North Wales is one of the most rewarding regions in the UK to explore with a dog. Beyond the headline peaks, you’ll find rugged coastline, quiet valleys, forest trails and lesser-known mountain routes that are ideal for paws on the ground. This guide brings together a varied mix of dog friendly walks across North Wales, including Snowdonia alternatives, coastal paths and gentler countryside routes, giving you options whatever the weather or your dog’s energy levels.
Each walk below offers space to roam, rewarding scenery and practical access, making them ideal for real adventures rather than short urban strolls.
Aber Falls to the Foothills Loop (Abergwyngregyn)
Starting near the village of Abergwyngregyn, this walk heads past the famous Aber Falls before pushing further into quieter upland terrain. Once beyond the main waterfall viewpoint, the crowds thin quickly and the route opens into wide grassy tracks with views across the Menai Strait and Anglesey beyond.
The loop can be extended or shortened depending on conditions, making it a flexible option for confident dogs who enjoy open space. Sheep grazing is common in the upper sections, so lead control is essential at times, but there is plenty of scope for relaxed off lead walking once clear.
Distance: Approximately 6 to 8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Waterfall paths, open hillside, gravel tracks
Off lead potential: Partial
Parking: Aber Falls car park near Abergwyngregyn
Llyn Brenig Reservoir Circular Walk
Set high on the Denbigh Moors, Llyn Brenig offers a completely different feel to mountain walking. The wide circular path around the reservoir provides big skies, open views and easy going terrain that suits a steady pace in all seasons.
Dogs are welcome around the reservoir and the broad paths make this a good option for reactive dogs who prefer space. Wind exposure can be significant, so it is best on clear days, but the sense of scale makes this a rewarding walk year round.
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Gravel paths, open moorland
Off lead potential: Good in quieter sections
Parking: Llyn Brenig visitor centre car park
3. Coed y Brenin Forest Trail Loop
Coed y Brenin is best known for mountain biking, but it also offers excellent dog friendly walking routes through ancient woodland and alongside rivers. Choosing one of the quieter trail loops gives you a shaded, sheltered walk that works well in warmer weather or after heavy rain.
The forest setting keeps this walk feeling calm and immersive, with plenty of scent interest for dogs. Paths are well maintained, but leads are recommended near shared trail areas and road crossings.
Distance: 5 to 10 km depending on route
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Forest tracks, riverside paths
Off lead potential: Partial
Parking: Coed y Brenin visitor centre
4. Anglesey Coastal Path at Cemlyn Bay
Cemlyn Bay is one of Anglesey’s most striking coastal locations, combining shingle beach, lagoon and clifftop path. This section of the Anglesey Coastal Path offers dramatic views without steep climbs, making it accessible while still feeling wild.
Dogs are welcome year round, but wildlife sensitivity is high, especially around nesting birds, so leads are essential near the lagoon. Away from these areas, the clifftop path offers a refreshing, open walk with constant sea views.
Distance: Approximately 4 to 6 km
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Coastal paths, shingle beach
Off lead potential: Limited due to wildlife
Parking: Cemlyn Bay car park
5. Clwydian Range Moel Famau Circular
Moel Famau sits at the northern end of the Clwydian Range and provides a gentler mountain experience compared to Snowdonia’s higher peaks. The circular routes around the summit avoid the busiest direct ascent and offer rolling ridge walking with far reaching views.
This is an excellent introduction to hill walking for dogs who are comfortable on longer routes but do not need technical terrain. Expect wind exposure near the top and occasional livestock along the ridge.
Distance: Approximately 7 to 9 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Hill paths, open ridge
Off lead potential: Partial
Parking: Loggerheads Country Park or nearby laybys
6. Cwm Idwal Lower Valley Walk
While the higher Cwm Idwal routes are popular, the lower valley paths provide a quieter alternative with equally impressive scenery. This walk follows established paths through the valley floor, offering dramatic mountain backdrops without committing to a full high level route.
It is ideal for dogs that enjoy rocky ground and streams, but less ideal in icy conditions. Keeping to the lower paths avoids the crowds while still delivering a true Snowdonia atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Rocky paths, valley floor
Off lead potential: Limited due to terrain and livestock
Parking: Ogwen Cottage area car parks
7. Llyn Penmaenmawr Upland Loop
Above the coastal town of Penmaenmawr lies a network of old quarry tracks and upland paths that feel remote despite their proximity to the A55. This loop climbs steadily into open country, rewarding you with sweeping views along the North Wales coast.
The ground is rough in places, but the sense of space makes this ideal for confident dogs who enjoy longer, quieter walks. Weather can change quickly, so clear visibility days are best.
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Upland tracks, rocky paths
Off lead potential: Good with livestock awareness
Parking: Mountain road above Penmaenmawr
8. Newborough Forest and Llanddwyn Island
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This is one of the most iconic dog friendly walks in North Wales, combining forest trails, sandy paths and tidal island exploration. Starting in Newborough Forest, the route leads through pines before opening onto expansive beaches and views towards Snowdonia.
Dogs are welcome in the forest year round, with seasonal restrictions on parts of the beach during summer months. Outside peak season, this is an outstanding off lead adventure with huge variety in a single walk.
Distance: 6 to 10 km depending on route
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Forest tracks, sand, coastal paths
Off lead potential: Excellent outside restricted periods
Parking: Newborough Forest car park
Practical Advice for Walking in North Wales with Dogs
North Wales terrain changes quickly, so checking weather forecasts before heading out is essential. Even coastal and forest routes can become exposed or muddy after heavy rain. Carry water for your dog on upland routes where natural sources may be unreliable.
Livestock is common across hills and valleys, particularly sheep, so reliable recall or lead control is important. Coastal and forest routes often offer better off lead opportunities if this is a priority.
Finally, be mindful of seasonal restrictions on beaches and wildlife areas, especially during spring and summer.
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Explore these dog friendly walks across North Wales using our handy map below. Simply click the pins to unveil more information and directions.
This one has the lot: forest trails, dunes, wide beach, and a tidal island with bags of atmosphere. From the beach car park you can head through the pines first, then break out onto sand with Snowdonia’s silhouette often sitting on the horizon. It’s one of the best “variety walks” anywhere in North Wales.
Because you’re mixing forest and coast, it suits all kinds of dogs, from steady plodders to full-power sprinters. Do keep an eye on tide times if you’re heading onto the island, and be aware there can be seasonal restrictions on parts of the beach, so check local signage on arrival.
Distance: approx. 6 to 10 km (route dependent)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Forest tracks, dunes, beach, coastal paths
Off lead potential: Excellent in suitable areas
Parking: ANPR pay on exit
Penmaenmawr is a brilliant way to get height and coastal views in one hit. Starting right in town, you climb steadily onto higher ground where the landscape opens out and you get long views along the North Wales coastline. It feels adventurous without needing a full day in the mountains.
Once you gain elevation, the route has a more rugged, airy feel and it’s ideal on clear days when you want big scenery. Dogs that enjoy a climb and open space will love it, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for sheep on the higher sections.
Distance: approx. 8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Steady ascent, upland tracks, rocky stretches
Off lead potential: Partial with livestock awareness
Parking: Town car park
Cwm Idwal gives you that epic Snowdonia feel without committing to a full mountain route. From Ogwen, you’re quickly surrounded by dramatic rock faces and classic valley scenery, with a rugged path that stays mostly manageable if you keep to the lower lines.
It’s a great option for dogs that enjoy rocky ground and a bit of exploration, but it’s not a “switch off” stroll. The terrain can be uneven, and weather changes fast in this area, so good footwear and a sensible lead plan are important, especially if there’s livestock or heavy foot traffic.
Distance: approx. 5 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Rocky paths, valley floor, streams
Off lead potential: Limited
Parking: Can fill early, arrive early in peak periods
Moel Famau is a perfect “big views without big drama” hill day. Starting from Loggerheads, you warm up in the wooded valley before climbing into open hillside, where the views keep widening with every step. The summit area is famous for a reason, and it feels like a proper achievement without being technical.
This route works well for dogs that like a steady climb and plenty of open space, but expect other walkers on good-weather weekends. There can be livestock depending on your line, so it’s worth being prepared to clip on for sections.
Distance: approx. 7 to 9 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Woodland paths, hillside tracks, open ridge
Off lead potential: Partial
Parking: Pay & display
Cemlyn Bay is a rugged, wildlife-rich stretch of Anglesey coastline where the scenery does a lot of the work. From Bryn Aber car park you can follow coastal paths with sea views almost immediately, with the bay and lagoon creating a dramatic backdrop that feels properly wild.
This is a brilliant option if your dog loves coastal air and open horizons, but it’s also a place to be respectful. The area is sensitive for birds, and leads are strongly advised around the lagoon and nesting zones. Time it right and it’s one of the most memorable short coastal walks in North Wales.
Distance: approx. 4 to 6 km
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Coastal path, shingle, short rises
Off lead potential: Limited due to wildlife
Parking: Small car park, can be tidal
Coed y Brenin is one of the best woodland options in North Wales for a proper leg-stretch with your dog. Starting from the visitor centre, you can pick a loop that suits your time and energy, with well-marked trails through deep forest, occasional river sections, and a feeling of being properly tucked away from the world.
It’s especially useful when you want shelter from wind or strong sun, and the variety of smells and surfaces makes it a favourite for curious dogs. Some areas are shared with bikes, so it’s worth staying alert at junctions and keeping dogs close when you hear wheels approaching.
Distance: 5 to 10 km (choose your loop)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Forest tracks, riverside paths
Off lead potential: Partial
Parking: Large car park at visitor centre
Llyn Brenig is all about wide-open space and easy miles. The circular route starts from the visitor centre and quickly settles into a steady rhythm, with big skies, moorland views and a calm, expansive feel around the water. It’s a strong choice when you want scenery without steep climbs.
The paths are generally broad and forgiving underfoot, making it a solid year-round option, especially if you’ve had a wet spell elsewhere. It also suits dogs that prefer a bit of space to pass others, as there’s usually room to step aside and keep things calm.
Distance: approx. 9 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Gravel paths, reservoir edge, open moor
Off lead potential: Good in quieter sections
Parking: Pay & display
Aber Falls is a classic North Wales adventure that delivers quickly. You start on a steady, well-made track through the valley, with the sound of the river alongside you and the Carneddau rising ahead. The main waterfall viewpoint is the obvious highlight, and it’s a brilliant place to pause, reset, and let your dog soak up the scene.
If you want a quieter feel, keep going beyond the busy viewpoint into the more open foothills. The route begins to feel wilder and more spacious, with bigger views back towards the coast. Expect occasional livestock further on, so this is one where lead control matters, but you’ll still find calm stretches where dogs can relax into the walk.
Distance: approx. 6 to 8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Waterfall path, valley track, open hillside
Off lead potential: Partial
Parking: Pay & display
Looking for even more dog friendly locations across the UK? Check out our Wildpack Map, a specially curated list of dog friendly points of interest.
What’s Nearby
If you’re planning a longer trip, these guides pair well with the routes above:
- Dog friendly walks in Snowdonia National Park
- Dog friendly campsites in Snowdonia National Park
- Dog friendly beaches on the Llyn Peninsula
- Dog friendly beaches in North Wales
- The Snowdonia and Llyn Peninsula Road Trip
- Dog friendly beaches on Anglesey
- Dog friendly walks on Anglesey
Final Thoughts
North Wales offers far more than a single style of walking. By mixing coastline, woodland, reservoirs and quieter mountain routes, you can build varied adventures that suit different dogs, seasons and energy levels. Whether you’re chasing sea air, forest shade or upland views, there is no shortage of dog friendly walking to explore here.