Aber Falls: Stunning Scenery, Soggy Mums, and a Dog-Friendly Adventure!

Rhaeadr Fawr (Aber Falls) Circular on AllTrails

 

Distance: 6.8km

ETA: 2.5 hours  

Elevation: 291m

 

Aber Falls, or Rhaeadr Fawr as it's known in Welsh, is a truly spectacular waterfall nestled in the foothills of the Snowdonia National Park. We ventured out to explore this natural wonder, and it was an adventure to remember – mostly for the right reasons! Let's just say it involved a slightly soggy mum, a very happy dog, and some breathtaking scenery.

 

This circular walk is a relatively short and accessible hike, making it perfect for families and those looking for a less strenuous but equally rewarding experience. The path winds its way through beautiful woodlands, alongside the Afon Goch (Red River), leading you to the magnificent Aber Falls.

 

Now, for the comedic highlight of our trip: my mum decided to join us on this hike… in jeans and trainers. Let's just say it wasn't the most practical attire for a waterfall walk, especially when said walk involves crossing streams. And, as you might have guessed, she ended up getting stuck! It was a hilarious moment (for everyone except maybe Mum!), and a valuable lesson learned: always wear appropriate footwear for hiking!

We opted to do the circular route anti-clockwise, and we were so glad we did. This direction meant we tackled the initial steep climb uphill, which, while challenging, was much easier than trying to descend it. The path can be quite exposed in sections, so it's definitely worth considering the weather conditions before you go.

 

Despite the soggy mum incident, the walk itself was absolutely stunning. The views along the way are breathtaking, and the waterfall itself is truly magnificent. Aber Falls cascades down a dramatic cliff face, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a truly magical scene. It's the perfect spot for photos and just appreciating the raw power and beauty of nature.

 

A few things to keep in mind when visiting Aber Falls:

  • Good Parking: There's a good-sized car park at the start of the trail.
  • Tight Roads: Be prepared for some very narrow country roads on the drive to the car park.
  • Anti-Clockwise Recommended: Tackle the steep section uphill for an easier experience.
  • Check the Weather: Essential, especially if you plan on crossing streams!
  • Wear Appropriate Footwear: Jeans and trainers are not recommended!
  • Dog-Friendly: A great walk for dogs, but keep them on leads where necessary.

Final thoughts:
Our trip to Aber Falls was a mix of stunning scenery, a hilarious mishap, and a wonderful day out in nature. It's a walk that offers something for everyone, from families with children to seasoned hikers. Just remember to wear appropriate footwear, check the weather forecast, and maybe leave the jeans at home!

©Copyright. All rights reserved.

We need your consent to load the translations

We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.