Mountain & Gravel Biking

These are just some of the best locations and routes for mountain and gravel biking in and around Betws-y-Coed:

Gwydir Forest (including the Gwydir Mawr and Gwydir Bach trails)

(near Trefriw, Llanrwst and Betws-y-Coed)

Gravel biking in Gwydir Forest

Gwydir Forest Park surrounds Betws-y-Coed and is a premier destination for gravel biking, offering an extensive network of wide forestry tracks and rugged fire roads.

These trails wind through ancient woodlands and climb high into the hills, revealing hidden gems like Llyn Parc and Llyn Geirionydd.

The hard-packed gravel paths provide the perfect balance of rolling speed and off-road adventure, allowing riders to escape the traffic and explore historic lead mining ruins along the way.

Gwydir Mawr

Formerly known as ‘The Marin Trail’, the Gwydir Mawr trail delivers an epic adventure that will test your skills and stamina.

This 25km circular route offers thrilling singltrack descents, technical challenges, and rewarding climbs.

As you traverse the trail, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Eryri | Snowdonia, the Isle of Anglesey, and even the distant peaks of the Lake District.

Gwydir Bach

The shorter Gwydir Bach trail is a 8.7km loop taking between 45 to 90 minutes to complete.

The starting point for both is just outside the town of Llanrwst, not far from both Trefriw and Betws-y-Coed.

Penmachno Trails

(near Betws-y-Coed)

These trails not far from Betws-y-Coed are definitely a hidden gem in North Wales!

They are very remote and there are no facilities, but this adds to the drama and enjoyment when riding on them and you are guaranteed spectacular views of Eryri | Snowdonia.

The two red-graded loops can be ridden individually or you can complete one long 30km loop: Dolen Machno is 19km and Dolen Eryri is 11km.

Antur Stiniog

(Blaenau Ffestiniog)

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, North Wales boasts exciting bike parks with uplift services that will push your limits.

Antur Stiniog in Blaenau Ffestiniog is just 20 minutes from Betws-y-Coed – a gravity-focused mountain biking center, featuring 14 thrilling downhill trails graded from green to black, and a dedicated uplift service.

The park’s technical descents and challenging features guarantee an exhilarating experience especially for advanced riders.

The on-site visitor centre has a cafe, bike shop, showers and bike wash facilities.

Where to go for bike repairs in and around Betws-y-Coed

If your bike needs a bit of attention during your visit then there are two great places to go for repairs:

Conwy Valley Bicycle Workshop – Betws-y-Coed

Betws Bike Workshop at Alpkit – Betws-y-Coed