Afan Forest Mountain Bike Trails

Afan Forest is one of the most established and best-known mountain bike trail centres in South Wales, offering over 100km of purpose-built MTB trails set in the Afan Valley near Port Talbot. Known for its long climbs, flowing singletrack, technical descents and epic valley views, Afan Forest delivers classic Welsh riding for all abilities - from beginners to experienced riders.

Afan Forest is famous for its longer loops compared to many UK trail centres. Expect sustained climbs rewarded with flowing descents, rocky sections and classic singletrack carved into the hillside.

The trails start and finish from Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre and Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre (further up the Afan Valley). Both venues have a car park, cafe and in-house facilities catering for all your biking needs.

Afan Forest MTB Trail Grades & Routes

Rookie Trail (Green 6.1km / Blue 2.6km)

An ideal beginner trail featuring a wide path with gentle declines. Practice technical skills in the dedicated skills area. The sectioned Rookie trail allows riders to choose their experience level. Those ready to advance can take the optional 2.6km blue loop at the end, which descends to the River Afan's hidden areas. Picnic areas are available throughout the trail.

Blue Scar Trail (Blue 7km)

A fantastic 7km trail that introduces riders to the Afan network. Requires effort but rewards with spectacular views and an exhilarating descent across the valley.

Penhydd Trail (Red 14.4km)

The 14.4km Penhydd trail begins with the Blue Scar climb from the visitor center, then continues upward when Blue Scar branches off. Its substantial climbs and recently added steep rocky sections that loop back to the starting point make this a challenging trail.

Blade Trail (Red 23km)

Start Location: Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre

The 23km Blade trail combines great singletrack sections with some of the well-established classics. Those looking for a longer loop can add in the Skyline Loop, with sections like ‘Peregrine Ridge’ and ‘Jetlag’.

Whites Level Trail (Red 15km)

Start Location: Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre

This 15.2km trail offers the park's most technical challenge, featuring winding climbs, narrow tree passages, and rocky drops on the final 'Darkside' descent. An optional black run provides big bike riders additional thrills, doubling your enjoyment.

Y Wal (The Wall) Trail (Red 23km)

Start Location: Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre

Y Wal is a swooping 20km mainly singletrack loop with epic views and hair-raising descents to keep your heartrate up all the way round. Watch out for ‘The Graveyard’ section and hold on tight for the fast final descent.

Skyline Trail (46km)

Start Location: Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre

This challenging 46km route shares the same climb as White's Level before continuing on forest road climbs and flowing technical singletrack descents. Enjoy spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons, Preselis, Black Mountains, and South Wales coast. Test your skills on technical sections like 'On the Edge' and 'Excalibur' before experiencing the thrilling 6km rocky descent back to Glyncorrwg. Two short-cut options are available. Prepare thoroughly for this epic Skyline adventure.

W2 Trail (Black 44km)

Start Location: Either Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre or Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre

W2 links Y Wal and White’s Level trails, hence the name W2, to create a 44km epic for the ultimate MTB challenge. It can be started from either of the visitor centres, with the other one providing a welcome halfway refuelling stop.

Afan Bike Park (Black Less than 5km)

Afan Bike Park has a series of 5 runs of different grades ranging from blue to black graded. The bike park has one route up and then riders have the option of choosing one of the five trails back down. The Bike Park allows riders to improve their riding skill and have hours of winding, swerving fun with berms and jumps. Car parking and refreshments are available on site at Bryn Bettws Lodge.

Nearby MTB Trails in South Wales

If you’re visiting Afan Forest, consider combining your trip with other top South Wales mountain bike destinations:

• Bike Park Wales
• Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Trails
• Cwmcarn Forest
• Margam Park MTB Trails