5 Most Beautiful Mountain Biking Trails in Wales

By Amanda Wilks

Trips to Wales may not immediately conjure up images of mountain biking. The land is well-known for its natural beauty, yet it is often sold short on its sprawling number of biking trails open for riders of all experience levels to partake in with paths that cut across rocky crags and through densely-wooded forests alike. No matter what sort of sights you have in mind, chances are Wales has just the trail or course for you. 

The mountain bike trails you'll find have rich and storied histories given the age of biking as a hobby versus the rich history Wales holds so dear. Old mining tracks and rail lines have been converted to hobby visits and biking vacation destinations for curious riders the world over. It's simply an added bonus that the quiet fame of Wales' biking destinations means they often see less traffic than other, more popular tourist destinations, meaning you likely won't end up clogged on an over-saturated trail. 

Start planning a getaway or a lucky local visit to some of the most gorgeous trails in Wales with help from these five must-see destinations.

1.Derwen/Gorlech Trail, Brechfa

Starting off easy are the Derwen and Gorlech trails, taking up the lower end of the intensity scale without cutting back on natural splendors to behold. While Derwen is a trail perfect for those with young ones or simply those who haven't spent much time biking, Gorlech is a slightly more technical trail that demands some faith in your biking abilities before you take it on. Keep in mind that for technical trails such as Gorlech you will need a bike with a solid construction and protective gear in order to ride safely.

 As a reward you'll get to ride through quiet, shady forests and across wooded singletracks beneath the looming mossy overhangs that leave Brechfa's biking trails an exquisitely moody destination to visit. It's almost as if the hands of man have yet to dig in and it's easy to forget just where you are when buzzing between the tightly-packed trees.

2.Wild Cart Trail, Antur Stiniog

Taking it up a notch is the Wild Cart Trail which offers a red-level challenge that promises to leave you feeling as pumped after you finish it as you did when you first began. 

The beauty it offers isn't quite the woody comforts of Brechfa, but more a raw, rocky feel that communicates some of the more savage notes of Wales' outdoor trails. It's only been an official biking trail for five years but what it lacks in pedigree it makes up for in pure biking thrills.

3.Jympar, Antur Stiniog

Not quite ready for a Red trail? No worries, as Antur Stiniog is home to seven distinct trails with Jympar offering a Blue-grade ride for those who prefer to take it easy when they're out and about.

You'll have an even better time soaking in the sights of Wales' rolling hills and mountain peaks when riding Jympar. You might even be able to bring your family along if they've got a handle of the basics and they'll surely appreciate the sights just as much as you.

4.Afan Forest Park, Port Talbot

For those wishing for a forest-bound ride that challenges the body and mind alike, Afan Forest Park is a course with some bite to back up its bark. Boasting a ride time that could average out to seven hours easily, this well-graded track stretches around 161 kilometers of forested land broken up between root-heavy underbrush and sharp, rocky descents. The trails are often wet but the sheer amount of trail choice available is more than worth a bit of sogginess. 

With its consistent rating as Singletrack's most popular and well-liked trail in Wales, it's hard to go wrong with the Park. You can even take a break from your regularly scheduled ride to visit their riding museum or tromp along their hiking paths just in case you need a change of pace.

5.Elan Valley

Finally, taking in the sights doesn't always mean looking through the woodlands and enjoying nature's self-made splendors. Elan Valley offers rides that pass by Victorian-era dams and other man-made landmarks between its historic railways and reservoirs.

You won't be without woodland to traverse or beautiful hilltop views to soak in, but you can take it some of the more historically unique offerings that Wales hosts combined with its natural attractions on your next mountain biking trip. 

Conclusion

If you've read this it means you probably already know the effects of sitting all day and you're a real active person! But whether you're lucky enough to live in the area or are simply looking for a mountain biking destination that isn't as obvious as loading up a truck and heading to Utah, remember Wales offers more than its fair share of natural landmarks and mountainous views to sate even the most hardcore of biking aficionados. Good luck convincing yourself to leave after you arrive!