Ultralight Backpacking in Wales: Tips & Trails

Hiking in Wales: An ultralight backpacker in a national park enjoying a scenic view during sunset

In this post, we'll take a look at:

Wales presents a wealth of hiking and backpacking options suitable for all. With its varied landscape, clearly marked paths, and its proximity to stunning natural vistas, Wales serves as an ideal setting for adventurers with backpacks.

In this post, we delve into the world of ultralight backpacking in Wales, offering you the essential information for your upcoming journey.

Among other topics, we will outline the best 5 trails in two different categories: day hikes spanning fewer than 30 miles and multi-day trips with resupply options available at least every two days.

Key Tips for Backpacking in Wales

  • Wildlife: Wales is generally a safe place, yet it’s important to keep in mind that there are occasional sightings of venomous snakes, such as adders. It’s advisable to exercise caution when it comes to ticks, which can transmit diseases, and be ready to deal with bothersome midges, those irksome flies.
  • Wild camping: Wild camping in Wales requires landowner permission. However, Snowdonia National Park does allow wild camping if you adhere to specific guidelines and avoid established areas. In the Brecon Beacons National Park, certain landowners do permit wild camping.

Top 5 Day Hikes (Under 30 Miles)

Explore these superb day hikes, ideal for making the most of ultralight gear:

  1. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) via Llanberis Path (9.1 miles). See on AllTrails.
  2. Pen Y Fan Horseshoe (9.2 miles). See on AllTrails.
  3. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) Via Miners’ Track (8.1 miles). See on AllTrails.
  4. Y Garn via Devil’s Kitchen Circular (4.7 miles). See on AllTrails.
  5. Fan y Big, Cribyn, Pen y Fan, and Corn Du Circular (12.5 miles). See on AllTrails.

Top 5 Multi-Day Trips

Best multi-day journeys in Wales with resupply options every two days or less:

  1. Offa’s Dyke Path: Chepstow to Prestatyn (170 miles). See on AllTrails.
  2. Llwybr Llechi Eryri (Snowdonia Slate Trail) (91.2 miles). See on AllTrails.
  3. The Beacons Ways (99.5 miles). See on AllTrails.
  4. Snowdon Ultra 50 (46.3 miles). See on AllTrails.
  5. Cambrian Way (287.5 miles). See on AllTrails.

Annual Weather Averages

Prior to making your gear selection, review the historical annual weather data for Wales:

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F474750545963666663585248
Low °F393840434752555653494440
Rainy days1412111199101111141616
Note: This table is approximate; weather can change with altitude.
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