In the mountains of north Wales, water moves quietly through ancient valleys, slipping over stone and gathering in clear pools beneath narrow waterfalls. The landscape around Snowdonia—known today as Eryri National Park—has long drawn walkers seeking the calm rhythm of mountain paths and the quiet beauty of running water. Yet even in such tranquil places, the land can hold sudden and unexpected danger.
Along one of the routes leading toward the slopes of Snowdon, a mountain stream winds through a narrow valley before spilling into a small pool beside the trail. The route, called the Watkin Path, is known among hikers for its dramatic scenery and the cool water that flows down from the peaks above.
It was here that two sisters had come during a warm day, part of a visit meant to enjoy the scenery and spend time outdoors. The women, aged 29 and 25, were postgraduate students studying at University of Chester, having arrived in Britain earlier that year to pursue master’s degrees.
According to evidence heard later at an inquest, the sisters had been walking with friends along the path before reaching a small waterfall pool formed by the mountain stream. The group had spent some time in the area before separating briefly so the sisters could approach the water on their own.
The two women, who could not swim, remained fully clothed as they stepped toward the edge of the pool. They had intended only to paddle in the shallow water rather than enter the deeper section beneath the falls.
But the rocks along the stream, polished smooth by years of rushing water, can become extremely slippery. Investigators believe the sisters likely lost their footing while standing on one of these surfaces, falling into water that quickly became too deep to escape.
When their friends returned and could not find them, concern quickly spread along the quiet valley path. Their belongings were still near the water’s edge. Emergency services were called, and rescue teams began searching the pool and surrounding stream.
Both sisters were eventually recovered from the water, but despite efforts by rescuers, they could not be revived. An assistant coroner later concluded that the deaths were accidental, likely caused by slipping from rocks described during the hearing as exceptionally slick.
The sisters had traveled from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, to continue their studies abroad, a journey that represented ambition and hope for the future. Friends and family later described them as dedicated students and close siblings whose lives were closely intertwined.
In the valleys surrounding Eryri National Park, the mountain streams continue their steady movement through rock and moss. Visitors still follow the paths that climb toward the peaks, pausing beside the same pools where the water gathers in silence.
The tragedy has also renewed reminders from authorities about the hidden risks around natural swimming spots. Cold mountain water, sudden changes in depth, and slippery stone can turn even a peaceful scene into danger within moments.
In landscapes shaped by time and weather, beauty and risk often exist side by side—quietly, and sometimes without warning.
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Sources
The Guardian ITV News Press Association North Wales Police Caernarfon Coroner’s Court