Eryri National Park, widely known as Snowdonia in English, stands as a pristine natural region in northwest Wales. Stretching across over 800 square miles, it is one of the most expansive and ecologically diverse parks in the United Kingdom. With its mix of mountains, lakes, forests, rivers, and quiet villages, Eryri offers something for every type of traveler—hikers, photographers, outdoor lovers, and those simply looking to disconnect and find peace in nature.

This guide explores the best hiking areas, scenic routes, local experiences, and natural wonders within Eryri, with a focus on helping visitors plan a fulfilling trip free of distractions and fully immersed in the outdoor landscape.

Getting to Know the Park’s Landscape

The varied topography of Eryri is what gives it so much appeal. Visitors will encounter glacial valleys, cascading waterfalls, alpine ridges, and sprawling woodlands. The centerpiece is Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the tallest mountain in Wales, but beyond this well-known summit lies a network of quieter areas that offer equally stunning views and experiences.

Travelers can explore both rugged terrain and gentler, lowland walking paths. The park is crisscrossed by rivers, with lakes and estuaries providing serene spots for photography and wildlife viewing. The scenery changes dramatically with elevation and weather, and each part of the park offers a unique perspective.

Best Walking and Hiking Routes

Eryri is home to hundreds of walking trails, making it a major destination for hiking. These paths vary in difficulty, with both beginner-friendly and advanced options available. Yr Wyddfa remains the most famous peak, drawing visitors who wish to summit Wales’ highest point. Several routes lead to its peak, including the Llanberis Path, the Pyg Track, and the Rhyd Ddu Path. Each trail offers its terrain, level of challenge, and scenic rewards.

Beyond Yr Wyddfa, the Glyderau range offers dramatic ridge walks and panoramic mountain views. Cwm Idwal, a glacial cirque nestled between rugged peaks, provides an accessible yet visually impressive loop for walkers of all skill levels. The Cadair Idris range in the southern part of the park features one of Eryri’s most scenic climbs, leading to a summit with wide-reaching views of valleys and rivers below.

For gentler walks, the Mawddach Trail follows a former railway line alongside the Mawddach Estuary. This route is especially popular with cyclists and families, offering views of the hills without steep elevation gains.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

While much of Eryri is best explored on foot, its roadways offer spectacular views for those traveling by car. The drive through the Llanberis Pass is one of the most dramatic in Wales, with towering cliffs on either side and sharp turns that reveal mountain lakes and crags. Another scenic stretch lies between Capel Curig and Beddgelert, where rolling hills open up to vast green valleys and misty peaks in the distance.

The Ogwen Valley also offers excellent roadside viewpoints. Llyn Ogwen sits near the base of Tryfan and is a popular stop with photographers due to its mirror-like water surface and mountain reflections. These spots allow visitors to enjoy the landscape without needing to embark on longer hikes.

Quiet Lakes and Hidden Locations

Beyond the better-known lakes like Llyn Padarn and Llyn Llydaw, Eryri hides numerous lesser-known bodies of water that deliver tranquility and natural beauty. Llyn Dinas, not far from Beddgelert, is surrounded by walking paths and thick woodlands. Llyn Gwynant, while popular with campers, maintains a peaceful atmosphere, especially in the early morning or late evening.

In the southwest, Cregennan Lakes provide a perfect setting for those seeking solitude and sweeping views. Located above the Mawddach Estuary, they reflect the sky and surrounding hills beautifully, making them ideal for slower-paced exploration.

Waterfalls and Rivers

Waterfalls are another highlight of the Eryri landscape. Aber Falls, just above the village of Abergwyngregyn, is one of the most dramatic and accessible. The well-maintained path through a wooded valley leads visitors to the base of the fall, where water drops over a sheer rock face surrounded by greenery.

Swallow Falls, near Betws-y-Coed, is another frequently visited site. It’s easily viewed from roadside platforms and walkways, offering a rewarding stop on a longer route. In more remote areas, hidden streams tumble through mossy forest floors and rocky gorges, adding unexpected charm to quieter hiking trails.

Wildlife and Seasonal Beauty

Throughout the year, Eryri shifts in mood and color. Spring brings a renewal of green fields and blooming wildflowers, while summer offers lush hillsides and long daylight hours. Autumn turns the woodlands into a mix of gold, red, and brown, and winter, though colder, adds snow-dusted peaks and a sense of stillness.

Wildlife enthusiasts may spot mountain goats grazing on steep crags, especially in the areas around Llanberis and the Glyderau. Red kites and buzzards soar above the valleys, and otters are occasionally spotted in quieter rivers and estuaries. Songbirds fill the woods with sound in the early mornings, particularly during spring and early summer.

Accessibility and Public Transport

Though Eryri is a large and mostly rural area, it remains relatively accessible thanks to well-maintained roads and dedicated transport options. The Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus network connects many of the park’s popular trailheads, allowing visitors to complete point-to-point hikes without needing to reconsider by foot or car. This network is especially helpful for reducing congestion in high-traffic areas.

For travelers arriving by train, stations at Bangor, Betws-y-Coed, and Blaenau Ffestiniog provide convenient access points. From there, local buses and taxis can bring visitors into the heart of the park.

Parking can be limited in some areas during peak season. Early arrival is recommended, especially near popular routes. Park-and-ride options are available at some locations, helping reduce traffic and environmental impact.

Conclusion

Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park offers an immersive experience for anyone seeking raw nature, striking scenery, and thoughtful escape. Whether walking a well-worn trail to a summit, standing quietly by a lake, or exploring the lesser-known corners of this vast landscape, visitors will find the region deeply rewarding. With a bit of planning and a respectful approach, a trip to Eryri can leave lasting impressions and a strong connection to the beauty of the natural world.