Steam Railways; Discover Snowdonia's Steam Railways One activity you must do is to ride the narrow gauge railways that traverse this magnificent National park. Sit back and enjoy as you pass beautiful villages and mountains.

Ffestiniog Railway  3.4 miles 01766516024  (route map) 

Established in 1832 as a means to transport slate from the quarries. The railway climbs over 700ft above sea level and clings to the mountainside. It is 13.5 mile long traveling though the gorgeous landscapes of the park. You will see lakes, waterfalls, green pastures and woodlands. You will even go though a pitch black tunnel.

Welsh Highland Railway  12.1 miles 01766516000 (route map)

Restored and reopened for the journey between Caernarfon and Porthmadog in 2011. It is 25 miles long, and climbs to a height of 650ft above sea level. You will see some fantastic views of the Welsh countryside as you travel along the base of Snowdon towards the beautiful village of Beddgelert, through the breath-taking Aberglaslyn pass and then towards Porthmadog. If you are planning a visit to Caernarfon Castle this could be your way to travel there.

Snowdon Mountain Railway 27.1 miles 01286870223 (route map)

Journey to the rooftop of Wales, taking you all the way to the top of Mount Snowdon, and climbing 4.5 miles to the summit of 1085m. The railway opened in 1896 and has been allowing people to view the awe-inspiring sights ever since. It is the only rack and pinion railway in the UK. Described as " One of the most unique and wonderful railway jounerys in the world".

Llanberis Lake Railway 27.8 miles 01286870549 (route map)

The little engines take you on a five mile journey alongside Lake Padarn right in the heart of Snowdonia. Traveling past the 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, past Llanberis twin lakes, joining the 1845 slate railway route to run alongside the shores giving you stunning views of Snowdon. There is a short stop at Cei Llydan a beautiful tranquil place for a picnic. The five mile return trip takes around 60 minutes.

Bala Lake Railway 24.2 miles 01678540666 (route map)

Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid ( Bala Lake Railway) offers a delightful 9 mile return journey alongside Bala Lake, through beautiful Snowdonia National Park with views of the nearby mountains of Arenig Fawr, Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy.There are picnic sites at Llangower providing a the perfect spot for a short break in the journey. At the Bala terminus it is a short walk to the town for shops and cafes.