Five North Wales walks among top seven winter walks in Wales

The hikes, all located in and around the region, have been ranked among the best in Wales in a new study by outdoor experts Blacks, which compared search volume, trail ratings, winter mentions in reviews and difficulty.

Topping the list is the Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) route via the Llanberis Path in Gwynedd, which earned a score of 8.12 out of 10.

Each trail was rated on winter popularity between December 2024 and February 2025.

The Yr Wyddfa route was followed by the Cadair Idris, Mynydd Moel, Craig Lwyd, and Tal-y-Llyn Circular trail, also in Gwynedd, with a score of 6.76 out of 10.

The Pen y Fan Horseshoe in Merthyr Tydfil came third with a score of 6.6.

Natalie Wolfenden, author and hiking enthusiast at Blacks, said: "Winter offers some of the UK’s most striking mountain and forest conditions, but it also places greater demands on kit choice and route planning.

"Rapidly changing weather, reduced daylight, and variable underfoot conditions mean winter hikes require a more disciplined approach than at other times of year.

"A robust layering system is essential, with moisture-wicking baselayers, effective mid-layers, and a dependable insulated jacket to manage exposure over longer distances.

"Walking poles can provide valuable stability on icy, compacted, or uneven terrain, particularly on steeper ascents and descents.

"In winter, preparation is critical.

"Earlier starts help maximise daylight, while close attention to forecasts and conditions at elevation can reduce risk.

"Carrying additional insulation, fuel, and hydration is recommended, especially on exposed routes where conditions can deteriorate quickly, and sticking to established lines is key when snow and ice make terrain less predictable."

Other top-rated walks include the Llyn Idwal Circular in Gwynedd, with an AllTrails rating of 4.8 out of 5.

The Moel Famau Circular in Denbighshire and the Rhaeadr Fawr Circular in Conwy also featured among North Wales’ highest-rated winter walks.

The Four Waterfalls Walk in Powys was the only other non-North Wales route to make the top seven.

The Cadair Idris circular route, spanning 6.5 miles, is described as a "6.5-mile horseshoe walk" passing through mountain scenery and wild swimming spots.

However, swimming is recommended only for experienced cold water swimmers during the winter months and with proper equipment.

The data highlights just how much North Wales has to offer and why it remains a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.