BETWS-Y-COED HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Three Peaks of the Carneddau: A Guided Mountain Day from Betws-y-Coed
A 7.5‑hour guided mountain hike that climbs three of Snowdonia’s highest summits, led by qualified local Mountain Leaders for fit hikers aged 13 and above.
Three Peaks of the Carneddau: A Guided Mountain Day from Betws-y-Coed.
This full‑day guided hike takes you into the Carneddau’s high ground to tackle rugged, unmarked mountain tracks and three of Snowdonia’s highest peaks, with expert navigation and local knowledge provided by qualified Mountain Leaders so you can concentrate on the terrain and the views.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Three Carneddau Summits
The day covers Pen yr Ole Wen (978 m), Carnedd Dafydd (1,044 m) and Carnedd Llewelyn (1,064 m), the latter named after a famous Welsh prince and among Wales’s highest peaks.
Qualified local Mountain Leaders
All guided hikes are led by fully qualified Mountain Leaders with deep local area knowledge; group sizes are controlled to a maximum ratio of 10 clients to one Mountain Leader.
Rugged, unmarked mountain tracks
Expect rough, rocky ground and navigational challenges—this is a step up from lowland hill walking and is best undertaken by those with good hiking fitness who want to leave route‑finding to the guides.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
It’s a long mountain day: a steady, often rocky ascent and ridge travel between high summits, punctuated by broad Snowdonia views and the reassurance of being guided by a leader who knows the area and handles navigation, including in poor visibility.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day works best for — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The guided day runs about 7.5 hours. Meeting is at 08:30 on the A5 in the Ogwen Valley (long straight section before Llyn Ogwen, layby parking available).
Sturdy mountain boots for ankle support, clothing layered to the forecast and season (base layer, fleece, waterproof shell and overtrousers as needed), warm hat and gloves, and a small rucksack for food and water.
All hikes are led by fully qualified Mountain Leaders with local area knowledge; maximum client to leader ratio is 10:1.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the hike?
The guided Carneddau mountain day is approximately 7.5 hours long.
Where and when do we meet?
Meet at 08:30 at the layby on the A5 in the Ogwen Valley (long straight section of road before Llyn Ogwen) where there is space to park.
Who leads the hike?
The day is led by fully qualified Mountain Leaders who live and work in the mountains of Snowdonia.
What is the maximum group size?
Maximum ratios on guided mountain hikes are 10 clients to 1 Mountain Leader.
Is there a minimum age or fitness level?
Participants must be aged 13 or above; the day is best suited to those with good hiking fitness prepared for rough, unmarked mountain terrain.
What should I wear and pack?
Wear sturdy mountain boots and seasonal layered clothing (base layer, fleece, waterproof shell and overtrousers as required); carry food, water, warm hat and gloves in a small rucksack—organizers can advise on clothing and footwear after booking.