Discover the best Snowdonia peaks near Betws-y-Coed. Explore nearby hikes, scenic summits and easy-to-reach mountains for your next trip.
If you’re staying in Betws-y-Coed, you’ve picked one of the best possible bases for hiking in Snowdonia.
You’ve got forests, rivers, and waterfalls right on your doorstep—but more importantly, you’re within easy reach of some of the best peaks in the park. No long drives, no complicated logistics—just pick a direction and you’re on the trail within 20–30 minutes.
Whether you’re after a quick half-day hike or a full mountain mission, there’s plenty within reach.
You’re right between multiple mountain ranges—Glyderau, Moelwynion, and more.
Everything from easy, grassy hills to more technical scrambles.
You can knock out several quality hikes without moving accommodation.
Parking, food, and accommodation are all sorted in one place.
For this guide, we’re talking about peaks that are:
Some are even close enough to feel like local hills—others give you that full mountain experience just a short drive away.
Height: 872m
Time: 4–6 hours
Route Type: Circular
Difficulty: Moderate
The closest “proper mountain” to Betws-y-Coed—and one of the best viewpoints in Snowdonia.
A steady climb that becomes rockier near the top, with some light scrambling depending on your route.
One of the best views of Yr Wyddfa, plus surrounding peaks and lakes.
Height: 689m
Time: 3–5 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back or circular
Difficulty: Moderate
Shorter hike with a big visual payoff—often called the “Welsh Matterhorn.”
A steady approach leading to a narrower ridge near the summit. Engaging, but not technical.
Wide views across Snowdonia, with Snowdon visible in the distance.
Height: 623m
Time: 2–4 hours
Route Type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
A quieter, lesser-known peak right above Betws-y-Coed.
Grassy, straightforward terrain with a steady climb—nothing technical.
Open views across the surrounding hills and valleys.
Height: 947m
Time: 4–6 hours
Route Type: Circular
Difficulty: Moderate
A bigger mountain day that’s still accessible from Betws-y-Coed.
A steady climb from Llyn Idwal leading to a broad ridge.
Llyn Idwal below, with dramatic Glyderau peaks surrounding you.
Height: 917m
Time: 4–6 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Challenging
One of the most iconic and hands-on mountains in Snowdonia.
A full scramble—hands-on from the start, with route-finding throughout.
Dramatic views across the Ogwen Valley and surrounding peaks.
Height: 726m
Time: 3–4 hours
Route Type: Circular or out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
A quieter alternative to Snowdon with big views for relatively low effort.
Grassy, steady climbing leading to a wide ridge.
Clear views of Snowdon and the surrounding landscape.
Day 1: Moel Siabod
A proper introduction with big views.
Day 2: Cnicht
Shorter day with a different perspective.
Day 3: Tryfan or Y Garn
Finish with something more challenging.
Popular routes fill up quickly—especially in good weather.
Distances are small, but roads can be slow and winding.
Weather can change fast—switch peaks if needed.
Always plan properly—even for shorter hikes.
Betws-y-Coed isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a gateway.
From here, you’ve got access to a mix of peaks that can fill a full weekend (or longer) with completely different kinds of mountain days, all without needing to constantly move around.
Track your hikes, log your summits, and build your list with Peaky Baggers.
Photo by Daniel Seßler on Unsplash
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