When it comes to the best places in Great Britain for hiking, Snowdonia is an area that springs to mind. This spectacular National Trust property in North Wales offers some of the most breathtaking vistas you’ll find anywhere in Britain. If you’re ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, read on for everything you need to know about walking the mountains of Snowdonia.
What is Snowdonia National Park?
The Snowdonia National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in North Wales. It’s an area of rugged mountainous landscapes, glacial lakes, and spectacular waterfalls. It’s home to the tallest mountain in Wales, Mount Snowdon, as well as the beautiful town of Conwy. The park offers a variety of activities for families, couples, and solo travellers of all ages and fitness levels. Visitors can explore the lakes and mountains by car, boat, or foot. In 1931, the British government designated a portion of North Wales as a national park. This was the first park of its kind in the United Kingdom. It was originally named the “National Park of the Great Orme” in 1931. It was renamed the “Snowdonia National Park” in 1951. The park covers an area of roughly 1,085 square kilometres. It stretches across the counties of Gwynedd and Conwy.
The best places to hike in Snowdonia
If you’re looking to explore Wales’ “wild” side, the best places to hike in Snowdonia are undoubtedly the high mountain areas that lie within the park. These include Mount Snowdon, Cwmorthin, Glyder Fawr, Glyder Fordd, and Tryfan. The Scafell range is also a great place to hike in Snowdonia. Mount Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales and the second highest in the British Isles after Scotland’s Ben Nevis. Snowdon is a particularly special place to hike in Snowdonia as it is the terminus of the famous Snowdon Hiker’s Trail. The trail is a long-distance footpath that runs from the town of Llanberis to the summit of Mount Snowdon, covering a distance of 10.5 miles (16.9 kilometres).
Ways to Stay Fit for Snowdonia Hiking
If you’re new to hiking and considering taking on a trek in the mountains of Snowdonia, it’s important to get in shape first. One of the best ways to stay fit for hiking in Snowdonia is to get out and walk as often as you can. You don’t necessarily have to walk long distances either; a hike through your local park is often enough to get you in shape for hiking in Snowdonia. Another great way to stay fit for hiking in Snowdonia is to incorporate weight training into your fitness routine. It’s important to remember that you don’t need to be a bodybuilder to walk in Snowdonia. A few simple exercises, such as squats and lunges, are enough to put you in great shape for hiking.
How to Prepare for a Hike in the Mountains of Snowdonia
If you’re planning on hiking in the mountains of Snowdonia, there are a few things you’ll want to do to prepare:
Research your chosen hiking trail - Planning your hike ahead of time will help you to avoid getting lost and will allow you to plan your trip more efficiently.
Pack the right gear - You’ll want to be sure to pack the right gear for a hike in the mountains of Snowdonia. Hikers who are new to the mountains should pay special attention to the weather, packing extra clothes and blankets in the event of rain or snow.
Get in shape - Hiking in the mountains of Snowdonia is no walk in the park. If you’re not in shape, you’re unlikely to enjoy the experience.
Snowdonia hiking trails: the 3 best routes
Ready to embark on a hike in the mountains of Snowdonia? The best routes for hiking in Snowdonia are as follows:
Snowdon Llanberis Path - The Snowdon Llanberis Path is a must-do hike in the mountains of Snowdonia. This footpath runs from the town of Llanberis to the summit of Wales’ highest mountain, covering a distance of 10.5 miles.
Glyder Fotdd Path - The Glyder Fotdd Path is a short, but beautiful hike in the mountains of Snowdonia. The trail is just under 3 miles long, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Llewelyn Path - The Llewelyn Path is another beautiful hike in the mountains of Snowdonia, perfect for those looking for a longer challenge. The trail is roughly 13 miles long and can be completed in either a single day or an overnighter.
Conclusion
Walking the mountains of Snowdonia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an adventure for the ages. If you’re looking for a challenging hike that will test your fitness and push you to your limits, this is certainly the place to go. With beautiful scenery and stunning views, Snowdonia is the perfect place to spend some quality time with yourself while exploring the great outdoors.