Have a look at the epic new 122-mile Trans Snowdonia cycling route in Wales

The United Kingdom welcomes its latest addition to the realm of long-distance cycling routes in Wales. Traws Eryri, meaning “Trans Snowdonia” in Welsh, offers cyclists an enthralling journey spanning 122 miles (196km) through the untamed landscapes of North Wales. Designed by Cycling UK, known for crafting other iconic routes such as King Alfred’s Way, the Great North Trail, and West Kernow Way, this trail promises not only breathtaking scenery but also a boost to local businesses.

This multi-day odyssey navigates through the less-traveled corners of Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri, formerly known as Snowdonia National Park. It winds through diverse terrains, including the enchanting Mawddach Estuary, the ancient forests of Coed y Brenin and Gwydir, and echoes of North Wales’ once-thriving slate mining heritage. Spanning a total ascent of 4,424 meters, over four times the elevation of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) from sea level, the route is a testament to the daring spirit of adventure seekers. Cycling UK estimates that competent riders equipped with specialized off-road bikes, such as mountain or gravel bikes, will complete the journey in four to five days.

Riding through spectacular Nant Ffrancon on Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route

Heading over the hill from Llyn Crafnant to Capel Curig on Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route

“North Wales is undoubtedly the adventure capital of Britain, boasting remarkable mountain biking trail centers,” says Sarah Mitchell, the chief executive of Cycling UK. “Traws Eryri aims to beckon people beyond the confines of the forests, encouraging exploration of the National Park through sustainable, active means.”

This project, conceived in collaboration with Natural Resources Wales (NRW), was carefully constructed over three years. Cycling UK engaged with local communities and off-road enthusiasts to determine the optimal path. Negotiations with landowners resulted in newly designated cycling access on appropriate sections of the trail, seamlessly weaving the route together.

Finishing Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route at Conwy Castle

Descending towards the sea at Conwy on Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route

“The Traws Eryri route represents a remarkable collaboration with Cycling UK, harnessing local knowledge to create a sustainable tourism gem,” says John Taylor, NRW’s North West Wales team leader for recreation, noted. “Blending public rights of way with existing tracks, the route bridges mountain bike trail centers to offer a more extensive, wilderness-infused cycling experience.”

The economic potential of cycle tourism cannot be understated. The UK sees an influx of £520 million annually through cycle tourism spending, with 1.23 million overnight trips boosting small businesses, contributing £433 million to the economy. An investigation into the King Alfred’s Way, launched by Cycling UK in 2020, disclosed that cyclists spend an average of £83.60 daily on sustenance and accommodations. Cycling UK is hopeful that Traws Eryri will replicate this pattern, invigorating the Welsh hospitality sector along the trail.

Heading over the hill from Llyn Crafnant to Capel Curig on Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route

Road beside Llynnau Cregennen on Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route

Riders pause for a break at Llynnau Cregennen on Cycling UK’s Traws Eryri route

“As Cycling UK has discovered, routes like Traws Eryri not only allure outdoor enthusiasts but also invigorate rural economies through passing trade,” says Mitchell. “As you traverse Traws Eryri, light traveling is recommended to ascend the hills, capitalizing on local shops, pubs, and tea rooms encountered along the way – many nestled off the well-beaten path.”

Traws Eryri stands as a testament to Cycling UK’s broader ambition to establish an extensive network of long-distance off-road routes throughout Great Britain. This marks the seventh long-distance cycling route launched by the organization since unveiling the North Downs Way riders’ route in 2018.

For enthusiasts seeking to embark on this memorable adventure, detailed route information and a downloadable bilingual guide can be accessed on the Cycling UK website at cyclinguk.org/traws-eryri.