The best walks and hikes around Cerrigydrudion
4.3
(286)
1,559
hikers
49
hikes
Hiking around Cerrigydrudion offers diverse landscapes, including expansive forests, open moorland, and picturesque lakes. The region is characterized by rolling hills and upland scenery, providing varied terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include the large bodies of water at Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir, surrounded by mature woodlands and open spaces. This area provides a range of hiking experiences from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging routes through varied topography.
Best hiking trails around Cerrigydrudion
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.0
(4)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
52
hikers
3.45km
00:55
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
8.18km
02:12
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
hikers
11.2km
03:16
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(3)
32
hikers
16.9km
05:17
640m
640m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Cerrigydrudion
Tips from the Community
You can head back to llyn brenig before you get to the section as a short cut, this but is not to be missed. Flows really nice, cutting through some old forest before a fun section along the lake.
0
0
Though it was not a tough or technical ride, it did take me into territory I had never visited before and was a lovely antidote to the 'fleshpots' of Gwydir Forest or Coed-y-Brenin. Some lovely gentle singletrack, beautiful views and I didn't see another rider for the whole trip - although tbh I did set off at 08.30 on a Wednesday!!
1
0
Alwen Reservoir is the largest human-made lake in Wales and it makes for a lovely walk. There's a car park at its eastern end and the 6-mile (10 km) loop of the reservoir is wonderfully scenic and suitable for the whole family. The mixture of lake views, woodland and open moorland make it a real treat.
0
0
Llyn Brenig is located at the heart of the Mynydd Hiraethog and is a good base for outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, fishing and sailing. It is a great spot for a break off the bike and the area is surrounded by a network of footpaths and a number of way marked trails suitable for biking and walking, including the Brenig Trail. The Visitor Centre provides toilet facilities and a cafe.
2
0
Very pretty place. A historic bridge but unseen by many.
0
0
The views over Alwen Reservoir from this section along the northern shore are simply wonderful! You'll take them in if you follow the waymarked Alwen or Lakes Circular routes. You move between open views and between the trees, but both are pretty spectacular, especially at sunset.
1
0
The grand, ornate stone dam of Alwen Reservoir couldn't be more of a contrast to the neighbouring Llyn Brenig Dam. It's well worth taking a minute or two to take in this magnificent feat of engineering, that was completed in 1920. The reservoir here was built to provide drinking water for Liverpool and the Wirral.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Cerrigydrudion?
Cerrigydrudion offers a wide selection of routes, with over 50 hiking trails to explore. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks through diverse landscapes.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking routes in the area?
Yes, Cerrigydrudion has many options suitable for families and those looking for easier walks. For instance, the Clocaenog Forest loop from Brynhyfryd is an easy 2.1-mile trail that takes about 55 minutes, perfect for a gentle outing. The Alwen Reservoir also features sections that are suitable for all skill levels.
What kind of natural attractions can I see while hiking near Cerrigydrudion?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore large bodies of water like Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir, which are surrounded by forests and moorland. A short distance away, Conwy Falls offers a stunning waterfall cascading through a deep gorge, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Cerrigydrudion?
Yes, many trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Alwen Reservoir Bridge – Alwen Dam loop from Alwen Dam, which is a moderate 8.8-mile route offering scenic views around the reservoir.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails around Cerrigydrudion are dog-friendly, especially those through forests and open moorland. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock, wildlife habitats (like the osprey breeding grounds at Llyn Brenig), and in designated conservation areas. Please check local signage for specific restrictions.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Cerrigydrudion?
Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails. For routes around Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir, visitor centers often provide dedicated parking facilities. For example, the Alwen Reservoir – Bryn y Gors-goch loop starts from the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre Cafe, which has parking.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the hiking routes?
Yes, the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre is a central hub offering facilities including a cafe. This is a good starting point for many walks around the reservoirs. You can find more information about Llyn Brenig and its facilities at Visit Conwy.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Cerrigydrudion?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for hiking in Cerrigydrudion, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours. During this time, you might also spot rare breeding ospreys at Llyn Brenig. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter hikes can be rewarding but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Cerrigydrudion?
The hiking routes in Cerrigydrudion are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil lakeside paths of Alwen Reservoir to the mature woodlands of Clocaenog Forest, and the stunning upland scenery.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, the region offers more demanding routes. An example is the Carnedd y Filiast Summit loop from Capel Celyn, a difficult 10.5-mile trail with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience for experienced hikers.
Can I reach hiking trails in Cerrigydrudion using public transport?
While some local bus services operate in the wider region, direct public transport links to specific trailheads can be limited. It's often recommended to use a car to access many of the more remote starting points for hikes around Llyn Brenig, Alwen Reservoir, and Clocaenog Forest. Planning ahead is essential if relying on public transport.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest along the trails?
Beyond natural beauty, the area has historical significance. Bronze Age artifacts were discovered during the construction of Llyn Brenig, and nearby Iron Age hillforts like Penycloddiau and Moel Arthur in the Clwydian Range offer glimpses into ancient history. The Alwen Dam itself is also a notable man-made monument.
Most popular routes around Cerrigydrudion
Most popular attractions around Cerrigydrudion
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
