Mach 1 MTB loop – slate tracks of the Dyfi Valley
Mach 1 MTB loop – slate tracks of the Dyfi Valley
4.8
(5)
33
riders
Mach 1 MTB loop – slate tracks of the Dyfi Valley
01:47
21.9km
420m
Mountain biking
This may be the shortest of the Mach loops from Machynlleth, but it still certainly packs a punch!
Head out of the centre of the town on the road that heads south through the golf course, with a gradual climb and open views that allude to the mountains ahead. Follow the road into Forge where you turn right and continue to climb up into the hills.
Look out for the little Mach 1 signs as you turn right onto a wide gravel road, still climbing up through some trees and then turning sharply left up a rocky, steep bridleway that takes a bit more oomph!
You turn direction up onto the most incredible gravel valley balcony road, which you reach after a grassy slog up the hillside. It's really worth it though, as this fantastic doubletrack yields fabulous views, and is often watched over by soaring red kites, too.
Pass through a few gates as you rapidly descend through the woodland to the T-junction, where you take a left for a really rapid gravel descent. If you can look up, you'll see gorgeous reservoir views in the distance.
A short leg on the road leads you to the next off-road section, firstly a traverse and then a long bridleway descent alongside the Llyfnant. Under the trees with a few ruts and roots, it's a spicy one!
Pick up a quiet lane to head back to the main road to Machynlleth, where a segregated cycleway leads you back into town avoiding the traffic.
Last updated: May 31, 2024
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
1.09 km
Machynlleth Golf Course Road
Highlight • Viewpoint
If you're heading into the town from the south, it's a reassuring sight as you near civilisation again after the remote 'Desert of Wales'.
Tip by
7.51 km
Valley Balcony Gravel Track (Mach 1 Loop)
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
The track is part of the Mach 1 mountain biking loop, but is also great on a gravel bike or sturdy tourer.
Tip by
14.0 km
Llyfnant Forest Descent
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
With dappled light through the trees in strong sunlight and some small roots and ruts to navigate, it's an absolute blast on gravel bikes and mountain bikes alike, and goes on much longer than you'd expect!
Tip by
21.7 km
Machynlleth Clock Tower
Highlight • Settlement
The area is inspiring. Just outside the town is the small summer house where Robert Plant and Jimmy Page are said to have written some songs for their band Led Zeppelin.
There are plenty of hotels and a campsite nearby.
Tip by
21.9 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.86 km
8.68 km
2.36 km
1.33 km
649 m
Surfaces
8.68 km
7.12 km
6.07 km
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (10 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 16 July
27°C
11°C
2 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Comments
August 5, 2021
This may be the shortest of the Mach loops from Machynlleth, but it still certainly packs a punch!
Head out of the centre of the town on the road that heads south through the golf course, with a gradual climb and open views that allude to the mountains ahead. Follow the road into Forge where you turn
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