Roam Free with M&G

Join us on a captivating adventure through the heart of Snowdonia. This hike takes you along the serene Llyn Padarn, through the fascinating Dinorwic Slate Quarry, and past the historic Dolbadarn Castle. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike, this trail promises stunning views and a touch of Welsh heritage. Lace-up your hiking boots, and let’s explore!

The highlights of this hike feature the stunning, glacially formed Llyn Padarn lake. Stroll through the historic Dinorwic Slate Quarry, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uncover the charm of the Anglesey Barracks, and conclude your journey with breathtaking views from the 12th-century Dolbadarn Castle. Along the way, keep an eye out for the gorgeous wildlife that roam this beautiful area.

We started this walk at Y Glyn motorhome & campervan aire parking lot, leave the parking lot and follow the path along the foot path along the road (A4086). Once you find the the large sword near the lake shore follow the gravel path along the lake, which will soon take you to a grass field. Continue following the path along side of the lake and you will soon reach a little footbridge. At this point you could continue along the gravel path, under the railway, and up the hill to Dolbadarn Castle. Once you’ve spent some time walking around the ruins and taking in the view, head back down the hill and turn right down the road towards the quarry. At a small roundabout, you can take a little detour to the left to visit the National Slate Museum, if you wish, or turn to your right to continue on this walk. You’ll past a small brick building and find the start of a walled slate staircase and climb the stairs all the way to the top. This path will take you to the ruins of the Anglesey Barracks (These cottages were built in the 1870s as housing for quarrymen who lived too far away to return home each night.) After exploring the ruins you continue the hike straight up the old slate railway line until you reach Dinorwig Slate Quarry and you can walk out towards Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point.

After enjoying some time at the viewpoint, continue the walk past the large ruined quarry building, following the gravel path till you reach a small carpark. Continue straight and stay on Minffordd (Road) until you reach the Dinorwig Hostel and then turn left along the narrow laneway immediately after. Stay and follow this lane for almost 1 mile and look for a trail signpost which will be on your right. As you follow this path climbing uphill through the woods, you will reach a path that guides you between two stone farm walls. Continue west along this path until you come across more stone ruins of a farmhouse and stock yards; keep an eye out for lambs if you are doing this hike during the spring. Follow the obvious path in the grass until you reach a fork in the road, take the the left path and follow as it joins a farm track.

Around 30 metres after passing a track on your right you will see a walking track on your left, follow this path down to the road, turning right onto this road and then left onto the main road. Follow the road and cross the Brynrefail Bridge, then continue walking along the edge of the lake until you reach the A4086. If you backtrack west along the path next to the A road, you’ll find a crossing where you can join the Lon Las Peris path. Continue on this path which will lead you back to your car.

Keep an eye out for the ‘Lonely Tree’ near the start/end of your hike which has became a popular photography location.

Things to know before you go:

Distance: 12km Duration: 4-5hrs depending on your fitness level. Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult What to bring & wear: Sturding hiking shoes, waterproof gear especially in the colder months, a camera, snacks and water. Some parts of the trail can get overgrown, so make sure you bring a map and instructions with you.

The Llyn Padarn, Llanberis & Dinorwig Quarry Hike is a delightful mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a bit of adventure. You’ll start with the beautiful Llyn Padarn, enjoy views of Dolbadarn Castle, then explore the fascinating Dinorwic Slate Quarry and Anglesey Barracks, before a woodland and farmland walk.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun day out, this trail offers the perfect blend of scenery and stories. So, grab your gear, lace up your boots, and get ready to create some wonderful memories in the heart of Snowdonia! Happy hiking!

Have you ever hiked this trail? Share your favourite part of the hike in the comments below!