Sustainable hiking tips
Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.
Here are some tips to minimise your carbon footprint when hiking in Snowdonia National Park, which apply to short walks and beginner hikes too:
- Choose your route carefully and in advance: avoid areas suffering from overtourism and hike off-season if possible to protect the environment and support the locals.
- Stick to pre-existing trails: minimise path erosion damage by staying on the main route. It is tempting to wander, but it will also endanger the local ecosystem. So do not use shortcuts.
- Avoid making a fire: if you do, check that making fires is allowed on the land you are exploring and always consider your surroundings first, especially in summer when the terrain is dry.
- Use a filtered water bottle: avoid single-use plastic water bottles and prioritise reusable ones such as this UltraPress Water Purifier. You can refill it anywhere from lake to river for staying hydrated on the go.
- Wear eco-friendly sunscreen: be sure to consider which sunscreen you use, as most commercial creams contain chemicals harmful to the environment and marine life. So choose zero-waste and natural sunscreens.
- Do not leave a trace: do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take biodegradable bin bags with you.
- Respect wildlife: do not come close to wild animals and do not feed them! Please, be mindful, do not disturb their environment and remember that you are only a visitor in their home.
More inspiration for your green adventures:
- Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
- 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
- Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
Eco-friendly packing suggestions
The best way to explore Snowdonia National Park responsibly in any season and enjoy the outdoors is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you bring with you on a hike is essential.
Here are some eco-conscious clothing and gear ideas for a short and easy walk in Snowdonia:
- Boots: you will need good hiking shoes to keep your feet dry and comfortable, even for a beginner hike. Check out Merrell and La Sportiva – they have a whole line of vegan hiking shoes.
- Backpack: it is hard to go hiking without a good backpack. It is essential for any hike, no matter the level, and will last forever if you choose the right one. Check out Osprey and Lowe Alpine.
- Clothing: what you will wear will depend on the season and weather, but try to select sustainable and eco-friendly clothing that respects the environment. Check out Rab and North Face.
- Food containers: reusable containers are essential for packing your meals or snacks and reducing waste. Get a reusable meal kit, collapsible containers and bamboo cutleries to say goodbye to unwanted trash. Check out Bambaw and Light My Fire.
- Reusable water bottle: finally, stay hydrated on the go with a water bottle that contains a purifier filter. It will provide healthy and clean water anywhere you hike whilst avoiding waste and single-use plastic. Check out Grayl and Epic Water Filters.
Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.
Shop the editable packing list
Prepare for your hike and live an unforgettable adventure in Snowdonia!
Looking for more hiking inspiration? Check out this article:
10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in Northumberland
Wales travel planning guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Wales?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your hiking trip in Snowdonia stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.
💧 Can you drink the water in Wales?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Wales, including Snowdonia. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.
🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Wales?
Yes, renting a car in Wales is easy and is a great way to explore Snowdonia National Park freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.
🏨 How to book accommodation in Wales?
The best way to book your accommodation in Wales and Snowdonia is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.
✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Wales?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.
Snowdonia easy walks – FAQ
Yes, there are plenty of easy and flat walks in Snowdonia National Park, perfect for beginners seeking epic views without much effort! You will not have to hike high peaks to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and viewpoints.
The best way to climb up Snowdon with kids is by following the Llanberis Path. This trail is considered one of the least challenging routes to the summit and the most accessible, including to beginners and families with children.
The Llanberis Path is the longest of the 6 main routes, but also the easiest walking route up Snowdon and the least steep. It will take you around 6 hours there and back, making it a perfect hike for a day out.
And you, what is your favourite easy and flat walk in Snowdonia?
Let me know in the comments below!
With love ♡
Lucie
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