Tail-wagging trails through Wales’ most dramatic landscapes
Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) isn’t just for hardcore hillwalkers — it’s also a paradise for dogs and their humans. With everything from peaceful lakeside paths to lower-level mountain routes, you’ll find plenty of places where dogs can roam (on lead where needed), splash in streams, and sniff their way through some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery.
Here are some of the best dog-friendly walks in Snowdonia, including advice on terrain, access, and where you might want to bring a lead or avoid livestock.
1.
Llyn Padarn Circular, Llanberis
- Distance: ~5.5 km
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Start Point: Llanberis
- Why it’s great: A gentle loop around the lake with stunning views of Snowdon and the Dinorwig slate quarries. Plenty of water access for a paddle, and flat terrain under paw. Cafés in Llanberis often welcome dogs.
2.
Cwm Idwal, Ogwen Valley
- Distance: ~4 km
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Start Point: Ogwen Cottage
- Why it’s great: This scenic loop through a glacial bowl is short but dramatic. The well-maintained paths and clear lake are perfect for dogs — though sheep are common, so a lead is a must.
3.
Beddgelert & the Aberglaslyn Pass
- Distance: ~6 km circular
- Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Start Point: Beddgelert village
- Why it’s great: Wooded riversides, gentle paths, and the legend of Gelert the dog make this walk both meaningful and dog-friendly. A few narrow sections near the river require attention, but dogs love the woodland scents and shaded trails.
4.
Dinas Emrys & Nant Gwynant
- Distance: ~4 km
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Start Point: Craflwyn car park
- Why it’s great: A short climb to a historic hillfort steeped in Welsh legend. Dogs will enjoy the forest paths and streams, but leads are advisable for the summit sections and any grazing stock in the lower meadows.
5.
Coed y Brenin Forest Trails
- Distance: Variable (2–12 km)
- Start Point: Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre
- Why it’s great: A brilliant off-lead option. This forest park offers graded trails, plenty of water, and even a dog-friendly café. Ideal if you want a flexible walk without the worry of livestock.
6.
Llyn Dinas Circular
- Distance: ~5.5 km
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Start Point: Nantgwynant or Sygun Copper Mine
- Why it’s great: A scenic lake walk with rolling paths and water access. A few stiles and grazing areas mean leads may be required at times, but dogs love the terrain and regular swim stops.
7.
Precipice Walk, near Dolgellau
- Distance: ~5 km circular
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Start Point: Llanelltyd
- Why it’s great: Despite its name, this is a well-graded route with incredible views over the Mawddach Estuary. A great balance of exposure and safety — best kept on-lead due to cliffs and sheep.
🐶 Dog Walking Tips in Snowdonia
✅ Leads and control – Always keep dogs on lead near livestock or wildlife areas
✅ Water & snacks – Many routes have streams, but carry water in dry months
✅ Paw care – Slate, stone, and rough tracks can wear paws; check them post-walk
✅ Check for ticks – Especially in wooded and bracken-rich areas
✅ Dog-friendly cafés – Common in Beddgelert, Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed, and Dolgellau
From peaceful forests to iconic lakes and gentle hills, Snowdonia is packed with adventures you can share with your dog — just remember the countryside code and you’ll both be welcome back wherever you roam.
Photo credit: Wade Austin Ellis
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