If you want to enjoy the fresh outdoors with your furry companion in tow, look no further than Snowdonia. Boasting miles of incredible landscapes - with everything from dense woodland to open green fields - this slice of Welsh heaven has something for everyone and every dog. As one of the UK’s best places to visit for dog owners, we explore seven dog-friendly walks in Snowdonia you need to try.
Location: Gwynedd
Difficulty: Easy
Walk length: One mile
Terrain: Sign-posted walkways and grassy fields
Give your furry friend a little history lesson and follow in the footsteps of one of the area’s most famous hounds, Gelert. Owned by Prince Llywelyn in the 13th century, Gelert famously roamed the village of Beddgelert in Gwynedd until his tragic ending. Starting at the footbridge over the River Glaslyn, you’ll enjoy a short walk through country lanes, fields and guided paths before ending where you started. Some of the fields do have livestock in so you may need to keep your dog on a lead for a small part of the route.
Difficulty: Easy
Walk length: Four miles
Terrain: Waymarked path leading into a woodland route
Betws-y-Coed, a village in Conwy, is often called the ‘Gateway to Snowdonia’. Home to woodland, beautiful lakes and quaint villages, it’s the perfect place to explore for both humans and animals. Walk 30 minutes from the village, through a forest, and you’ll come to Llyn Elsi, a picture-perfect lake. Clearly marked from St Mary’s Church, the alpine terrain is ideal for stretching your legs - and paws. Plus, if you’re big into photography, you’re guaranteed to get just the shot here. Betws-y-Coed is also home to a few dog-friendly beaches which are ideal for exploring.
Difficulty: Hard
Walk length: Nine miles
Terrain: Long distance with a steady ascent but rather challenging
Looking to experience Snowdonia's National Park in all its glory? Your furry-legged friend doesn’t have to miss out either. Often regarded as one of the easier routes to Mount Snowdon’s peak, Llanberis Path runs parallel with the mountain railway for the most part. If you, or your companion, aren’t used to long distance walks, you might struggle though. This route boasts a 3,200-feet climb and towards the top, there’s a few rough rocks. If you’re looking for somewhere to stop off on the way back, the National Slate Museum offers a great history lesson and is close by.
Location: Gwynedd
Difficulty: Moderate
Walk length: Six miles
Terrain: A gentle sloping incline that is suitable for all abilities
Perfect for all ages - dog years and human - the Abergwyngregyn Circular Walk will see you meander up to the incredible hidden gem that is Rhaeadr Fawr waterfall. Keep your eye out for some of the wild animals that like to call this area of North Wales home, including the mountain ponies. There’s a gentle incline but it’s still suitable for all abilities. Plus, there’s plenty of pit stops along the way so everyone can refuel. Don’t forget to take your camera as the views here are incredible - like the Llyn Padarn, a glacially formed lake.
Location: Gwynedd
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
Walk length: Eight and a half miles
Terrain: A looped trail on flat ground
Starting at the lake at Cwm Bychan and then crossing the Roman Bridge, this gentle walk in Gwynedd consists of over eight miles of fantastic scenery and peaceful pathways. Rated as moderate, the walk is great for beginners as well as their four-legged companions. Plus, those who are experienced can also carry on dog walking to Trawsfynydd.
Location: Conwy
Difficulty: Easy
Walk length: One and a half miles
Terrain: Flat, sign-posted and good for all skill levels
Explore Conwy’s Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant, the home of Bishop William Morgan who translated the Bible into Welsh in 1588. The Cwm Wybrnant Circular Trail will see you adventure around lakeside walks and through the beautiful Welsh countryside with plenty of fun for your dog to sniff out. There’s also a number of activities along the way for those big kids amongst you.
Location: Llangollen
Difficulty: Moderate
Walk length: Six miles
Terrain: Easily navigable with a few steep hills
In search of breathtaking views, historic landmarks and some local wildlife? A walk along the Llangollen History Trail in Denbighshire is just the thing. Pass the Horseshoe Falls, Valle Crucis Abbey and Dina Bran Castle and allow your companion to head off in front, in search for the next path. There are a few steep hills and styles to navigate but other than that this gentle walk in Llangollen certainly won’t disappoint.
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