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Best long distance hikes in Wales
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Best long distance hikes in Wales

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Wales.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Welsh 3000s (Precision Traverse)

Gwynedd, Wales · star 5.0 (2) · 45.0 km · Est. 3 days

2

Medium

Hiraethog Trail

Conwy, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 68.1 km · Est. 4 days

3

Medium

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 1 (Pentrefoelas to Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr)

Conwy, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 26.4 km · Est. 2 days

4

Medium

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 2 (Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr to Cyffylliog)

Conwy, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 22.1 km · Est. 6 hrs 48 min

5

Easy

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 3 (Cyffylliog to Bodfari)

Denbighshire, Wales · star 5.0 (1) · 19.7 km · Est. 5 hrs 17 min

6

Easy

Hike from Niwbwrch to Newborough Forrest and Lighthouse

Gwynedd, Wales · star 5.0 (2) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 8 min

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Reviews for long distance hikes in Wales

Jacob Richmond avatar

Welsh 3000s (Precision Traverse)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

The definitive Welsh 3000s traverse. This verified route follows the classic line starting at Pen y Pass, tackling the famous Crib Goch ridge first, crossing the rocky Glyderau, and finishing on the remote slopes of the Carneddau above Aber Falls. It’s a massive 50km endurance challenge covering 14 summits. While we often use a Bethesda finish on our guided events for logistics, this GPX represents the 'Gold Standard' traditional route. A true test of mountain fitness.

Jacob Richmond avatar

Hiraethog Trail

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

The official verified line for the Hiraethog Trail 70k. This is a serious endurance challenge that requires good navigation skills on all sections. Our August 2025 team set a new (and first - we think!) FKT for the route in 17 hours and 16 minutes. Challengers to the FKT are welcome!

Jacob Richmond avatar

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 1 (Pentrefoelas to Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

A stunning start to the trail. Crossing the moorland slopes of Mwdwl Eithin rewards you with some of the best views in Denbighshire. Navigation is straightforward on the tracks, but keep an eye on the map when crossing the open farmland above Cerrigydrudion.

Jacob Richmond avatar

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 2 (Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr to Cyffylliog)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

The solitude in Clocaenog Forest is unmatched. The fire roads make for fast walking, but the network is complex—trust the verified line here. A great contrast to the open moors of Stage 1.

Jacob Richmond avatar

Hiraethog Trail - Stage 3 (Cyffylliog to Bodfari)

Jacob @ Mountain Craft · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

A faster, greener finish to the route. The drop into the Vale of Clwyd offers welcome relief for tired legs. The link-up with Offa's Dyke at Bodfari is the perfect end to the journey. Tarmac alternatives are possible in the later stages of this leg if necessary.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Wales

What is the climate like for hiking in Wales?

In Wales, winter (December-February) presents colder, wetter conditions and fewer daylight hours, making hiking challenging. The mild spring (March-May) is a fine season for hiking with longer daylight and blossoming landscapes. Summer (June-August) offers the best conditions, while autumn (September-November) offers vibrant foliage. Find weather information here.

Do I need a permit to hike in Wales?

In Wales, public paths and rights of way typically don't require permits for hiking. For access to private lands or protected areas, contact the local authority or Natural Resources Wales. Obtain permits for national parks through their individual websites, like Snowdonia National Park.

Is wild camping allowed in Wales?

Wild camping in Wales is technically illegal without landowner's permission, but is often tolerated in higher fell areas if practiced responsibly. Be discreet, leave no trace, and camp only for a night. Check guidelines from the UK's Countryside Code.

Are there mountain rescue services in Wales?

In case of hiking emergencies in Wales, contact the local Mountain Rescue team via the UK emergency number, 999, then ask for 'Police', then 'Mountain Rescue'. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is the overarching organisation for local teams.

Are there dangerous plants in Wales?

While hiking in Wales, you'll encounter a variety of flora. The countryside blooms with heather, gorse, and bluebells, while the woodlands host a variety of mosses, lichens, and ferns. In Snowdonia, rare plants like the Snowdon lily are a treat. More information at Plantlife.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Wales?

In Wales, hikers may spot red kites, Welsh mountain ponies, and otters. Watch out for midges and ticks in warmer months, and take precautions against Lyme disease. Keep an eye on the skies for peregrine falcons in mountainous areas. For more information, visit RSPB.

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