Walkmates
Walk
Route by PaulWalkmates
Save the route to find it later. Follow it to hear when a date is added.
A longer woodland circuit from the public Beddgelert Forest car park, following the complete Derwen route through the northern forest before returning beside Llyn Llywelyn. The loop reaches the quieter tracks towards Cwm Du, descends to the lake and follows its western and southern sides. Forest views towards the surrounding Eryri mountains and the lake make good places for a pause.
This is a walking version of the yellow marked Derwen cycle route. Natural Resources Wales permits walkers on these forest roads and bridleways. Follow the mapped route at the numbered forest junctions and expect to meet cyclists, riders and occasional working vehicles. Give them room, keep dogs under control and follow any forestry closure or diversion signs. The route does not climb a mountain summit.
Allow around four hours for the approximately 11 km circuit, including the climbs and a short lake stop. The operator describes sustained climbs on forest roads; gravel, rough surfaces and wet or muddy patches require footwear with grip. It is a moderate half-day walk rather than a level lakeside stroll. Bring water, food and a waterproof.
There are two gated crossings of the Welsh Highland Railway, one on the outward route and one on the return. Look and listen for trains, obey the crossing instructions and close the manual gates behind you. Use the mapped crossings only.
Start at the free Natural Resources Wales forest car park, reached by the signed track off the A4085 north of the Forest Holidays entrance. Use the public forest parking, not the holiday site. Overnight parking is not permitted, and the operator lists no toilets here.
Route and access information: Natural Resources Wales, Beddgelert Forest visitor page and its linked Derwen route map, checked 4 October 2026. The walking time above is an estimate for this full circuit; the operator's shorter time is for cycling.
Use the route details to plan your walk
If the map image does not load, the route description and starting-point details are still on this page.
The interactive map will load when you reach this section.
Start when you're ready and add the walk to your history. No group date needed.
For walkers
Watch: portrait video or landscape video.
Saved Walks needs an account. Reopening the website needs a connection; check access, weather and your own navigation before you go.
Not ready to pick a date? Follow it and you'll hear when somebody else does.
No commitment. You can follow it now and pick a date later.
Other routes starting close to this one
Explore more: Walks in Gwynedd
A few things to know before you make plans.
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.
The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.
Necessary storage keeps Walkmates working. With your permission, Google Analytics, Mixpanel and Simple Analytics help us understand how the site is used. Optional analytics stay off until you choose.