The main 'problem' with running in Snowdonia is that there are so many hills! In fact I think it is nearly impossible to run for 30-60 mins without climbing more than 100m. Of course you could run along the coastline, which is not as undulating as it is in other parts of Wales, and is often sunny, but then you miss out on beautiful rugged trails and heathland.
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| Incredible views across Northern Snowdonia |
The second 'problem' is whether I or you, as a mere mortal, can actually run up these hills, or whether we have to resort to power walking. Either way, you can rest assured that it won't take much to get the heart rate going if you go for a fast walking pace. (And I have to admit that I frequently walk when going for a run).
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| Smiling selfies are a must when running in such good weather in Snowdonia! |
One of my favourite places to run in Snowdonia is the Carneddau. Many folk will have seen Pen yr Ole Wen towering over them as they drive down the A5, practiced navigation on Crimpiau, or visited Aber Falls but there are some incredible trail running routes to be found as well. Below is a photo journal and brief description of two of my favourites.
Number 1: The Eastern Carneddau
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| Eastern Carneddau trail run |
From Capel Curig (park behind Pinnacle Cafe), up Crimpiau and along the tops of Craig Wen and Creigiau Gleision to Llyn Cowlyd Resevoir and back. For extra miles and less road at the end follow the leet west to the steep tarmac road and the old A5 (dashed red line on the map above).
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| Pleasantly runnable terrain heading to the peak on the RHS |
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| perfect single track to end the day with |
Number 2: The Southern Carneddau
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| Southern Carneddau trail running circuit (with variations) |
The Southern Carneddau circuit is a classic walk with some gentle grade 1 scrambling, but also makes a fantastic long run. The initial ascent up Pen yr Ole Wen is a good power walk (head up the southern ridge to really feel the heartache!). This is followed by pleasantly undulating route finding along the tops, where you can go as far as you like before heading back along the leet and old A5.
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| Incredible ridge running towards Pen yr Helgi Du - a bit more exciting in the snow |
The running is more technical than the Eastern Carneddau, but it is drier (when dry!), and has a more mountainous feel.
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| Looking back towards Carnedd Llewelyn |
I have yet to combine the Eastern and Southern Carneddau into one long run but when the snow melts this Spring it will be top of my list of outings.
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| Fantastic views towards the busier Glyderau mountains |
