Skip to main content

No Mountain Biking in North Wales yet

We haven't found any mountain biking experiences in North Walesyet, but we're always adding new adventures.

Other activities in North Wales

From gnarly downhill tracks to scenic forest trails, North Wales serves up a proper slice of mountain biking heaven.

Alright, listen up, because when it comes to mountain biking, North Wales isn't just good, it's *iconic*. Forget those manicured bike park trails you find elsewhere. Here, we've got proper wild riding, proper mountains, and proper Welsh weather to keep you on your toes. If you're after a challenge, you've come to the right place. But don't be fooled; North Wales caters to all levels. From the beginner-friendly trails at Coed Llandegla to the expert-only downhill lines at Revolution Bike Park, there's something for everyone. The Marin Trail in Betws-y-Coed offers stunning views and flowy singletrack, while Penmachno is a hidden gem with challenging climbs and rewarding descents.

That being said, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The weather can turn on a dime, and some of the trails are seriously exposed. Pack accordingly, and don't underestimate the climbs – they're brutal! But trust me, the views from the top are worth every ounce of effort. Plus, the riding communities are incredibly welcoming and supportive. Hit up any trailhead on a weekend, and you'll find riders of all levels sharing tips, stories, and maybe even a puncture repair or two. If you’re serious about mountain biking, North Wales is the place to be. Come prepared, respect the trails, and you’ll have an unforgettable adventure.

April-October
Best Season
Easy to Expert
Difficulty
Free - Β£80 guided
Price Range

Best Spots for Mountain Biking in North Wales

8 spots ranked by our team. Each one researched, visited, and honestly reviewed.

1

Revolution Bike Park

Expert

Revolution Bike Park is the UK's premier downhill mountain bike park. Expect uplift service, gnarly tracks, big jumps, and seriously challenging features. Not for the faint of heart, but an absolute blast for experienced riders.

Full dayΒ£45-Β£55 per day for upliftMarch-October (check website for opening times)

Best for: Experienced downhill mountain bikers looking for a challenge.

Ample parking available at the bike park. Cost is included in uplift ticket.

Get directions to Revolution Bike Park

Insider tip: Book your uplift in advance, especially on weekends, as it often sells out.

2

Coed Llandegla (Oneplanet Adventure)

Easy|Moderate|Challenging

Coed Llandegla offers a great mix of trails for all abilities, from gentle green routes to challenging red and black runs. Excellent facilities, including a cafe, bike shop, and bike wash. A perfect starting point for mountain biking in North Wales.

2-4 hoursΒ£5-7 parking, trail access freeYear-round

Best for: Families, beginners, and intermediate riders.

Large car park at Oneplanet Adventure. Charges apply (approx Β£5-7 per day).

Get directions to Oneplanet Adventure

Insider tip: Park closer to the exit if you want to leave quickly at the end of the day. The cafe can get busy so have some snacks just in case.

3

Marin Trail (Betws-y-Coed)

Challenging

The Marin Trail is a classic North Wales mountain bike route, offering stunning views and flowy singletrack. A challenging climb is rewarded with exhilarating descents. Be prepared for rocky sections and varied terrain.

3-4 hours25km↑680mΒ£5-7 parkingMay-September

Best for: Intermediate to experienced riders looking for a classic trail ride.

Pay and display car park in Betws-y-Coed. Can get busy, especially during peak season.

Get directions to Betws-y-Coed Car Park

Insider tip: Take a breather at the top of the climb – the views are incredible. Pack a repair kit and pump – punctures are common on the rocky sections.

4

Penmachno Trails

Challenging

Penmachno is a hidden gem with two fantastic trail loops: Dolen Machno and Dolen Eryri. Expect challenging climbs, rewarding descents, and stunning views of Snowdonia. A great alternative to the more popular trails.

2-3 hours per loop19km (Dolen Machno), 11km (Dolen Eryri)↑500m (Dolen Machno), 300m (Dolen Eryri)FreeMay-September

Best for: Intermediate to experienced riders looking for a quieter trail ride.

Free parking available at the trailhead. Limited spaces, so arrive early.

Get directions to Penmachno Trailhead

Insider tip: Bring midge repellent, especially in the evenings. The descents are fast and flowy – enjoy!

5

Gwydir Mawr (formerly The Beast)

Challenging|Expert

Gwydir Mawr, close to Betws-y-Coed, features challenging climbs and demanding descents through dense forest. Expect steep gradients, technical rock gardens, and some fantastic views. Make sure your brakes are working properly!

2-3 hours26km↑750mFreeMay-September

Best for: Experienced riders looking for a technical and challenging ride.

Parking available at various points along the trail. Check trail maps for details.

Get directions to Llyn Elsi Car Park

Insider tip: The trail can be very muddy after rain, so check the weather forecast before you go. The descent to Llyn Elsi can be very slippery.

6

Clwydian Range

Moderate|Challenging

The Clwydian Range offers stunning views and varied terrain, with options for both challenging climbs and fast descents. Explore ancient hillforts and enjoy panoramic vistas of the North Wales coastline. Bring your camera!

3-5 hoursVaries depending on route↑Varies depending on routeΒ£3-5 parking at LoggerheadsApril-October

Best for: Intermediate riders looking for scenic trails and challenging climbs.

Parking available at various points along the range. Loggerheads Country Park is a good starting point.

Get directions to Loggerheads Country Park

Insider tip: Check the weather forecast before you go, as the range can be very exposed. The views from Moel Famau are incredible.

7

Clocaenog Forest

Moderate

Clocaenog Forest offers a network of forest roads and singletrack trails, perfect for exploring the Welsh countryside. Expect varied terrain, challenging climbs, and rewarding descents. A great option for a longer ride.

3-6 hoursVaries depending on route↑Varies depending on routeFreeYear-round

Best for: Intermediate riders looking for a longer ride through varied terrain.

Parking available at various points around the forest. Check trail maps for details.

Get directions to Gwydir Forest Parking

Insider tip: The forest can be very muddy after rain, so check the weather forecast before you go. Bring a map and compass, as the trails can be confusing.

8

Coastal Trails near Llandudno

Easy|Moderate

While not strictly 'mountain' biking, the coastal paths around Llandudno offer fantastic views and a more relaxed riding experience. Expect some climbs, but mostly relatively flat terrain. Great for a family ride or a scenic spin.

1-3 hoursVaries depending on route↑Varies depending on routeParking costs varyApril-October

Best for: Families, beginners, and those looking for a scenic ride with stunning coastal views.

Parking available in Llandudno and along the coast.

Get directions to Llandudno Pier

Insider tip: Stop for an ice cream in Llandudno after your ride. Check the tide times before you go, as some sections of the coastal path can be affected by high tide.

Need to Know

Weather

The weather in North Wales can be unpredictable, even in summer. Rain is common, and the mountains can be significantly colder and windier than the valleys. Check the forecast before you go, and be prepared for all conditions.

Gear Checklist

Mountain bike in good working order
Helmet – non-negotiable, protect your head!
Gloves – for grip and warmth
Appropriate clothing – layers are key, including a waterproof jacket
Bike repair kit – including spare tube, pump, and multi-tool
Water and snacks – stay hydrated and fueled!
Map or GPS device – don't get lost!
First-aid kit – be prepared for minor injuries

+2 more items

Local Gear Shops

Beics Betws

Station Buildings, Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0BL

The go-to shop in Betws-y-Coed for bike hire, sales, and repairs. Stock a good range of bikes and accessories, plus knowledgeable staff.

Oneplanet Adventure Shop

Coed Llandegla Forest, Llandegla, Wrexham LL11 3AA

Located at Coed Llandegla, this shop offers bike hire, sales, repairs, and accessories. Convenient for anyone riding the trails there.

Trek Bicycle Wrexham

Unit A1, Wrexham Technology Park, Wrexham LL13 7YP

Specializing in Trek bikes, this shop offers a wide range of bikes, clothing, and accessories. Also provides servicing and repairs.

Rutland Cycling - Porth Eirias

Porth Eirias, Promenade, Colwyn Bay LL29 8HH

Located right on the coast, this Rutland Cycling branch provides sales, hire, and repairs. Suited for coastal path and road cycling needs.

Gorilla Bikes

High Street, Llanberis LL55 4HB

An independent bike shop in Llanberis offering sales, repairs and hire.

Events & Races

Welsh Enduro Series

March-October β€’ race β€’ Β£45

A series of enduro mountain bike races held at various locations throughout Wales.

More info β†’

Marin Trail Challenge

July β€’ race β€’ Β£35

An annual mountain bike race held on the Marin Trail in Betws-y-Coed.

Red Bull Hardline

September β€’ race

One of the toughest downhill mountain bike races in the world, held in Dyfi Forest, Mid Wales. (Nearby enough to be relevant to the area)

More info β†’

Frequently Asked Questions

Coed Llandegla is a fantastic option for beginners, with well-maintained green and blue trails. The trails are relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it a great place to learn the basics.
A full day's uplift pass at Revolution Bike Park typically costs between Β£45 and Β£55. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Essential gear includes a mountain bike in good working order, a helmet, gloves, appropriate clothing (including a waterproof jacket), a bike repair kit, water, and snacks. A map or GPS device is also recommended.
Yes, Beics Betws is a well-known bike shop in Betws-y-Coed, offering bike hire, sales, and repairs. They also have a good selection of accessories and clothing.
The best time of year to go mountain biking in North Wales is from April to October. The weather is generally drier and warmer during these months, but be prepared for rain at any time of year.
Yes, several companies offer guided mountain bike tours in North Wales, including Oneplanet Adventure at Coed Llandegla. Guided tours are a great way to explore the trails and improve your skills.
The Marin Trail is located near Betws-y-Coed. The trail starts from the car park in Betws-y-Coed and is well signposted. It is a 25km loop with around 680m of elevation gain.

Explore More