Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park
Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park
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Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park
01:32
4.77km
200m
Hiking
Embark on the Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage, an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete, with an elevation gain of 658 feet (201 metres). You will experience a dramatic glacial landscape with rugged, rocky terrain and uneven paths. The trail offers spectacular views of the crystal-clear Llyn Idwal, nestled within Cwm Idwal, and is framed by towering peaks like Tryfan and Glyder Fawr. Keep an eye out for the prominent Idwal Slabs, popular with rock climbers, and cascading streams along the way.
Starting from Ogwen Cottage, this route is generally accessible for most fitness levels, providing a mountain experience without excessive physical effort. However, some sections are moderately strenuous with steep, rough mountain paths, especially as you gain height towards the southern end of the lake. Due to the stony and sometimes boggy ground, sturdy hiking boots are essential for sure-footedness, particularly after rain. The path is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
This area is home to Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve, Wales' first, renowned for its impressive ice-sculpted landscape and unique plant life. The crater-like Cwm Idwal is a result of significant geological activity, making it one of the best places to observe glacial aftermath in the National Park; Charles Darwin even conducted scientific work here. You can also see iconic features like the
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
67 m
Ogwen Visitor Centre and Snack Bar
Highlight • Parking
There are a number of facilities including toilets, disabled toilets, an information room, public wifi and a small kiosk selling hot and cold snacks.
From the visitor centre you can start a range of walks and climbs in the area. The most popular is the walk to Wales' first ever national nature reserve, the beautiful Cwm Idwal, a glacial lake with a mountainous backdrop.
(Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.01 km
Cwm Idwal
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.52 km
View of Llyn Idwal
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.48 km
Idwal Gorge
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Tip by
4.77 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.17 km
1.14 km
350 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.73 km
570 m
302 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Friday 17 July
22°C
7°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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