Mountain Biking in North Wales
Forest trails, singletrack and remote riding around Betws-y-Coed and beyond
Mountain Biking Around Betws-y-Coed
Betws-y-Coed and the surrounding area are at the heart of mountain biking in North Wales.
The nearby Gwydir Forest offers an extensive network of trails, ranging from wide forest roads to technical singletrack, linking together quiet valleys, hillsides and remote moorland.
This is an area that rewards exploration, with a huge variety of riding available — but it also requires some planning. Trails are not always clearly marked, and mapping does not always reflect the true nature of the terrain.
For this reason, local knowledge and reliable navigation are highly recommended.
Suggested Mountain Bike Routes
Below you’ll find a selection of mapped mountain bike routes in and around Betws-y-Coed and Gwydir Forest. These routes vary in distance and difficulty, from steady forest tracks to more technical and remote rides.
Route 1 – Llyn Elsi Short
Route 1 – Llyn Elsi Short, Favourite half day ride for Manual Bikes Description of Ride This is the shortest ride on our list, it is not a flat ride so will require some effort in places.There are no flat easy rides in this area as the village is at the bottom of a valley, […]
Route 2 – Llyn Elsi Short
Route 2 – Llyn Elsi Short, Favourite half day ride for Manual Bikes Description of Ride This is the 2nd shortest ride on our list, it is not a flat ride so will require some effort in places.There are no flat easy rides in this area as the village is at the bottom of a […]
Route 3 – Sarn Helen
Route 3 – Sarn Helen, Favourite day ride for manual bikes / Ebikes Description of Ride This is a circular ride full of surprises. This is easily the most popular day ride on our list, it is not a flat ride so will require some effort in places. A video of the ride can be […]
Route 4 – Sarn Helen Long
Route 4 – Sarn Helen Long Favourite day ride for Ebikes Description of Ride This is the extended ride of our most popular day ride (Route 03), it is not a flat ride so will require some effort in places. This is a circular ride full of surprises. The riding surface varies from smooth to […]
Route 5
Route 5 – Roman Road Sarn Helen 3rd shortest ride on our list Description of Ride This is the 3rd shortest ride on our list, it is not a flat ride so will require some effort in places.There are no flat easy rides in this area as the village is at the bottom of a […]
Route 6
Route 6 – Sarn Helen – Lledr valley Description of Ride This is a ride for fit cyclist, there are some challenging hills on this ride. The first km as you leave the village is on the road this is unavoidable unfortunately. The first 200metres after leaving the road is tough as this is steeply […]
Route 7a – 2 Lakes
Route 7a – 2 Lakes Favourite half day ride for Ebikes Description of Ride Two Lakes, Llyn Crafnant + Llyn Geirionydd. This is a favourite route for half day Ebike rides. There are 3 big climbs which the Ebikes handle very well. This is a favourite route for half day Ebike rides. There are 3 […]
Route 7b – 2 Lakes
Route 7b – 2 Lakes Favourite half day ride for Ebikes Description of Ride This is a favourite route for half day Ebike rides. There are 2 big climbs which the Ebikes handle very well. Sometimes this is treated as a day ride on Ebikes as riders take an extended time at Llyn Geirionydd for […]
Route 7c – Two Lakes via Sawbench
Route 7c – Two Lakes via Sawbench Llyn Parc + Llyn Geirionydd Description of Ride This is a route for half day / 3hr Ebike rides. There are 2 big climbs which the Ebikes handle very well. Sometimes this ride may evolve into a day ride on Ebikes as riders may take an extended time […]
Route 8 – 3 Lakes
Route 8 – 3 Lakes Favourite day ride for Ebikes Description of Ride Three Lakes Llyn Geirionydd, Llyn Crafnant and Llyn Elsi. Only very fit riders should attempt this on a non Ebike. This is a Big Day ride, most suited for Ebikes. There are 4 big climbs which the Ebikes handle very well. The […]
Route 9
Route 9 – The Tough Ride The Big Day ride, Description of Ride This is a Big Day ride, most suited for Ebikes. Consisting of 3 main climbs on a mostly Forest type of ride, no lakes or Waterfalls, excellent views of the different valleys and of Moel Siabod. The only café on this ride […]
Route 10
Route 10 – a long climb up Description of Ride This is a medium / Long Day ride, most suited for Ebikes. Consisting of 2 main climbs, the first half of the first climb is on a quiet road. The second half of the first climb is on a long forest ramp that takes you […]
Route 11 – Big Tour
Route 11 – Big Tour Favourite Day ride for Ebikes Description of Ride This is a Long Day ride, most suited for Ebikes. Consisting of 4 main climbs, the first half of the first climb is on a quiet road. The second half of the first climb is on a long forest ramp that takes […]
Route 12
Route 12 – a relatively easy ride Description of Ride This is a relatively easy ride as there is more Downhill than Uphill riding. The ride can be started from Joe Browns at Capel Curig or Ogwen Cottage for a very easy and relaxing journey down to Porth Penrhyn on the coast. Video of ride […]
Riding in Gwydir Forest
The Gwydir Forest area provides a mix of terrain that makes it one of the most varied mountain biking locations in Wales.
Riders can expect:
- forest fire roads and long climbs
- flowing singletrack sections
- rocky and technical trails
- remote moorland tracks with wide open views
In general, individual riders are permitted to ride on most forest tracks and bridleways. However, designated footpaths should be avoided.
Navigation & GPX Routes
Due to the complexity of the trail network, reliable navigation is essential.
Bike Wales has mapped a number of routes in the area and can provide GPX files for use on:
- GPS bike computers
- smartphone navigation apps
For added convenience, we also offer Garmin bike navigation devices with routes pre-loaded, making it easy to follow your chosen ride without worrying about getting lost.
Plan Your Ride in & around Betws Y Coed now
If you’re visiting the area and would like help choosing a route or hiring a bike, we’re always happy to help.
WhatsApp :
Call or send message
Bike Hire for MTB Routes
We offer mountain bikes suitable for the terrain in and around Betws-y-Coed and Gwydir Forest.
Depending on your riding plans, you may choose:
- hardtail mountain bikes for general trail riding
- electric mountain bikes for longer distances and climbs
can help you select the right bike for your route and experience level.
Important Safety Information
Plan Ahead & Ride Prepared
Mountain biking in this area can feel remote and wild, particularly once you move away from the main routes.
It’s important to be prepared before setting out.
Always consider:
- limited or no mobile phone reception in many areas
- changing weather conditions, especially in higher ground
- longer response times for emergency services
- variable trail conditions depending on weather
We recommend carrying:
- a basic first aid kit
- a puncture repair kit and tools
- sufficient food and water
- appropriate clothing for the conditions
It’s also good practice to let someone know your planned route and expected return time.