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United Kingdom
Wales
North Wales
Denbighshire

Llyn Brenig

The best MTB trails around Llyn Brenig

4.4

(13)

121

riders

13

rides

Mountain biking around Llyn Brenig offers a diverse landscape in the Denbigh Moors of North Wales, characterized by upland scenery, forests, and moorland. The area features a large artificial lake, Llyn Brenig, which serves as a central point for many routes. Terrain includes wide gravel roads, flowing doubletrack, and some singletrack, with elevations reaching around 1200 feet. The region provides a mix of flat sections around the reservoir and more challenging inclines into the surrounding hills.

Best mountain bike trails…

Last updated: April 25, 2026

3.0

(1)

5

riders

#1.

Llyn Brenig – Alwen Dam loop from Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre

51.4km

04:25

830m

820m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Llyn Brenig

A hidden jewel of North Wales — cycling Llyn Brenig

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A hidden jewel of North Wales — cycling Llyn Brenig

Mountain Biking Collection by

Katherine Moore

Tips from the Community

JohnHago
May 18, 2025, Alwen Reservoir and Trail

A good walk or ride. Easily achievable on a cheap MTB or a gravel bike. It's mostly gravel, which makes it a good all-weather route.

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You can head back to llyn brenig before you get to the section as a short cut, this but is not to be missed. Flows really nice, cutting through some old forest before a fun section along the lake.

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Kentishbob
August 5, 2024, Llyn Brenig

Though it was not a tough or technical ride, it did take me into territory I had never visited before and was a lovely antidote to the 'fleshpots' of Gwydir Forest or Coed-y-Brenin. Some lovely gentle singletrack, beautiful views and I didn't see another rider for the whole trip - although tbh I did set off at 08.30 on a Wednesday!!

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Alwen Reservoir is the largest human-made lake in Wales and it makes for a lovely walk. There's a car park at its eastern end and the 6-mile (10 km) loop of the reservoir is wonderfully scenic and suitable for the whole family. The mixture of lake views, woodland and open moorland make it a real treat.

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This bridge across the 900-acre (364 ha) Alwen Reservoir enables a beautiful and tranquil loop of the Wales' largest artificial lake. The views across the water and to the surrounding woodland and hills are lovely.

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The grand, ornate stone dam of Alwen Reservoir couldn't be more of a contrast to the neighbouring Llyn Brenig Dam. It's well worth taking a minute or two to take in this magnificent feat of engineering, that was completed in 1920. The reservoir here was built to provide drinking water for Liverpool and the Wirral.

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Explore over 2500 acres of forest, moorland and lakes amid stunning upland scenery. With visitor centre, café, gift shop, osprey exhibition, adventure playground, cycle hire, mountain biking, walking trails, sailing and world class fishing to discover. Perfect cycling conditions for all ages and abilities. Hire from a wide range of bikes or bring your own ride. Enjoy a gentle family ride on an e-bike or an exhilarating mountain bike adventure.

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Llyn Brenig is a reservoir located on Denbigh Moors in North Wales. The artificial lake, which was constructed between 1973 and 1976, was created by building an embankment dam across the Afon Brenig valley. It lies at 1,200 ft above sea level on the border between the counties of Conwy and Denbighshire.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of mountain bike trails can I expect around Llyn Brenig?

The trails around Llyn Brenig offer a diverse mix of terrain, including wide gravel roads, flowing doubletrack, and some exhilarating singletrack sections. You'll find routes that combine forest tracks, hardcore surfaces, and waterside paths, catering to various skill levels.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for families or beginners in Llyn Brenig?

Yes, Llyn Brenig is well-suited for families and beginners. There are several easy routes, such as the View of Alwen Reservoir – Alwen Dam loop, which is 14.0 miles (22.6 km) with gentle climbs and descents. The Brenig Trail, a 9.5-mile (15 km) circuit around the lake, is also mostly easy and flat, though it does include one steep incline.

How many mountain bike trails are available in the Llyn Brenig area?

There are over 10 mountain bike routes documented on komoot for the Llyn Brenig area, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. The region also features seven official waymarked cycle routes, offering a good variety for exploration.

What are the typical distances and durations for mountain biking routes around Llyn Brenig?

Routes vary significantly. For example, the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre – Llyn Brenig loop is a longer ride at 30.8 miles (49.6 km) and typically takes around 4 hours 15 minutes. Shorter options like the Llyn Brenig Dam – Llyn Brenig loop cover 13.0 miles (20.9 km) in about 1 hour 47 minutes.

What kind of elevation gain can I expect on Llyn Brenig mountain bike trails?

While many routes around the reservoir are relatively flat, some trails venture into the surrounding hills, offering more significant climbs. For instance, the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre – Llyn Brenig loop involves an elevation gain of approximately 797 meters (2,615 feet).

Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Llyn Brenig?

Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the 9.5-mile (15 km) Brenig Trail that circumnavigates Llyn Brenig, offering continuous scenic views. The Alwen Reservoir – Alwen Reservoir and Trail loop is another circular route, covering 11.2 miles (18 km).

What points of interest or natural features can I see while mountain biking in Llyn Brenig?

Llyn Brenig offers stunning upland scenery with forests, moorland, and the large reservoir itself. You might spot ospreys nesting from spring to late August, as the area is a wildlife haven. There are also Bronze Age archaeological remains, including a ring cairn and barrows, which can be explored via dedicated trails. The visitor center provides panoramic views and an osprey exhibition.

Is there parking available for mountain bikers at Llyn Brenig?

Yes, parking is available at the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, which serves as a convenient starting point for many of the mountain bike trails. The visitor center also offers facilities like bike hire and a free bike wash station.

What facilities are available at the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre?

The Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre provides a range of facilities including a cafe with panoramic views, a gift shop, an osprey exhibition, and an adventure playground. You can also find bike hire services, including electric bikes, and a free bike wash station. Essential amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are also available.

Can I rent a mountain bike at Llyn Brenig?

Yes, bike hire services, including electric bikes, are available at the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, making it convenient for visitors who don't bring their own equipment.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Llyn Brenig?

The mountain bike routes in Llyn Brenig are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the stunning waterside views, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.

Is Llyn Brenig accessible by public transport for cyclists?

While Llyn Brenig is nestled in the Denbigh Moors, public transport options directly to the visitor center are limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car or arrange private transport to access the trails conveniently.

Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails around Llyn Brenig?

Llyn Brenig is generally dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs under control, especially due to the presence of wildlife and livestock in the surrounding moorland. Always check local signage for specific restrictions on certain paths or areas.

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