The guys have been working flat out on the 4x course, helped by the recent perfect weather. Conditions have been quite dry underfoot and the sun has been shining! It dosen’t very often so you’ve got to make the most of it. Construction on is schedule! (hope i ain’t jinxed it now!!)
The course is really taking shape and the features are starting to stand out. The rock section and the Corkscrew look pretty awsome!
This is the most technical of all the trails in Afan Forest Park and is 90% purpose-built singletrack.
A 6km sheep-track climb gives fantastic views of the Afan Valley, extreme exposure on tight singletrack means ultimate thrills and long, demanding descents with rocky steps to negotiate, all leading to one outrageous trail.
The final descent is a blast with some more cheeky northshore! N-ergy is looking very interesting. A few moments initially but looking fast and showey as expected. If you are up for it try out the optional new Black Run, graded black/severe!
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Overall Grade: Red/Difficult
Distance: 17km
Time: 1.5 to 3 hours
Climb: 525mTake junction 40 off the M4 and head for Cymmer and Maesteg. At Cymmer turn left at the crossroads just before the garage signposted for Glyncorrwg, and onwards up the valley for about 2 miles.
Go past the three fishing ponds on the left and take the turn on the left signposted Caravan Park, and then left again into the car park.
Penhydd is a very varied trail which combines forest road climbs with tight, technical, switchback trails through mixed woodland.
The open, flowing singletrack also crosses young plantations opening up fantastic views.
Big climbs followed by technical descents mean that this trail can be difficult, with standout sections including Hidden Valley and the Sidewinder leading into Dead Sheep Gulley. _
The Wall Trail is a swooping 24km (14.9 miles) mainly singletrack loop with epic views of the valley and coastline opening out at different points, and in places the steep-sided slopes can feel very exposed.
The breathtaking descents keep your heart pumping all the way round. Watch out for The Graveyard section and hang on for the searingly fast final descent!
