BSC2023: Llanrwst to Betws-y-Coed Walk (Sat 12:00)
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This is one of the events organised as part of Big Spring Camp 2023.
Join us on an afternoon walk from the BSC campsite to Betws-y-Coed, returning by train to Llanrwst. It's then a short walk from Llanrwst back to the BSC site at the rugby club.
The start time of 12:00 midday enables you to have a lie-in on Saturday or go for the Conwy parkrun at 09:00 (another scheduled BSC event). You'll have time to return from Conwy and get yourself brunch at the campsite before this walk. Although a shorter walk (8 miles / 13 km), it requires some effort! We'll walk along stretches of the Afon Llugwy river and explore a little of the forest above Betws-y-Coed (ascent is approx 300 metres).
Leaving the campsite, we'll cross fields to the riverside path along the Afon Llugwy. Passing the town of Llanrwst and Gwydir Castle, we'll then climb into the forest to find a small lake named Llyn Parc. Following tracks through the forest, we'll see remains of the mining activity (lead, zinc and iron mining) that was once widespread in the forest. We then descend into the valley of the Afon Llugwy to pick up the riverside path again and follow it into the village of Betws-y-Coed, passing the Miner's Bridge - a wooden footbridge across the river.
Betws-y-Coed is a popular location with a number or eating and drinking places. It has a railway station and the return home will be by train to Llanrwst, with a short walk across fields to the BSC campsite. You will need a single ticket to Llanrwst North (cost £2.60). The walk leader will return on the 18.05 train (tbc), allowing time for drinks, maybe something to eat and a look around Betws-y-Coed. You can stay with him, meet him at the station or make your own way back - note there is only one later train at 20:49.
This walk is around 8miles / 13 km, with ascent of 300 metres and a similar descent. Best to bring a sandwich and/or some snacks for later in the day and plenty of fluid to drink. Good footwear, ideally walking boots, is required as the ground is rough and rocky in places and may be wet and muddy, depending on the weather.
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Photo credits: photos by ODL members, with permission granted to ODL for their use.
What to bring
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and come prepared, especially if the weather is looking cold, wet or windy. The following notes are a checklist if you're new to walking.
Boots: your most important piece of kit: comfortable, waterproof, breathable and designed for hiking. Trainers may be OK, depending on how rough the ground is and if its dry. Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters. Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions.
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and to body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Trousers: avoid jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, and take ages to dry out. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. On warm days shorts may be ok.
Waterproof jacket: carry one in your rucksack when walking in all but the calmest of weather. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Hat or cap: useful for staying warm in winter and shaded in summer. Gloves: essential in winter and ideally waterproof.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, this should be comfortable to wear and allow you to move your arms freely.
Sunglasses: for sunny days, even in winter. Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days.
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated. Snacks: a range of biscuits, energy bars, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit (for example) are always good to have. Put them in your rucksack where they are easy to grab.
Water and other fluid: bring between one and two litres, depending on season of the year and temperature. A combination of water, fruit juice, energy drinks and a hot drink is a good idea.
Medicines: essential if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments, etc. A personal first aid kit with bandages, paracetamol / ibuprofen (for your own use only) and hand sanitiser is also a good idea.
Food & drink
Bring a sandwich for later in the day, fruit and snacks for along the way and plenty of water or other fluids (one to two litres) to drink. You'll be able to get additional snacks or a meal in Betws-y-Coed, before catching a train back to Llanrwst.