Colgie, Nev and H headed to Nant-yr-Arian to ride the Syfydrin trail at Nant-yr-Arian, a good mix of man-made singletrack and remote natural trails. Suds was also supposed to join, but a night of overindulgence with Uni mates meant a no show!
It was a very cold and foggy drive and things weren't looking good, but just before we arrived, we emerged into the sunshine that would be with us for the rest of the day. After some faffing from Colgie as he donned his new winter gear, we were away and tackling the first singletrack section: "Italian Job".
Colgie rides "Italian Job" at Nant-yr-Arian (No sound)
From here we headed out on some natural trails which have a really remote feel. These trails also include some fantastic doubletrack descents, with a mix of loose rocks and bedrock to keep things interesting!
Nev and Colgie on the doubltrack at Nant-yr-Arian
We paused for some provisions prior to a large natural climb and had a good view of some sights common to Mid-Wales, Red Kites and windfarms!
Red kites and windfarms near Nant-yr-Arian
Picnic time on the natural part of the Syfydrin trail at Nant-yr-Arian
The climb was quite tough, with a bit of a headwind, and seemed to go on and on. We kept going though, and eventually we were back to the civilisation of man-made trails.
Colgie nearing the top of a natural climb at Nant-yr-Arian
The first of these was "Hippity Hop", which was a good blast in the sunshine.
Nev and Colgie ride "Hippity Hop" at Nant-yr-Arian
After another natural section, we moved on to the massive "Mask of Zorro" man-made descent, and the equally massive "Leg Burner" climb. It wasn't steep, but that was part of the problem.... It just went on and on at a steady gradient. We all found it really tough on tired legs, and were ready for a break at the top.
Colgie and Nev reach the top of the unpleasantly long "Leg Burner" climb at Nant-yr-Arian
After a bit more climbing, we were ready for the final two sections of man-made singletrack: "Drunken Druid" and "High as a Kite". Within no time, we were back at the visitor centre enjoying an excellent warm shower and tucking into panini / jacket potatoes prior to the drive home - another good winter ride!
