Aber Falls

Aber Falls (Welsh: Rhaeadr Fawr) is a waterfall in Gwynedd, North Wales, about 3 km south of the village of Abergwyngregyn. It sits where the Carneddau foothills meet the lowlands, inside Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, and ranks among the most visited waterfalls in the region.

What will you see at Aber Falls?

The Afon Goch tips over a rock lip and drops roughly 37 metres (about 120 ft) down a dark, near-vertical face into a shallow pool. After rain the curtain is broad and loud; in a dry summer it thins to a ribbon. A smaller second fall, Rhaeadr Fach, lies a little to the west along the same trail.

The valley is open and green, with sheep pasture, dry-stone walls and the rounded slopes of the Carneddau behind. The approach through woodland and fields is part of the appeal.

How do you get to Aber Falls?

Start from Abergwyngregyn, just off the A55 between Bangor and Conwy. The main car parks are at Bont Newydd, at the end of a narrow lane from the village. Spaces are few and fill early on weekends and in high season. Free parking on the edge of the village is the fallback, and adds around 0.8 km each way.

From the car park, a wide, clear path leads to the foot of the falls, about 2 km one way. The first stretch is easy for most fitness levels; the last section can be stony.

Which walking routes are there?

• Short out-and-back: about 4 km in total, usually 1.5-2 hours including time at the falls.
• Hill circuit: a loop of roughly 6-7 km with 200-300 m of climbing, around 2.5-3 hours. Moderate effort.
• Mountain extension: linking the falls with higher Carneddau ground means a day of well over 10 km and up to about 500 m of ascent.

When should you visit?

Spring and autumn work well, as does a day or two after rain, when the flow is strongest. Summer is busier, so go early. Weather in Eryri turns quickly: bring a waterproof jacket and boots with grip, because the path is wet after rain. Mobile signal can be poor.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Aber Falls?

About 37 metres, or roughly 120 feet.

Is there an entry fee?

Walking to the falls is free. Some car parks at Bont Newydd may charge; free roadside parking is available at the village edge.

How long should I allow?

Allow 1.5-2 hours for the walk to the falls and back, or 2.5-3 hours for the hill circuit.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, the opening path is wide and gentle. Rocks beside the falls are slippery, so keep children close.

What else is nearby?

The smaller Rhaeadr Fach on the same trail, plus the Menai Strait coast and the city of Bangor a few kilometres away.