The best walks and hikes around Rhinog National Nature Reserve

The Rhinogs offer a wide range of difficulties. While there are over 60 easy walks in the lower valleys and surrounding woodlands, the reserve is famous for its challenging mountain terrain. The northern peaks, like Rhinog Fawr and Rhinog Fach, feature some of the most rugged, trackless ground in Wales, demanding excellent navigation skills and fitness. Many of the 27 difficult-rated routes involve steep ascents and scrambling over rocky ground.

Yes, there are gentler options suitable for families, particularly in the southern part of the range and the surrounding valleys. These walks tend to be on more established paths. A good example is the Llyn Hywel – Llyn Cwmhosan loop from Pentre Gwynfryn, a relatively short and manageable trail that still provides a fantastic sense of the landscape.

Parking is limited and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so an early start is recommended. For access to the southern Rhinogs, the car park at Ganllwyd, managed by the National Trust, is a well-regarded starting point with facilities. For routes on the western side, such as those starting near Llanbedr, there are small lay-bys and designated parking areas, but they have very limited capacity.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the Rhinog National Nature Reserve. However, it is essential to keep them under close control at all times, especially on a lead during lambing season (usually March-July). The area is home to free-roaming wild goats and grazing sheep, and the terrain can be challenging for dogs with steep, rocky sections.

The 'Roman Steps' is a famous historic path running through the heart of the Rhinogs. Despite the name, it's not Roman but a medieval packhorse route. It's made of large, rough stone slabs that create a challenging, uneven staircase. It offers a more defined, though still strenuous, route into the wilder parts of the reserve, passing between Rhinog Fawr and Rhinog Fach.

Absolutely, circular routes are very popular for exploring the Rhinogs without retracing your steps. There are many options, from short valley loops to full-day mountain circuits. For a moderately challenging day out that takes in the iconic pass between the two main peaks, consider the Rhinog Fawr and Bwlch Drws Ardudwy loop.

The reserve is a designated Special Area of Conservation. Keep an eye out for the herd of feral goats that roam the rocky slopes, which are a defining feature of the area. The upland heath is also a habitat for birds like the ring ouzel and northern wheatear, and if you're very lucky, you might spot a rare bird of prey like a merlin or peregrine falcon.

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential for the rugged and often boggy terrain. You must carry waterproof clothing, extra layers, and plenty of food and water. Due to the lack of clear paths on many routes, a physical map and compass, along with the knowledge to use them, are vital. A GPS device or phone with the komoot app is a great backup.

The Rhinogs are known as Eryri's wild heart for a reason. Compared to the more popular and crowded peaks like Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), this area offers a much greater sense of solitude and wilderness. The paths are less defined, the terrain is rougher, and it requires a higher degree of self-sufficiency. It's a destination for hikers seeking a true mountain challenge away from the crowds.

Yes, if you want to focus your efforts on reaching a specific peak, there are direct ascent routes available. The Rhinog Fawr ascent is a great example, providing a challenging out-and-back trail to the summit of this iconic mountain, offering superb views from the top.

The trails around Rhinog National Nature Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the sense of wildness and solitude. The rugged, challenging nature of the terrain is a common theme, with many highlighting the rewarding views and the satisfaction of navigating the untamed landscape.

There are over 180 hiking routes to explore around the Rhinog National Nature Reserve on komoot. These range from easy valley walks to extremely demanding multi-day traverses across the main ridge, offering something for many different levels of experience and ambition.