This 3.5-mile section of the dismantled railway through broadleaf woodland links Caernarfon with the old slate harbour of Port Dinorwig (Y Felinheli). There are views of the Menai Strait and across the water to the island of Anglesey.
The Menai Strait is 13 miles long and between 200 yards and 1 mile wide. Near Bangor the strait is crossed by two famous bridges: the Menai Suspension Bridge was built by Thomas Telford in 1819-26 and the Britannia Bridge, which was originally a tubular railway bridge built by Robert Stephenson. This was destroyed by fire in 1970 and a new bridge was built in 1972 with an additional deck for the A5 road. Before these bridges, crossings were made by ferry but cattle were forced to swim.
This route is completely traffic-free apart from short road sections to access the centres of Caernarfon and Y Felinheli.
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Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.