Mach 3 MTB loop – slate tracks of the Dyfi Valley

Mach 3 is the longest of the three cross-country style adventure routes out of Machynlleth, and also features the technical descent known as ‘The Chute’. If you’re heading out on this ride, make sure you take plenty of snacks with you as you certainly won’t find anywhere else to refuel along the way in these remote hills of the Northern Cambrian Mountains!

Mach 3 follows the same route as Mach 2 for the first 6 miles (10 km), featuring a road pedal out of Machynlleth through the golf course, climbing through the lanes and the gravel bridleway climb through the fields. The steep slate chute at the end here will prepare you a little for what’s to come.

Next, you’ll continue south, deeper into the mountains, following the wide slate gravel tracks through the forest. These lead you up the valley side towards Mynydd Bychan, popping out onto the moorland tracks at the loop’s most southerly and highest point.

The good news is that it’s almost all downhill as you head back north to Machynlleth, rumbling back over the open hilltops to start. The Chute comes up next and will be a test of any rider’s skill, especially in the wet when it can be slippery. Do take a moment to take in the views here though, as they are second to none.

As if that wasn’t good enough, the fantastic balcony gravel road is up next, shared by all the Mach MTB loops, leading you back to the north towards Machynlleth. Head west next for a stint on the Trans Cambrian Way, finishing with the Llyfnant forested singletrack descent before the lane and cycleway complete your loop back into town.