Trail name: Blade (and optional Skyline loop)
Centre: Afan Forest park – Glyncorrwg, Skyline Trail Centre
Distance: 24km + Optional 23Km
Climbing: 795m
Time: 2.5hrs If you’re fit and fast (double for Skyline loop). 3.5hrs On average (double for Skyline loop).
Grade: Red/Difficult.
The Blade trail opened in 2014 and is a fantastic new addition to the Afan Forest Park trail network. With lots of great new singletrack sections combined with some of the well-established classics like Peregrine Ridge and Jetlag, the Blade is a great trail for more experienced riders.
It shares the same lung busting sheep track climb out of Glyncorrwg with the Whites Level trail to access higher and more remote section of the forest, with amazing views over the Brecon Beacons, before you drop back over the hill for some flowing descents and tough technical climbs, before the open final descents (Peregrine Ridge, The Rock, Jetlag, Happy life) back down to Glyncorrwg, these final descents are steep and can be quite hairy, especially in poor conditions, with rough rock and slab sections, big berms, chutes, and drop offs to finish off this 24km Red graded trail.
Those looking for a longer loop can add in the optional 23km top loop of the classic Skyline trail with some amazing views and singletrack to extend your ride. Make sure you are properly skilled as both the trails have ample technical terrain. These high remote areas can have changeable weather, proper equipment and the ability to be self-sufficient are essential.
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