Yesterday marked the start of my hike along the Snowdonia Slate Trail, a day of surprises, scenic wonders, and a mix of challenges and small wins.

Setting off on the train to Newport, I found myself chatting with the station staff, setting a cheerful tone for the day ahead. I had to find a fix (a headband) for my backpack’s loose buckle. I switch trains at Newport for the Transport for Wales train, (it had USB charging points!) and announcements in Welsh, adding an immersive touch to the journey.

Interestingly the toilet felt like a TARDIS and kept talking 😆 “door closed”…

Chatting with other passengers was lovely and the lady selling food and drinks explained the voice for announcements is called “Digital Doris” amongstbthe staff.

Arriving in Bangor, I stepped onto the trail, greeted by a picturesque bike path in the woods and by penrhyn castle. Yet, amidst the beauty, I couldn’t help but notice the reality of homelessness under the bridge (someone clearly lives there)—a stark reminder of the world’s complexities.

I kept walking, and the scenery got better – fields full of sheep and adorable baby lambs, and I stumbled upon a lovely spot with bluebells nestled between a couple of trees.

Then, along the fence next to the A55, it got a bit muddy in places, but the wooden path kept it wild enough. I couldn’t help but notice the cars zooming by through the bushes and trees – even played “yellow car”, just for fun.

After that, I struggled over and over again through kissing gates as my pack was too big for them.  Taking my bag off, lifting it over the gate, going through, putting my bag back on, walking the length of the field, and starting again…). It slowed me down a lot and was tiring. 

Despite the hurdles (pun intended), the journey was punctuated by moments of wonder, from the smell of wild garlic to the breathtaking views atop Charub quarry. Pushing onward towards Bethesda, I struggled with fatigue and the weight of my pack. I was on my own all day. No other hikers on the trail. Just a few dog walkers in towns.

Deciding against indulging in a warm meal and pint in Bethesda, I carried on past Bethesda. The quaint station caught my eye with its charming architecture, providing a brief respite before pushing onwards.

Leaving the town behind, I hoped for smoother terrain to pitch my tent. A massive hill loomed before me, challenging my resolve, but the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings offered ample reward.

Saw another yellow car!

Fortunately, the weather held, sparing me from the rain as I navigated through marshy, boggy ground and crossed streams with caution.

I pressed on, guided by a mix of determination and optimism. As dusk approached, I faced the daunting task of finding a suitable spot to pitch my tent. My first option was under power lines, so I moved on.

With limited options and the threat of rain looming, I made a quick decision, settling for a rocky patch near a house.With the worst of the pitching behind me, I treated myself to a comforting meal of pasta and a hot chocolate, a well-deserved reward after a challenging day on the trail.

Richard later shared, it was Judith’s birthday yesterday – I think she’d have like my little adventure.

Stay tuned for the next chapter of my journey in Snowdonia.