Moel Siabod
Capel Curig, Wales
Roughly translated as “shapely mountain,” Moel Siabod offers some of the finest views in Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park. The mountain is lesser-known than its Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) neighbor—and this is no bad thing—meaning it entices walkers instead with solitude and sweeping views over the surrounding Moelwynion massif peaks.
The basics
There are different routes up Moel Siabod, but perhaps the easiest one is the route locally known as “the tourist path” that starts from Plas-y-Brenin, near Capel Curig. This hike covers a distance of around 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) and an elevation of around 2,300 feet (700 meters), taking about 5-7 hours to complete.
While many guided walks in the national park put the focus on Snowdonia, there are guided scrambles and tours of North Wales that may include Moel Siabod or at least provide information about it as they pass by. Look for options departing from nearby Betws-y-Coed or Llanberis, if you’re not driving yourself.
Things to know before you go
The pronunciation of the peak’s name is “moil sha-bod,” though many say simply “sha-bod.”
The hiking trails here are exposed to the elements and are known for barreling winds. A windproof jacket is ideal on milder days.
Some areas of the trail can be boggy and slippery. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
The nearest public restrooms are between the river and the shops in Capel Curig.
How to get there
For the tourist path, head directly to Plas-y-Brenin and park outside the outdoor center, or drive to Capel Curig where you’ll find a National Trust parking lot. From Capel Curig, there’s a track and bridle path that brings you onto the main road near Plas-y-Brenin. By bus, take the S1 from Betws-y-Coed train station direct to Plas-y-Brenin.
When to get there
Hike Moel Siabod between April and September to avoid the wettest and coldest weather, when the paths can become particularly slippery. While the tourist path is never crowded like the Snowdon trails, it can feel busier during the UK school summer vacations, when the wider national park fills up with vacationers.
Daear Ddu Ridge
If you want to make your ascent more challenging, take the route via Daear Ddu Ridge instead. This involves stretches of scrambling—think of it as the middle ground between hiking and climbing—so you’ll need to be in good shape and not too scared of heights. The BMC (British Mountaineering Council) graded this ridge an easy Level 1, meaning it’s a great place to start if you’ve never scrambled before.
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