Glyncorrwg Blade Climb
Glyncorrwg Blade Climb
Tips
July 18, 2019
Mountain biking
July 29, 2019
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Glyncorrwg Blade Climb
4.6
(26)
653
riders
46.0km
04:13
820m
820m
Prepare for a demanding mountain biking adventure on the W2 Black loop, a difficult trail covering 28.6 miles (46.0 km) with a significant 2690 feet (820 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 12 minutes navigating its diverse terrain. The route winds through the dense woodlands of Afan Valley, offering thrilling descents and challenging rocky sections. Look forward to fast-flowing singletrack and technical lines, including the unique Energy Boardwalk at White's Level, which provides reliable traction. As you climb, expansive vistas open up, showcasing the vast landscape from the ridges.
Accessing the W2 Black loop is straightforward, with the Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre serving as a primary starting point. Here, you will find essential amenities such as a cafe, bike shop for any last-minute needs, bike hire, and convenient toilets and showers. Alternatively, parking is also available at the Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre and Campsite. This route is best suited for advanced mountain bikers who possess good fitness and technical skills.
This challenging route is a highlight within Afan Forest Park, known for its world-class mountain biking. The W2 Black loop is officially graded as "black severe" or "black diamond," indicating its technical demands and suitability for experienced riders. Its varied features, from the Energy Boardwalk to the ridge-top views, make it a notable and rewarding experience for those seeking a true test of their abilities in a beautiful forest setting.
4.5
(13)
341
riders
15.8km
01:26
320m
330m
Get ready for a demanding mountain biking adventure on the White's Level loop. This difficult 9.8-mile (15.8 km) route challenges you with a significant 1056 feet (322 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. You'll navigate purpose-built singletrack, including a technical 6-kilometre climb known as the 'sheep track,' which winds through trees and features rocky drops. As you ascend, panoramic views of the Afan Valley unfold, leading to an exciting descent with technical sections like the 'Darkside,' characterized by its rocky drops and stone staircases.
Before you set out, know that the White's Level loop is graded Red/Difficult, making it best suited for experienced mountain bikers; beginners should consider other options. There's even an optional Black/Severe section if you're looking for an extra challenge. You can easily start your ride from the Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre and Campsite, where ample parking is available. While the estimated duration is 1 hour and 26 minutes, experienced riders often take between 1.5 to 3 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
This trail stands out as one of the most technical mountain biking routes within the entire Afan Valley. Its design focuses on providing a challenging cross-country experience, with 90% of the route consisting of dedicated singletrack. The combination of sustained climbs, varied terrain, and technical descents makes it a true test of skill and endurance. It's a prime destination for those seeking a rigorous and rewarding ride in the region.
4.8
(11)
311
riders
23.9km
02:26
530m
540m
Get ready for a challenging mountain biking adventure on the Blade Red Trail, a difficult route spanning 14.9 miles (23.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1744 feet (532 metres). This trail, which typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete, winds through a luscious green forest, offering incredibly fun and flowy machine-built singletrack. You'll encounter a mix of tough technical climbs and fast flowing descents, with sections like 'Groovy Gully' and 'Ghost Train' testing your skills. As you climb out of Glyncorrwg, you'll be treated to great views down the valley, and later, amazing views over the Brecon Beacons. The varied forest landscape provides a constantly changing backdrop for your ride.
To start your ride, head to the Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre, which serves as the official starting point and provides amenities for riders. The trail shares its initial "sheep track climb" out of Glyncorrwg with the White's Level trail, offering a fantastic singletrack climbing challenge right from the start. This route is categorized as "Red / Difficult," meaning you'll need a good level of fitness and advanced riding skills to tackle it. Be prepared for some sections that might be so challenging you may need to push your bike.
The Blade Red Trail is a relatively modern addition to the Afan Forest Park network, having opened in 2014. It has quickly become a significant part of the Afan Valley's extensive mountain biking offerings, solidifying the area's reputation as one of the UK's premier mountain biking destinations. If you're looking for a longer experience, you can extend your ride by connecting to the 23-kilometer 'Skyline' trail loop, which offers additional singletrack and breathtaking views, including sections like 'Peregrine Ridge' and 'Jetlag'.
Details
Informations
Distance 2.36 km
Uphill 110 m
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Wednesday 10 June
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