About

Gwydir Forest Park lies in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park and encircles the village of Betws-y-coed. The Gwydir hillsides are riddled with tunnels and hollowed out caverns where generations of miners toiled to extract lead and zinc ore. Lead and zinc mining once dominated the area and the legacy of old engine-houses, waste tips and reservoirs are characteristic features of the forest landscape today. Several of the most important mines have been partially restored and made safe for visitors.

Gwydir Forest Park Walking Trails

The Hafna car park is set at the foot of the ruins of the old Hafna lead mine and is the gateway to two walking trails.

The Hafna Miners' Trail 2 miles, 3.6 kilometres.
This trail threads its way across forest-clad hillsides, passing deep cuttings, capped mine shafts, tunnel entrances and long abandoned mills where the rock was processed. The occasional views are worth the walk offering a contrast between the past hard working industrial landscape and the peaceful beauty that now dominates.

Look out for the panels and MP3 audio trail posts along the way that tell the story of the mines and the men who worked there.

Conwy Valley View Trail 1.3 miles, 2.2 kilometres.
This trail goes past derelict mining buildings and numerous tunnels and spoil heaps. The viewpoint looks over the market town of Llanrwst, the wind turbines on the hills behind, and down the Conwy valley to the sea beyond.