Ogwen Valley and Tryfan on the Snowdonia Way

The Snowdonia Way
A Low-Level Journey through the Heart of Snowdonia

Location: North West Wales
Distance: 156 km | 97 miles
Duration: 6-10 days
Start/Finish: Machynlleth to Conwy

The Snowdonia Way is a remarkable long-distance walking trail that carves a north–south path through the heart of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in Wales. Unlike the area’s more famous mountain scrambles, this 156km (97-mile) route offers a low-level alternative that showcases the region’s valleys, foothills, lakes, and cultural heritage—perfect for walkers who want to experience the magic of Snowdonia without climbing every peak.

Starting in Machynlleth in the south and ending in Conwy on the north coast, the Snowdonia Way is typically completed over 6 to 10 days. It follows a mix of country lanes, old drovers' roads, forest tracks, and moorland paths, making it an accessible but still rewarding challenge for seasoned walkers.

What sets the Snowdonia Way apart is its perspective: you’re always surrounded by the dramatic peaks - Cadair Idris, Tryfan, the Rhinogs and Snowdon itself - but you're threading your way beneath them. This gives a continuous sense of journey through the varied character of Wales: from the rugged isolation of the Dysynni Valley to the lush woodlands of Coed y Brenin, from slate-quarry towns echoing with industrial history to serene lakeside paths.

There’s also an optional high-level variant for those who want to add mountain stages, but the classic route keeps to manageable gradients and is well-marked throughout. Along the way, walkers will find charming villages, welcoming pubs, and plenty of places to stay, whether camping or in B&Bs.

For those seeking a quieter, more meditative way to explore one of Britain’s most iconic landscapes, the Snowdonia Way offers just the right blend of wild beauty, cultural richness, and long-distance reward - proof that you don’t need to summit a mountain to feel on top of the world.