The best MTB trails around Alwen Reservoir

There are over 10 mountain bike trails around Alwen Reservoir, offering a range of experiences from easy to moderate difficulty. The area is known for its car-free routes and diverse terrain within the Hiraethog Forest.

The trails feature a mix of surfaces, including wide forest roads, single gravel trails, and narrower tracks. You'll encounter undulating terrain with some climbs and descents, providing varied riding through conifer forests, moorlands, and along the reservoir's edge.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Alwen Trail itself is largely graded as easy to moderate. One specific easy route is Llyn Brenig Dam – Llyn Brenig loop from Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, which is 13 miles (20.9 km) long.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a longer adventure, routes like A circuit of Clocaenog Forest and the Alwen and Brenig Reservoirs offer a substantial 29.9 miles (48.1 km) ride through extensive forest, linking both reservoirs. Another challenging option is Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre – Llyn Brenig loop from Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, which is 30.8 miles (49.6 km) long.

You'll encounter diverse scenery, from the tranquil waters of Alwen Reservoir (the largest man-made lake in Wales) to the expansive Hiraethog Forest and moorlands. The historic Alwen Dam, with its Italian-style valve tower, is a notable architectural feature. Many trails offer stunning views across the reservoir and towards the distant Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including rare birds and elusive red squirrels.

Yes, many routes around Alwen Reservoir are circular. The Alwen Trail itself is a popular circular route around the reservoir. A great example is Alwen Dam – View of Alwen Reservoir loop from Alwen Dam, a 10.9 miles (17.5 km) trail that provides a scenic loop through varied terrain.

Yes, the Alwen Trail connects to the nearby Llyn Brenig via the 'Two Lakes Link Trail' and the 'Two Lakes Trail'. This allows for extended routes, offering up to 14.1 miles of additional riding and enhancing the overall visitor experience with more amenities at Llyn Brenig.

Yes, parking is available at Alwen Reservoir, often near the Alwen Dam, which serves as a common starting point for many trails. Specific parking details can usually be found on local signage or visitor information boards upon arrival.

While Alwen Reservoir itself has limited direct facilities, the nearby Llyn Brenig, which is connected by trails, offers a visitor center with amenities such as a café and toilets. This makes it a convenient stop for refreshments and facilities during a longer ride connecting the two lakes.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Hiraethog Forest and around Alwen Reservoir, but they should be kept under close control, especially near livestock or wildlife. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions or requirements, particularly regarding lead usage.

The mountain bike trails around Alwen Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the quiet, car-free routes, the diverse terrain, and the stunning views across the reservoir and surrounding moorlands.

The trails are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, while winter rides can be invigorating, though appropriate gear for potentially wet and cold conditions is essential.

Yes, the trails offer numerous viewpoints. As you cycle, you'll find elevated positions on the moorlands providing stunning panoramas across Alwen Reservoir and towards the distant Eryri National Park mountains. The Alwen Dam itself also offers impressive views of the lake and surrounding landscape.