Start: Machynlleth
Distance: 122 miles (196km)
Terrain: On/Off road
Bike Types: Mountain bike
Grading: Difficult
The Traws Eryri trail starts in the mid-Wales town of Machynlleth, through the Eryri National Park to Conwy. This new route was funded by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), and created by Cycling UK over a three period. During this time Cycling UK sought the advice of local communities and cyclists for advice on the best possible routesand then negoitaited access with landowners. The trail can be done in four to five days by experienced cyclists or can be done in sections using the railway stations at Machynlleth, Barmouth, Betws-y-Coed and Conwy.
The Traws Eryri is a relatively short route but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in climbing. It has over 4,424m of ascent with some very steep climbs. Long steep climbs mean some exhilarating decents. Some of these are steep and technically difficult so make sure you are comfortable with your chosen bike and it has effective brakes! The winding nature of the route means there are often shortcut options at many points of the route in case the weather turns bad. Most of the trails on the route have a stony base meaning the route can be used in most weather conditions.
The Traws Eryri route has been designed to be ridden with mountain bikes. The steep climbs and decents and rough surfaces are best ridden on MTB’s with low gears, suspension and fat tyres. If using a mountain bike you can also tryout some of the purpose-built mountain bike trails at Dyfi Forest, Coed y Brenin, Penmachno and Gwydir Forest. Although not recommended it is possible to ride on a gravel bike. If using an electric bike you may need a spare battery or plan ahead to find recharging points.
There are several bike shops along the route but make sure your bike is in good working order before starting the trail. Be as self sufficient as possible. Carry spare inner tubes, quick links and tools. A first aid kit is also advisable. We recommend using bikepacking bags rather than panniers which are likey to get snagged on rocks. Ensure you have suitable clothing for all weather conditions and even an emergency survival bag. Take plenty of food a drink. Let someone know of your route and the times you are expected at various points.
The Traws Eryri trail isnt signposted as well as some other routes so its best to use the GPX file loaded onto a suitable device. Be aware that the phone signal can be patchy in places.
Traws Eryri Route Map & GPX
Traws Eryri Accommodation
Pen-Y-Bont Hotel, Talyllyn, Tywyn. We provide Bed and Breakfast within a 16th Century Coaching Inn. You can also
Llwyn Lodgings, Penegoes.Machynlleth . Campsite is for tents exclusively with showers and loos. Comfortable bedrooms also available in the lodgings.
Siabod Huts Self Catering. Snowdonia. Siabod Huts provides the very best self catering cycle friendly accommodation in Snowdonia. Visit us to find out more about our options.
Hafan Artro Hotel. Llanbedr, Gwynedd. Luxury 6 bedroom hotel nestled in the beautiful Snowdonia National Park.
Afon Rhaiadr Luxury Boutique B&B, Dolgellau. Luxury Boutique Bed and Breakfast at the foot of Cader Idris, in the heart of the Snowdonia.
More Information
For further information visit: cyclinguk.org/traws-eryri
