Cwmcarn, Trail Centre, South Wales

Cwmcarn in South Wales is just outside Newport within easy access of the M4, not far over the Severn Bridge, which provides easy access from Bristol, Cheltenham, Swindon, London, Birmingham etc...

Comprising of hard pack the trails are stand up in most weather conditions The trails start with a serious climb, however once you're up the rewarding descents and views are worth it.

Routes at Cwmcarn

Twrch

This is a superb trail of the very highest quality that is not for the faint hearted. Virtually the entire route is on a purpose built singletrack through a mixture of broadleaf and conifer woodlands and open ridge tops.

The riding varies from open and flowing hard pack to tight technical and rooty and is rideable in all weather. In places the trail hugs the sides of some very steep wooded side slopes, demanding concentration, whilst in others it sweeps along open ground giving you the chance to take in dramatic views of the Bristol Channel and the surrounding hills.

Cafall

Climbing up to altitudes over 600 metres this 15km trail gives you a real sense of adventure. With some tough climbs and tight hand-built singletrack sections combined with some fantastic technical descents it’s definitely for those with more experience.

You will be rewarded with some amazing riding and views of the surrounding area on this trail that will take you out into some of the more remote areas of Cwmcarn Forest. Make sure you are self-sufficient and expect weather changes on this technical and tough ride.

Y Mynydd Downhill

Y Mynydd Downhill isn't for the faint-hearted. Loads of berms, a few switch backs, doubles, a tunnel, rock steps, the bridge, hip jump, then there's the quarry gap if you've got the guts, and the bottom section which is just nuts, totally flat out. Designed by Phil Saxena of 'Full Contact Racing' and built by local riders including Rowan Sorrell, means this is one of the best downhill venues in the UK.

The course is split into two runs, the 2-light run and the 3-light run, which merge about a third of the way down the mountain. The whole course is rollable, as long as you're careful. There are some really big jumps at Cwmcarn, but you can easily go round them if you want to. However, if you do like to fly then you're in for a real treat.

Links

Cwmdown uplift
Cwmcarn Forest