Whether you\u2019re a seasoned pro or at the beginning of your mountain biking journey, here are the best trail centres in Wales.<\/p>\n
The best trail centres in Wales<\/h2>\n\n- Afan Forest Park<\/a><\/li>\n
- Antur Stiniog<\/a><\/li>\n
- BikePark Wales<\/a><\/li>\n
- Brechfa<\/a><\/li>\n
- Coed Llandegla<\/a><\/li>\n
- Coed-y-Brenin<\/a><\/li>\n
- Cwmcarn<\/a><\/li>\n
- Dirt Farm<\/a><\/li>\n
- Dyfi Bike Park<\/a><\/li>\n
- Nant Yr Arian<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Afan Forest Park trail guide<\/h3>\n ![\"Afan]( "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> Afan Forest Park covers a large expanse, from forest to mountain tops.<\/span><\/figcaption> Russell Burton \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nAfan Forest Park is based across two trail centres and is around an hour\u2019s drive from Cardiff.<\/p>\n
There are trails to suit all abilities, starting with the green-rated \u2018Rookie\u2019 trail that takes in sweeping descents and features a skills area to develop your riding.<\/p>\n
The Afan Visitor Centre is the starting point for Blue Scar, Penhydd and Y W\u00e3l. The second, at Glyncorrwg, is home to White\u2019s Level and Blade.<\/p>\n
At the more challenging end of the spectrum, is the long-distance black-rated W2 trail, which can be ridden from either trail centre with the other acting as a halfway cafe stop.<\/p>\n
There is also a bike park area, which consists of five trails graded from blue to black, featuring berms and jumps.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at Afan Forest Park?<\/h4>\n
The Afan Visitor Centre features a bike shop, hire and repairs, as well as showers and a bike wash to clean you and your bike.<\/p>\n
There is also a cafe for a post-ride brew and a museum dedicated to South Wales miners should you find the weather too extreme upon arrival.<\/p>\n
The Afan A Blast Centre at Glyncorrwg also offers bike hire, servicing and repairs.<\/p>\n
How to get to Afan Forest Park<\/h4>\n
Afan Forest Park can be accessed off the M4 motorway and is located between Cardiff and Swansea in South Wales.<\/p>\n
\n- Afan Visitor Centre postcode:<\/strong> SA13 3HG<\/li>\n
- Afan A Blast postcode: <\/strong>SA13 3EA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at Afan Forest Park?<\/h4>\n ![\"Afan]( "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> Afan Forest Park is a well-established trail centre.<\/span><\/figcaption> Russell Burton \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nThe trails at Afan Forest Park mainly consist of all-weather singletrack and range in length from 7km to 40km.<\/p>\n
Many of the trails thread through the trees, with others being more exposed on the open hillsides around the forest, offering views into the valleys below.<\/p>\n
The more challenging trails feature more technical sections that include boardwalks, berms, jumps and drop-offs.<\/p>\n
Rookie<\/h5>\n
Rookie is the beginner trail at Afan Forest Park, and features a wide and sweeping path in between fire-road sections. There is also a 2.6km blue-graded loop for those wanting to progress.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 6.1km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 0.5 to 2 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Blue Scar<\/h5>\n
Afan Forest Park describes Blue Scar as a real introduction to its trail network, with the trail looping around from the main visitor centre and returning down via the other side of the valley.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Blue<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 7km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1 to 1.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Penhydd<\/h5>\n
Penhydd branches off from Blue Scar, continuing to climb further up the side of the valley. The trail features steep rocky sections and is twice the length of Blue Scar.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>14.4km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Blade<\/h5>\n
Blade takes in some of the park\u2019s most technical sections, featuring various rock drops, berms and traverses.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 2.5 to 3.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
White\u2019s Level<\/h5>\n
White\u2019s Level shares some of the same technical descents as Blade, but has the option to fork off to a black descent for more skilled riders.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 15km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Y W\u00e2l (The Wall)<\/h5>\n
Y W\u00e2l mainly consists of singletrack and takes in spectacular views of the surrounding scenery.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Skyline<\/h5>\n
Skyline offers spectacular views across the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and the South Wales coast. It\u2019s the longest trail at the centre, rewarding your stamina with rocky singletrack and a 6km descent back to Glyncorrwg. There are shortcuts for those with less in the legs.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 46km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 4 to 7 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
W2<\/h5>\n
W2 links the Y W\u00e2l and White\u2019s Level trails together, creating a longer loop that can be started from either centre. W2 is the only \u2018black\u2019 graded trail at Afan Forest Park.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Antur Stiniog trail guide<\/h3>\n ![\"Three]( "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> The trails at Antur Stiniog feature plenty of the slate that built the town below.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nNestled in the small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog is Antur Stiniog, a dedicated bike park that offers 14 trail sections graded from green to black, snaking down the hillside opposite the huge slate quarry.<\/p>\n
An uplift service on the purpose-built gravel road to the top offers up to 15 runs daily, collecting from the centre at the foot of the trails. It operates from Friday to Sunday.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog has hosted the British Downhill Championship, which underlines how gnarly some of the trails are.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at Antur Stiniog?<\/h4>\n
Antur Stiniog caters for most things a mountain biker could want. The centre at the bottom of the hill includes a bike shop, hire and repair, as well as a cafe. There is also a power washer for cleaning your bike before taking it home.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog benefits from being located next to Zip World \u2013 the longest zipline in Europe \u2013 so the cafe on that side of the car park can also be used.<\/p>\n
How to get to Antur Stiniog<\/h4>\n
Antur Stiniog is located in Snowdonia, though technically not in the national park, and is accessed off the A470.<\/p>\n
\n- Postcode: <\/strong>LL41 3NB<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at Antur Stiniog?<\/h4>\n ![\"Three]( "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> Antur Stiniog provides good levels of grip, whatever the weather.<\/span><\/figcaption> Steve Behr \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nThe trails at Antur Stiniog are hard-packed with plenty of rocky sections cut into the mountainside and slab-paved sections.<\/p>\n
Two trails can be accessed straight from the uplift, but a blue link trail takes you even higher up the hill to access lower-graded trails.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog has plenty of jumps, berms and drops to look out for, but the trails cope well with the near-constant drizzle of the area and provide plenty of grip year-round.<\/p>\n
There are plenty of trails to choose from for beginners and professionals alike.<\/p>\n
Plug and Feathers<\/h5>\n
A beginner\u2019s trail that offers a good starting point into singletrack, with a spectacular view into the town below.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>2km<\/li>\n
- Estimate time:<\/strong> 5 to 10 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Jumper<\/h5>\n
A downhill trail with plenty of twists, turns and tabletop jumps. The perfect trail to get used to the park.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Blue<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 0.3km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wild Cart<\/h5>\n
With a fun roll-in and an endless supply of berms, jumps and step-downs, this red-rated trail will get your grin on. It\u2019s great fun to session on a trail bike<\/a> or a downhill bike<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.7km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Black Powder<\/h5>\n
Big rock sections and jumps await the brave on the slopes of Black Powder, with its steep banks, tight berms and flat-out speed. Make sure you\u2019re warmed up before tackling it.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.6km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Y Du<\/h5>\n
Antur\u2019s big, bad full-on downhill track has a fast flowy top section to get you up to speed before plunging into rock slabs, rough turns, step-down jumps and a really steep lower section.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.4km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
BikePark Wales trail guide<\/h3>\n ![\"Bermed]( "\\"Bermed")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> BikePark Wales is truly inclusive of all riding abilities.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nBikePark Wales has a network of more than 40 trails, which can be ridden with or without the uplift services.<\/p>\n
There is riding for all skill levels, from beginners to experts, with the park featuring many pro-lines.<\/p>\n
While many will choose to take a dual-crown forked downhill bike and the uplift, it\u2019s possible to have the same amount of fun exploring the area on a shorter-travel bike.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at BikePark Wales?<\/h4>\n
BikePark Wales offers bike and equipment hire, coaching and an uplift service.<\/p>\n
The centre at the bottom of the hill can satisfy all mountain biker needs, with a cafe, bike shop, bike wash and showers.<\/p>\n
How to get to BikePark Wales<\/h4>\n
BikePark Wales is located in Gethin Woods, near Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales. Leave the M32 at Junction 32 and take the A470 north towards Merthyr Tydfil. Go past Pontypridd, straight over the first roundabout and then, after five miles, left at the second roundabout.<\/p>\n
\n- Postcode:<\/strong> CF48 4TT<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at BikePark Wales?<\/h4>\n ![\"Two]( "\\"Two")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> BikePark Wales is home to some of the UK\u2019s biggest jumps.<\/span><\/figcaption>
Afan Forest Park trail guide<\/h3>\n ![\"Afan]( "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> Afan Forest Park covers a large expanse, from forest to mountain tops.<\/span><\/figcaption> Russell Burton \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nAfan Forest Park is based across two trail centres and is around an hour\u2019s drive from Cardiff.<\/p>\n
There are trails to suit all abilities, starting with the green-rated \u2018Rookie\u2019 trail that takes in sweeping descents and features a skills area to develop your riding.<\/p>\n
The Afan Visitor Centre is the starting point for Blue Scar, Penhydd and Y W\u00e3l. The second, at Glyncorrwg, is home to White\u2019s Level and Blade.<\/p>\n
At the more challenging end of the spectrum, is the long-distance black-rated W2 trail, which can be ridden from either trail centre with the other acting as a halfway cafe stop.<\/p>\n
There is also a bike park area, which consists of five trails graded from blue to black, featuring berms and jumps.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at Afan Forest Park?<\/h4>\n
The Afan Visitor Centre features a bike shop, hire and repairs, as well as showers and a bike wash to clean you and your bike.<\/p>\n
There is also a cafe for a post-ride brew and a museum dedicated to South Wales miners should you find the weather too extreme upon arrival.<\/p>\n
The Afan A Blast Centre at Glyncorrwg also offers bike hire, servicing and repairs.<\/p>\n
How to get to Afan Forest Park<\/h4>\n
Afan Forest Park can be accessed off the M4 motorway and is located between Cardiff and Swansea in South Wales.<\/p>\n
\n- Afan Visitor Centre postcode:<\/strong> SA13 3HG<\/li>\n
- Afan A Blast postcode: <\/strong>SA13 3EA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at Afan Forest Park?<\/h4>\n ![\"Afan]( "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> Afan Forest Park is a well-established trail centre.<\/span><\/figcaption> Russell Burton \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nThe trails at Afan Forest Park mainly consist of all-weather singletrack and range in length from 7km to 40km.<\/p>\n
Many of the trails thread through the trees, with others being more exposed on the open hillsides around the forest, offering views into the valleys below.<\/p>\n
The more challenging trails feature more technical sections that include boardwalks, berms, jumps and drop-offs.<\/p>\n
Rookie<\/h5>\n
Rookie is the beginner trail at Afan Forest Park, and features a wide and sweeping path in between fire-road sections. There is also a 2.6km blue-graded loop for those wanting to progress.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 6.1km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 0.5 to 2 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Blue Scar<\/h5>\n
Afan Forest Park describes Blue Scar as a real introduction to its trail network, with the trail looping around from the main visitor centre and returning down via the other side of the valley.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Blue<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 7km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1 to 1.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Penhydd<\/h5>\n
Penhydd branches off from Blue Scar, continuing to climb further up the side of the valley. The trail features steep rocky sections and is twice the length of Blue Scar.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>14.4km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Blade<\/h5>\n
Blade takes in some of the park\u2019s most technical sections, featuring various rock drops, berms and traverses.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 2.5 to 3.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
White\u2019s Level<\/h5>\n
White\u2019s Level shares some of the same technical descents as Blade, but has the option to fork off to a black descent for more skilled riders.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 15km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Y W\u00e2l (The Wall)<\/h5>\n
Y W\u00e2l mainly consists of singletrack and takes in spectacular views of the surrounding scenery.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Skyline<\/h5>\n
Skyline offers spectacular views across the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and the South Wales coast. It\u2019s the longest trail at the centre, rewarding your stamina with rocky singletrack and a 6km descent back to Glyncorrwg. There are shortcuts for those with less in the legs.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 46km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 4 to 7 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
W2<\/h5>\n
W2 links the Y W\u00e2l and White\u2019s Level trails together, creating a longer loop that can be started from either centre. W2 is the only \u2018black\u2019 graded trail at Afan Forest Park.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Antur Stiniog trail guide<\/h3>\n ![\"Three]( "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> The trails at Antur Stiniog feature plenty of the slate that built the town below.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nNestled in the small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog is Antur Stiniog, a dedicated bike park that offers 14 trail sections graded from green to black, snaking down the hillside opposite the huge slate quarry.<\/p>\n
An uplift service on the purpose-built gravel road to the top offers up to 15 runs daily, collecting from the centre at the foot of the trails. It operates from Friday to Sunday.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog has hosted the British Downhill Championship, which underlines how gnarly some of the trails are.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at Antur Stiniog?<\/h4>\n
Antur Stiniog caters for most things a mountain biker could want. The centre at the bottom of the hill includes a bike shop, hire and repair, as well as a cafe. There is also a power washer for cleaning your bike before taking it home.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog benefits from being located next to Zip World \u2013 the longest zipline in Europe \u2013 so the cafe on that side of the car park can also be used.<\/p>\n
How to get to Antur Stiniog<\/h4>\n
Antur Stiniog is located in Snowdonia, though technically not in the national park, and is accessed off the A470.<\/p>\n
\n- Postcode: <\/strong>LL41 3NB<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at Antur Stiniog?<\/h4>\n ![\"Three]( "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> Antur Stiniog provides good levels of grip, whatever the weather.<\/span><\/figcaption> Steve Behr \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nThe trails at Antur Stiniog are hard-packed with plenty of rocky sections cut into the mountainside and slab-paved sections.<\/p>\n
Two trails can be accessed straight from the uplift, but a blue link trail takes you even higher up the hill to access lower-graded trails.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog has plenty of jumps, berms and drops to look out for, but the trails cope well with the near-constant drizzle of the area and provide plenty of grip year-round.<\/p>\n
There are plenty of trails to choose from for beginners and professionals alike.<\/p>\n
Plug and Feathers<\/h5>\n
A beginner\u2019s trail that offers a good starting point into singletrack, with a spectacular view into the town below.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>2km<\/li>\n
- Estimate time:<\/strong> 5 to 10 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Jumper<\/h5>\n
A downhill trail with plenty of twists, turns and tabletop jumps. The perfect trail to get used to the park.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Blue<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 0.3km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wild Cart<\/h5>\n
With a fun roll-in and an endless supply of berms, jumps and step-downs, this red-rated trail will get your grin on. It\u2019s great fun to session on a trail bike<\/a> or a downhill bike<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.7km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Black Powder<\/h5>\n
Big rock sections and jumps await the brave on the slopes of Black Powder, with its steep banks, tight berms and flat-out speed. Make sure you\u2019re warmed up before tackling it.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.6km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Y Du<\/h5>\n
Antur\u2019s big, bad full-on downhill track has a fast flowy top section to get you up to speed before plunging into rock slabs, rough turns, step-down jumps and a really steep lower section.<\/p>\n
\n- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.4km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
BikePark Wales trail guide<\/h3>\n ![\"Bermed]( "\\"Bermed")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> BikePark Wales is truly inclusive of all riding abilities.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\nBikePark Wales has a network of more than 40 trails, which can be ridden with or without the uplift services.<\/p>\n
There is riding for all skill levels, from beginners to experts, with the park featuring many pro-lines.<\/p>\n
While many will choose to take a dual-crown forked downhill bike and the uplift, it\u2019s possible to have the same amount of fun exploring the area on a shorter-travel bike.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at BikePark Wales?<\/h4>\n
BikePark Wales offers bike and equipment hire, coaching and an uplift service.<\/p>\n
The centre at the bottom of the hill can satisfy all mountain biker needs, with a cafe, bike shop, bike wash and showers.<\/p>\n
How to get to BikePark Wales<\/h4>\n
BikePark Wales is located in Gethin Woods, near Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales. Leave the M32 at Junction 32 and take the A470 north towards Merthyr Tydfil. Go past Pontypridd, straight over the first roundabout and then, after five miles, left at the second roundabout.<\/p>\n
\n- Postcode:<\/strong> CF48 4TT<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at BikePark Wales?<\/h4>\n ![\"Two]( "\\"Two")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div> BikePark Wales is home to some of the UK\u2019s biggest jumps.<\/span><\/figcaption>
![\"Afan](\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/11\/MBK319eds.rbopener-79e4524.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413\" "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>Afan Forest Park is based across two trail centres and is around an hour\u2019s drive from Cardiff.<\/p>\n
There are trails to suit all abilities, starting with the green-rated \u2018Rookie\u2019 trail that takes in sweeping descents and features a skills area to develop your riding.<\/p>\n
The Afan Visitor Centre is the starting point for Blue Scar, Penhydd and Y W\u00e3l. The second, at Glyncorrwg, is home to White\u2019s Level and Blade.<\/p>\n
At the more challenging end of the spectrum, is the long-distance black-rated W2 trail, which can be ridden from either trail centre with the other acting as a halfway cafe stop.<\/p>\n
There is also a bike park area, which consists of five trails graded from blue to black, featuring berms and jumps.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at Afan Forest Park?<\/h4>\n
The Afan Visitor Centre features a bike shop, hire and repairs, as well as showers and a bike wash to clean you and your bike.<\/p>\n
There is also a cafe for a post-ride brew and a museum dedicated to South Wales miners should you find the weather too extreme upon arrival.<\/p>\n
The Afan A Blast Centre at Glyncorrwg also offers bike hire, servicing and repairs.<\/p>\n
How to get to Afan Forest Park<\/h4>\n
Afan Forest Park can be accessed off the M4 motorway and is located between Cardiff and Swansea in South Wales.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Afan Visitor Centre postcode:<\/strong> SA13 3HG<\/li>\n
- Afan A Blast postcode: <\/strong>SA13 3EA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at Afan Forest Park?<\/h4>\n
![\"Afan]( "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>Afan Forest Park is a well-established trail centre.<\/span><\/figcaption> Russell Burton \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n The trails at Afan Forest Park mainly consist of all-weather singletrack and range in length from 7km to 40km.<\/p>\n
Many of the trails thread through the trees, with others being more exposed on the open hillsides around the forest, offering views into the valleys below.<\/p>\n
The more challenging trails feature more technical sections that include boardwalks, berms, jumps and drop-offs.<\/p>\n
Rookie<\/h5>\n
Rookie is the beginner trail at Afan Forest Park, and features a wide and sweeping path in between fire-road sections. There is also a 2.6km blue-graded loop for those wanting to progress.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 6.1km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 0.5 to 2 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Blue Scar<\/h5>\n
Afan Forest Park describes Blue Scar as a real introduction to its trail network, with the trail looping around from the main visitor centre and returning down via the other side of the valley.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Blue<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 7km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1 to 1.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Penhydd<\/h5>\n
Penhydd branches off from Blue Scar, continuing to climb further up the side of the valley. The trail features steep rocky sections and is twice the length of Blue Scar.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>14.4km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Blade<\/h5>\n
Blade takes in some of the park\u2019s most technical sections, featuring various rock drops, berms and traverses.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 2.5 to 3.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
White\u2019s Level<\/h5>\n
White\u2019s Level shares some of the same technical descents as Blade, but has the option to fork off to a black descent for more skilled riders.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 15km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Y W\u00e2l (The Wall)<\/h5>\n
Y W\u00e2l mainly consists of singletrack and takes in spectacular views of the surrounding scenery.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Skyline<\/h5>\n
Skyline offers spectacular views across the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and the South Wales coast. It\u2019s the longest trail at the centre, rewarding your stamina with rocky singletrack and a 6km descent back to Glyncorrwg. There are shortcuts for those with less in the legs.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 46km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 4 to 7 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
W2<\/h5>\n
W2 links the Y W\u00e2l and White\u2019s Level trails together, creating a longer loop that can be started from either centre. W2 is the only \u2018black\u2019 graded trail at Afan Forest Park.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 1.5 to 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Antur Stiniog trail guide<\/h3>\n
![\"Three]( "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>The trails at Antur Stiniog feature plenty of the slate that built the town below.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n Nestled in the small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog is Antur Stiniog, a dedicated bike park that offers 14 trail sections graded from green to black, snaking down the hillside opposite the huge slate quarry.<\/p>\n
An uplift service on the purpose-built gravel road to the top offers up to 15 runs daily, collecting from the centre at the foot of the trails. It operates from Friday to Sunday.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog has hosted the British Downhill Championship, which underlines how gnarly some of the trails are.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at Antur Stiniog?<\/h4>\n
Antur Stiniog caters for most things a mountain biker could want. The centre at the bottom of the hill includes a bike shop, hire and repair, as well as a cafe. There is also a power washer for cleaning your bike before taking it home.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog benefits from being located next to Zip World \u2013 the longest zipline in Europe \u2013 so the cafe on that side of the car park can also be used.<\/p>\n
How to get to Antur Stiniog<\/h4>\n
Antur Stiniog is located in Snowdonia, though technically not in the national park, and is accessed off the A470.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Postcode: <\/strong>LL41 3NB<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at Antur Stiniog?<\/h4>\n
![\"Three]( "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>Antur Stiniog provides good levels of grip, whatever the weather.<\/span><\/figcaption> Steve Behr \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n The trails at Antur Stiniog are hard-packed with plenty of rocky sections cut into the mountainside and slab-paved sections.<\/p>\n
Two trails can be accessed straight from the uplift, but a blue link trail takes you even higher up the hill to access lower-graded trails.<\/p>\n
Antur Stiniog has plenty of jumps, berms and drops to look out for, but the trails cope well with the near-constant drizzle of the area and provide plenty of grip year-round.<\/p>\n
There are plenty of trails to choose from for beginners and professionals alike.<\/p>\n
Plug and Feathers<\/h5>\n
A beginner\u2019s trail that offers a good starting point into singletrack, with a spectacular view into the town below.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>2km<\/li>\n
- Estimate time:<\/strong> 5 to 10 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Jumper<\/h5>\n
A downhill trail with plenty of twists, turns and tabletop jumps. The perfect trail to get used to the park.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Blue<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 0.3km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wild Cart<\/h5>\n
With a fun roll-in and an endless supply of berms, jumps and step-downs, this red-rated trail will get your grin on. It\u2019s great fun to session on a trail bike<\/a> or a downhill bike<\/a>.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Red<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.7km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Black Powder<\/h5>\n
Big rock sections and jumps await the brave on the slopes of Black Powder, with its steep banks, tight berms and flat-out speed. Make sure you\u2019re warmed up before tackling it.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.6km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Y Du<\/h5>\n
Antur\u2019s big, bad full-on downhill track has a fast flowy top section to get you up to speed before plunging into rock slabs, rough turns, step-down jumps and a really steep lower section.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Grade:<\/strong> Black<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.4km<\/li>\n
- Estimated time:<\/strong> 3 to 6 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
BikePark Wales trail guide<\/h3>\n
![\"Bermed]( "\\"Bermed")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>BikePark Wales is truly inclusive of all riding abilities.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n BikePark Wales has a network of more than 40 trails, which can be ridden with or without the uplift services.<\/p>\n
There is riding for all skill levels, from beginners to experts, with the park featuring many pro-lines.<\/p>\n
While many will choose to take a dual-crown forked downhill bike and the uplift, it\u2019s possible to have the same amount of fun exploring the area on a shorter-travel bike.<\/p>\n
What facilities are there at BikePark Wales?<\/h4>\n
BikePark Wales offers bike and equipment hire, coaching and an uplift service.<\/p>\n
The centre at the bottom of the hill can satisfy all mountain biker needs, with a cafe, bike shop, bike wash and showers.<\/p>\n
How to get to BikePark Wales<\/h4>\n
BikePark Wales is located in Gethin Woods, near Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales. Leave the M32 at Junction 32 and take the A470 north towards Merthyr Tydfil. Go past Pontypridd, straight over the first roundabout and then, after five miles, left at the second roundabout.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Postcode:<\/strong> CF48 4TT<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the trails like at BikePark Wales?<\/h4>\n
![\"Two]( "\\"Two")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>BikePark Wales is home to some of the UK\u2019s biggest jumps.<\/span><\/figcaption>
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.4km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.6km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 1.7km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 0.3km<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>2km<\/li>\n
- Grade:<\/strong> Green<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 46km<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>23km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 15km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 23km<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>14.4km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 7km<\/li>\n
- Distance:<\/strong> 6.1km<\/li>\n
- Afan A Blast postcode: <\/strong>SA13 3EA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Afan](\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/11\/LI3091424MBK321pulse1.afapreview-f49cb64-e1699007919301.jpeg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413\" "\\"Afan")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>![\"Three](\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/11\/MBK338wcrewAL69-29b417d.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413\" "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>![\"Three](\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/11\/20171012antur434-30479cf.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413\" "\\"Three")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>![\"Bermed](\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/11\/LI2604011MBK296.bpw.pic17-a22735d.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413\" "\\"Bermed")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>![\"Two](\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/11\/MBK356supp.ALbpw2-a229b97.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413\" "\\"Two")
\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div>