Snowdonia Slate Trail

Gwynedd, Wales

Snowdon by the Pyg and Miner's Tracks from Pen-y-pass

Gwynedd, Wales

Tryfan by the North Ridge from Ogwen Valley

Conwy, Wales

Cadair Idris from Minffordd

Gwynedd, Wales

North Wales Pilgrim's Way - Taith Pererin Gogledd Cymru

Flintshire, Wales

Beacons Way

Monmouthshire, Wales

Glyndŵr's Way

Powys, Wales

Moel Eilio and Moel Cynghorion from Llanberis

Gwynedd, Wales

Conwy Valley Way

Conwy, Wales

Snowdon via Watkin Path and Rhyd Ddu Path

Gwynedd, Wales

Best lake hikes in Wales

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Wales.

Most popular hikes

Medium

Snowdonia Slate Trail

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.8 (121) · 145.9 km · Est. 6 days

Difficult

Snowdon by the Pyg and Miner's Tracks from Pen-y-pass

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.7 (105) · 12.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 36 min

Extra difficult

Tryfan by the North Ridge from Ogwen Valley

Conwy, Wales · star 4.5 (55) · 3.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

Difficult

Cadair Idris from Minffordd

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.7 (62) · 9.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 23 min

Medium

North Wales Pilgrim's Way - Taith Pererin Gogledd Cymru

Flintshire, Wales · star 4.5 (60) · 220.9 km · Est. 9 days

Extra difficult

Beacons Way

Monmouthshire, Wales · star 4.6 (51) · 162.2 km · Est. 7 days

Medium

Glyndŵr's Way

Powys, Wales · star 4.4 (33) · 221.2 km · Est. 9 days

Easy

Moel Eilio and Moel Cynghorion from Llanberis

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.6 (44) · 15.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 36 min

Medium

Conwy Valley Way

Conwy, Wales · star 4.4 (38) · 151.7 km · Est. 7 days

Difficult

Snowdon via Watkin Path and Rhyd Ddu Path

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.6 (57) · 13.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 19 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in Wales

Snowdonia Slate Trail

Juls · reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Completed over five days in August 2021, mostly wildcamping with one night in a hostel. Occassionally moderate though not strenuous with no huge elevations. The Mignient Marshes should not be underestimated though, especially if it has been raining. A gem of a hike through the industrial and social history of a much loved area.

Snowdon by the Pyg and Miner's Tracks from Pen-y-pass

ScottR25 · reviewed 5 days ago

star star star star star

Tryfan by the North Ridge from Ogwen Valley

Robin · reviewed 19 days ago

star star star star star

Cadair Idris from Minffordd

amg61 · reviewed 2 months ago

star star star star star

North Wales Pilgrim's Way - Taith Pererin Gogledd Cymru

IanC · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Another cracker. Made better with resent spell of good weather. (Coastal path, not good in parts after prolonged rain)

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Wales

What is the climate like for hiking in Wales?

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In Wales, winter (December-February) presents colder, wetter conditions and fewer daylight hours, making hiking challenging. The mild spring (March-May) is a fine season for hiking with longer daylight and blossoming landscapes. Summer (June-August) offers the best conditions, while autumn (September-November) offers vibrant foliage. Find weather information here.

Do I need a permit to hike in Wales?

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In Wales, public paths and rights of way typically don't require permits for hiking. For access to private lands or protected areas, contact the local authority or Natural Resources Wales. Obtain permits for national parks through their individual websites, like Snowdonia National Park.

Is wild camping allowed in Wales?

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Wild camping in Wales is technically illegal without landowner's permission, but is often tolerated in higher fell areas if practiced responsibly. Be discreet, leave no trace, and camp only for a night. Check guidelines from the UK's Countryside Code.

Are there mountain rescue services in Wales?

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In case of hiking emergencies in Wales, contact the local Mountain Rescue team via the UK emergency number, 999, then ask for 'Police', then 'Mountain Rescue'. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is the overarching organisation for local teams.

Are there dangerous plants in Wales?

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While hiking in Wales, you'll encounter a variety of flora. The countryside blooms with heather, gorse, and bluebells, while the woodlands host a variety of mosses, lichens, and ferns. In Snowdonia, rare plants like the Snowdon lily are a treat. More information at Plantlife.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Wales?

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In Wales, hikers may spot red kites, Welsh mountain ponies, and otters. Watch out for midges and ticks in warmer months, and take precautions against Lyme disease. Keep an eye on the skies for peregrine falcons in mountainous areas. For more information, visit RSPB.

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