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The still waters of Llyn Ogwen, reflecting snowy mountains
The still waters of Llyn Ogwen | © National Trust Images / Joe Cornish
Wales

Llyn Ogwen circular walk

Experience great views of Tryfan and the Glyderau mountains from this lakeshore trail without committing to a strenuous hike up to the summits of Eryri (Snowdonia).

Soggy ground and road walking

Please note that the first half of the walk can be very wet and boggy (especially in winter) while the second half returns along the main road.

Total steps: 5

Total steps: 5

Start point

Ogwen Cottage and Ranger Base, Nant Ffrancon, Bethesda, LL57 3LZ. Grid ref: SH 650603

Step 1

From Ogwen Cottage, cross the main road and turn left, cross the bridge then turn right over the stile (gap in the wall).

Rear view of a group of walkers on the pavement alongside a dry-stone wall, heading towards a stone building
Setting off on the trail | © National Trust

Step 2

Follow the river upstream to the lake by clambering over the large boulders, which can be quite challenging. It can be easy to lose the path here but keep heading for the lake and the path will become clearer with occasional waymarkers.

Step 3

Follow the lake shore and the waymarkers for half a mile before climbing a slight hill away from the lake. Cross the stile and continue.

Rear view of two walkers beside the lake at Llyn Ogwen on a crisp winter, with slopes ahead of them dusted with snow day
A great walk on a crisp winter day | © National Trust Images / Chris Lacey

Step 4

As you approach the farmhouse at the end of the lake, cross another stile then bear left towards the footbridge and follow the upper path, which avoids the farmyard then crosses a stile before dropping down to join the farm track.

Step 5

Follow this track away from the farmhouse until you reach the main road. Turn right and follow the pavement along the lake shore back to Ogwen Cottage.

End point

Ogwen Cottage and Ranger Base, Nant Ffrancon, Bethesda, LL57 3LZ. Grid ref: SH 650603

Trail map

Map of Llyn Ogwen circular walk
Map of Llyn Ogwen circular walk | © National Trust

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