Llyn Elsi from Betws y Coed
Key: Mountain over 914m Peak over 600m Peak under 600m Low level walk
Length: 4km Height gain: 200m Highest point: 250m Approx time: 2 hours gpx file
This is a pleasant walk to Llyn Elsi, a lake in the forest above Betws y Coed. The walk through the forest is fairly easy going, and leads to a clearing with excellent views across to Moel Siabod.
The walk is approximately 4 km long with only 200m height gain. It can be completed comfortably in 2 hours, but you may want to take longer to explore the forest or walk around the lake. You begin up the road behind St Mary's church, and soon make your way in to the forest. The there are a number of tracks which branch off as you proceed, but you should simply stick to the main track which winds its way towards Llyn Elsi. As you approach the lake you will be greeted with some open ground, and good views towards Moel Siabod.
When you reach the lake turn right and make your way to the monument which commemorates the building of the dam on the lake. From here you may choose to follow the path around the lake to lengthen the walk. Alternatively you can follow the Jubilee path (or one of many others) back through the forest to Betws y Coed.