Mountain Biking Heaven…

The popularity of Mountain Biking and Cycling in general is on the increase. In the Betws-y-Coed district we are spoilt for peaceful off piste tracks, scenic yet challenging structured forest trails and for well known mountain biking centres.

One of the most infamous mountain bike trails in the area is the Marin Trail. The trail is 25km long and takes around 2-4 hours to complete. The trail starts and finishes in Llanrwst but is accessible at various points from Betws-y-Coed. Highly exhilarating; you’ll experience big climbs and big descents, single track and forest track, notwithstanding the fantastic scenery along the way.

On the opposite side of Betws-y-Coed lies the Penmachno Mountain Bike Trails. This is another challenging trail with some steady climbs over a choice of two loops. Allow 3-5 hours for the full 30km of mixed forest and single track with wooden sections. With stream and bridge crossings and more phenomenal views, these fantastic trails are accessible from the road to Cwm Penmachno and are one of the area’s hidden gems.

These mountain bike trails are free and maintained for your enjoyment by volunteers so please be generous at the donation points to support their great work and therefore the upkeep of the trails.

When mountain biking met adrenalin adventure, Antur Stiniog was born. Based in Blaenau Ffestiniog, just 15 mins from Betws-y-Coed, this is one of a few uplift centres in the UK where the most of the work is in holding your nerve! Antur Stiniog is a downhill and freeride centre with a range of exciting features for competent riders. The uplift shuttle is fast and quick but we recommend you book in advance.

When you’ve exhausted the local mountain biking offerings why not spend the day 30 mins down the road at Coed y Brenin; the first forest to be developed specifically for mountain biking. Here a range of routes suitable for novice families to expert riders with spectacular scenery, can be enjoyed with a well earned paned or cuppa in the state of the art visitor centre at the end of your ride.

View of our photo gallery

• Mountain biking in Snowdonia
• Penmachno forest trails
• Mountain biking in the Gwydir forest