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Best scenic routes hikes in Wales
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Best scenic routes hikes in Wales

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Wales.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Welsh 3000s (Precision Traverse)

Gwynedd, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 45.0 km · Est. 3 day

2

Difficult

Nantlle Ridge

Gwynedd, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 13.0 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

3

Medium

Hiraethog Trail

Conwy, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 68.1 km · Est. 4 day

4

Extra Difficult

Tryfan (North Ridge Scramble)

Conwy, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 4.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 13 min

5

Difficult

Snowdon Horseshoe (Crib Goch Scramble)

Gwynedd, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 11.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 55 min

6

Medium

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 1 (Pentrefoelas to Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr)

Conwy, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 26.4 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

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Reviews for scenic routes hikes in Wales

Jacob Richmond avatar

Welsh 3000s (Precision Traverse)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 6 days ago

star star star star star

The definitive Welsh 3000s traverse. This verified route follows the classic line starting at Pen y Pass, tackling the famous Crib Goch ridge first, crossing the rocky Glyderau, and finishing on the remote slopes of the Carneddau above Aber Falls. It’s a massive 50km endurance challenge covering 14 summits. While we often use a Bethesda finish on our guided events for logistics, this GPX represents the 'Gold Standard' traditional route. A true test of mountain fitness.

Jacob Richmond avatar

Nantlle Ridge

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 6 days ago

star star star star star

One of the finest ridge walks in Wales, often quieter than most other mountain ranges in Eryri (Snowdonia). This route covers the full traverse including the scramble on Mynydd Drws-y-Coed. Navigation off Mynydd Graig Goch can be tricky in fog, trust the GPX here to find the descent towards Llyn Cwm Dulyn and Nebo. A stunning day out.

Jacob Richmond avatar

Hiraethog Trail

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 6 days ago

star star star star star

The official verified line for the Hiraethog Trail 70k. This is a serious endurance challenge that requires good navigation skills on all sections. Our August 2025 team set a new (and first - we think!) FKT for the route in 17 hours and 16 minutes. Challengers to the FKT are welcome!

Jacob Richmond avatar

Tryfan (North Ridge Scramble)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 6 days ago

star star star star star

The definitive Grade 1 scrambling line up the North Ridge. This verified route sticks to the crest once above the shoulder for the best rock and avoids the loose paths on the East face that catch many walkers out. A serious route requiring good head for heights and route-finding skills. In wet or windy conditions, the difficulty increases significantly.

Jacob Richmond avatar

Snowdon Horseshoe (Crib Goch Scramble)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 6 days ago

star star star star star

The classic Eryri ridgeline. Can we give it 6 stars?! This file follows the true line on the ground. Critical note: This is Grade 1 scrambling terrain with extreme exposure. Navigation is usually visual, but in cloud, sticking to the verified line is essential to avoid wandering onto the dangerous flanks. Not a place for novices without professional leadership.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Wales

What is the climate like for hiking in Wales?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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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