Snowdonia National Park draws me back, time and time again. But what is it about the place that creates such a sense of excitement and wonder? In this blog, I explore some of my favourite hikes and alternatives to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
Views for days and trails that disappear into the clouds… Snowdonia has long been a retreat for me. Just a short drive away from my home in Cheshire, it’s been the backdrop to countless weekend escapes in the van.
With early mornings, well worn boots, and that deep sense of satisfaction only a day on the mountains can bring, it’s easy to see why Snowdonia keeps pulling me back. This wild corner of Wales offers a kind of magic that awakens the soul.
Here are some of my favourite Snowdonia hikes, opting for routes to escape the crowds of Snowdon, find new perspectives, and a little bit of adventure.
Moel Siabod
Moel Siabod is one of Snowdonia’s best kept secrets. Rising above Capel Curig, this solitary summit offers breathtaking views of the Snowdon Horseshoe. The ascent treats you to a variety of landscapes: shaded forest trails, thrilling ridge lines, and the satisfying feeling of being truly immersed in nature.
I’ve returned to this route time after time, and it never fails to impress. The views as you climb are nothing short of breathtaking, and that sense of accomplishment at the end of the day is the kind that stays with you, leaving you feeling content and already dreaming of the next adventure.
🗺️ Route Overview
Route: Capel Curig → Forest Track → Llyn y Foel → Daear Ddu Ridge → Summit → Return via same or alternative path
Distance: ~9.5 km (6 miles)
Time: 3.5 to 5 hours depending on route and pace
Grade: Moderate to challenging (especially if tackling the Daear Ddu ridge)
Best for: Hikers who want panoramic views and a quieter alternative to Snowdon
AllTrails: Moel Siabod Circular
The views are stunning! On a clear day, Snowdon, Tryfan, and the Glyderau stretch out before you in one spectacular panorama.
Mynydd Mawr
Tucked right in the heart of Snowdonia, Mynydd Mawr offers an off-the-beaten-track adventure for those wanting to escape the crowds.
This less travelled route rewards explorers with vast panoramas of shimmering lakes, endless valleys and even a glimpse of the sea. The climb is steady and not too strenuous, but you are rewarded at the top with unforgettable scenes. Perfect for reconnecting with nature’s beauty and enjoying a quiet summit moment away from the noise.
🗺️ Route Overview
Route: Start at Llyn Cwm Bychan car park → Follow the footpath along the lake → Ascend the north ridge → Summit → Return the same way or via alternate paths
Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles)
Time: Around 4 to 5 hours
Grade: Moderate — steady climbs with some rocky sections
Best for: Hikers looking for solitude, stunning lake views, and panoramic mountain scenery
AllTrails: Mynydd Mawr
Llyn Dinas
Nestled beneath towering peaks, the Llyn Dinas circular trail offers a wonderful blend of tranquil waters and wild mountain landscapes. Make sure to stop in the picturesque town of Beddgelert, where there are craft shops and tearooms to delight the soul!
This moderate loop winds around the peaceful lake, through leafy woods, and across open moorland, providing a refreshing mix of landscapes. Whether you’re after a relaxed day out or a rewarding challenge, this route combines calm lake views, wild terrain, and sweeping vistas for an unforgettable hike.
On a warm summer’s day, it’s possible to take a dip in one of many infinity pools on the Watkin’s path. Don’t forget to bring a towel!
🗺️ Route Overview
Route: Llyn Dinas car park → Lakeside trails → Woodland paths → Moorland ascent and ridge walk → Return via lake edge
Distance: Approx. 16 km (10 miles)
Time: 5 to 6 hours
Grade: Moderate to challenging — mix of gentle walking, steady climbs, and some rocky terrain
Best for: Experienced walkers seeking a full-day hike with diverse scenery and panoramic views
AllTrails: Llyn Dinas
Glyder Fawr & Castell-Y-Gwynt
For a truly exhilarating day out, tackle the Y Garn, Glyder Fawr & Castell-y-Gwynt Glyder circular. Often overlooked due to it’s proximity to Tryfan, this route is as varied as it is spectacular.
From the panoramic views at Glyder Fawr’s summit to the striking rock formations of Castell-y-Gwynt, every moment delivers inspiration and a sense of achievement.
The unusual landscape makes for fantastic photo opportunities, so make sure you have enough battery for all the photo shoots!
🗺️ Route Overview
Route: Start at Pen-y-Pass car park → Ascend Y Garn → Traverse Glyder Fawr → Explore Castell-y-Gwynt pinnacles → Loop back via Glyder Fach → Return to Pen-y-Pass
Distance: Approximately 13 km (8 miles)
Time: 5 to 7 hours depending on pace and breaks
Grade: Challenging — steep climbs, rocky scrambles, and exposed sections requiring sure-footedness
Best for: Experienced hikers seeking a demanding and scenic mountain adventure with breathtaking panoramas
AllTrails: Glyder Fawr, Castell Y Gwynt, and Glyder Fach Circular
Llyn Crafnant
Discover a stunning circular route linking three of Snowdonia’s scenic treasures: Llyn Crafnant, Crimpiau, and Llyn Geirionydd. This varied trail offers tranquil lakeside walks, peaceful forest stretches, and invigorating hill climbs, rewarding you with sweeping mountain panoramas and a genuine sense of wilderness.
Ideal for a day trip that balances calm with challenge, this hike reveals the rich diversity of Snowdonia’s landscapes in one unforgettable journey.
Don’t forget to pop into the Lakeside cafe for a brew and a slice of cake whilst admiring the serenity of the area.
🗺️ Route Overview
Route: Start at Llyn Crafnant car park → Follow lakeside path to Crimpiau ascent → Ridge walk with panoramic views → Descend towards Llyn Geirionydd → Return via forest trails to Llyn Crafnant
Distance: Approx. 15 km (9.3 miles)
Time: 5 to 6 hours
Grade: Moderate — includes steady climbs, some rocky sections, and varied terrain
Best for: Experienced walkers looking for a rewarding circular hike with lakes, hills, and woodland
AllTrails: Llyn Crafnant, Crimpiau, and Llyn Geirionydd Circular
Whether you’re chasing panoramic peaks or wandering quiet lakeside trails, Snowdonia offers more than just epic scenery. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with yourself.
These hikes are just a few of the reasons I keep coming back, each one offering a fresh dose of perspective and wonder. So lace up your boots, follow your curiosity, and don’t be afraid to take the path less crowded — adventure is waiting.
Live Laugh Love ✌🏼