‘But it’s vital if we want to protect the delicate upland habitats that make Snowdonia a special place for wildlife.
‘If there’s no path or it’s in poor condition, walkers inevitably stray onto the heather and vegetation. Then you’re left with bare patches of ground and that’s when the thuggish grasses start to move in – eventually strangling out the more delicate plants such as purple saxifrage, moss campion and roseroot.
‘We are asking all those who admire and enjoy the beauty of Snowdonia to help us repair the paths that will keep Snowdonia looking spectacular for many years to come.’
The £250,000 will enable National Trust rangers and volunteers to:
- Repair and upgrade two and a half miles of paths in Snowdonia (on average it costs £180 to build just one metre of footpath)
- Protect Snowdonia’s delicate wildlife, such as the endangered Snowdon beetle, which thrive in upland heath.
The appeal is supported by Snowdonia ambassador and actor Matthew Rhys.
The Americans and Edge of Love star, who hails from Cardiff but who has strong family connections to the area, said: ‘I still get swallowed up by the scenery and sounds of Snowdonia. From the legendary Llyn Dinas lake to the great Snowdon summit across one of the most dramatic valleys in Wales, Nant Gwynant, I have a profound love for this place.
‘I have been involved with the National Trust's previous appeals in the area, such as for the acquisition of Llyndy Isaf for the nation and the introduction of the Llyndy scholarship.'