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Snowdonia National Park. The very name conjures up images of rugged mountains, serene landscapes, and trails that will test even the most seasoned hikers. And let's not forget about the sheep. Oh, the sheep. You'll see more of them than you ever thought possible. Snowdonia offers something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie looking for a scenic stroll.
Introduction
So, let's get started with our list of the top three hikes in the Snowdonia
First up, we have the Snowdon Horseshoe hike . If you're looking for a challenge, this is the hike for you. It's not for the faint of heart or weak of knee. The trail is steep and rocky, so you'll need to be prepared with the right equipment and lots of snacks. The mountain rises steeply from the surrounding landscape, its rugged slopes covered in scree and rocks. The peak is often shrouded in mist or clouds, giving it an ethereal quality that adds to its allure. Speaking of the top, the views from the summit of Snowdon are nothing short of incredible. But be warned, it can get pretty crowded up there.
Now, let's move on to Moel Siabod. This hike is a little less well-known than Snowdon Horseshoe, but that doesn't mean it's any less beautiful. The trail takes you to the summit of Moel Siabod, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a great hike for those who want to challenge themselves without going to the extreme. Plus, the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, so you won't have to worry about getting lost and accidentally stumbling into a sheep pen.
Finally, we have Aber Falls. This hike is perfect for those who want to see some of Snowdonia's natural beauty without doing a long, strenuous hike. The trail is only 2 miles long, so it's a great option for families with little ones or anyone who wants to take it easy. And the payoff at the end is worth it. Aber Falls is a 120-foot waterfall that's absolutely stunning and pretty chilly, even on a warm day.
For a more in detail description of each hike select your choice below
The Snowdon Horseshoe
The Snowdon horseshoe is a hiking route that is renowned for its breath-taking views, challenging terrain, and unforgettable experiences. This route takes you on a circular hike around Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Snowdon Horseshoe is one of the most challenging and iconic hiking routes in Snowdonia National Park, North Wales. It's a circular trail that takes hikers around the horseshoe-shaped ridge that surrounds the summit of Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, standing at 3,560 feet (1,085 meters).
The hike is a true test of endurance and skill, with steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and exposure to the elements. But for those who are up to the challenge, the rewards are well worth it. The views from the trail are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The trail starts at the Pen-y-Pass car park and follows a steep and rocky path up to the summit of Crib Goch, a narrow, knife-edge ridge that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The ridge requires careful scrambling and should only be attempted by experienced hikers with proper equipment and knowledge of mountain safety.
From Crib Goch, the trail continues along the ridge to the summits of Garnedd Ugain and Snowdon itself, before descending along the South Ridge to the stunning Llyn Llydaw, a crystal-clear mountain lake that is surrounded by rugged peaks. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some of the local wildlife, including wild goats and rare birds. and eventually back to Pen-y-Pass.
Along the way, hikers will encounter diverse landscapes, from rocky ridges to grassy slopes and even some boulder fields. They will also pass by several mountain lakes, including the tranquil Llyn Llydaw, which sits at the foot of Snowdon's towering cliffs.
Overall, the Snowdon Horseshoe is an exhilarating and challenging hike that is not for the faint of heart. But for those who are up to the challenge, it offers stunning views and a true sense of accomplishment. It's a must-do for any experienced hiker visiting Snowdonia National Park
2. Moel Siabod
Moel Siabod is a hiking route that will leave you feeling like a mountain conqueror. And let's be real, who doesn't love feeling like a badass conqueror of mountains? This route offers a perfect blend of challenge and reward, with stunning views
Moel Siabod is a mountain located in the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. Standing at a height of 2,861 feet (872 meters), it's not the tallest mountain in the area, but it's certainly one of the most iconic and beloved among hikers and mountaineers.
The Welsh name Moel Siabod translates to "shapely hill," which sounds like a bit of an understatement. I mean, this mountain is a beast! But let's go with it, shall we? We'll just pretend that the Welsh have a very different idea of what constitutes a "hill."
One of the unique features of Moel Siabod is its distinctive shape. It's a broad, flat-topped peak that looks almost like a mesa from certain angles. From a distance, it appears as a looming presence on the horizon, drawing you in with its rugged, wild beauty.
The trail to the summit of Moel Siabod is challenging, but not overly difficult for experienced hikers. The climb involves steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and some scrambling in places. But the rewards are well worth the effort. The views from the summit are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Along the way, you'll pass through diverse landscapes, from thick forests to open moorland and rocky outcroppings. You'll cross babbling streams, navigate through scree fields, and maybe even encounter some local wildlife like sheep, ponies, or even a mountain goat or two. You'll also encounter some quirky landmarks that add to the charm of the route. For example, there's a large boulder on the summit that's known as the "Arthur Stone," because legend has it that King Arthur himself used it as a stepping stone.
The summit of Moel Siabod is a place of wild beauty and tranquility. You can sit on the flat-topped peak and take in the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, or simply bask in the silence and solitude of the mountains.
Overall, Moel Siabod is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves hiking, mountaineering, and the great outdoors. Its rugged beauty and challenging trails make it a favorite among hikers and adventurers of all skill levels, while its unique shape and stunning views make it a true gem of Snowdonia National Park
3. Aber Falls
The Aber Falls hike is one of the best-kept secrets in Wales. Not because it's hidden or hard to find, but because it's so damn good that people want to keep it all to themselves. But lucky for you, I'm here to spill the beans on why this hike is a must-do for anyone who loves nature and waterfalls
Aber Falls is a majestic waterfall located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. The falls are around 120 feet tall and cascade down the rocks in a mesmerizing display of white water and spray. The water flows from a small river called the Afon Goch, which runs down from the slopes of the Carneddau mountain range.
The surrounding landscape is lush and green, with trees and shrubs lining the trail leading up to the falls. As you approach the falls, you'll hear the sound of rushing water growing louder and louder, until you're met with the awe-inspiring sight of the waterfall.
The rocks around the falls are slick with mist and spray, adding to the sense of drama and majesty. You can get quite close to the falls, although be prepared to get a little bit wet if the wind is blowing in your direction.
In addition to the falls themselves, there are plenty of other natural wonders to see on the hike, including babbling brooks, wildflowers, and even some fluffy white sheep grazing in the nearby fields.
Overall, Aber Falls is a stunning natural wonder that is not to be missed if you're visiting Snowdonia National Park. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the hike to the falls is well worth the effort