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Alwen Trail

About Alwen Trail

The Alwen Trail was formally opened on the 21st July 2006 creating new access for walkers and cyclists to enjoy the Denbigh Moor. The trail was a joint venture between the Forestry Commissions and it’s partners. This new easy-to-follow, waymarked, circular route around the Alwen Reservoir is approximately 7.5 miles (11 Km) You will follow forestry tracks and paths along the water’s edge and upto the moorland of Mynydd Hiraethog. The scenery around the reservoir is wonderfully varied with a beautiful section along the waters edge, from the position high on the moorlands there are stunning landscape views. Along the way you will encounter 6 illustrated panels, providing information of the wildlife, culture and folk tales associated with the area, including the story of ‘Freckled Fairy Cow’. Many reminders from the past are scattered along the trail; for the nature lovers there are rare species of Birds, Insects and the elusive Red Squirrels. Links have also been created to the established, nearby Brenig Trail, providing 20 miles of continuous walking and cycling for all abilities, particularly suitable for families.

How to get there:

Alwen Trail can be started from Alwen Dam in Alwen which is part of Hiraethog Forest. Cerrigydrudion is the nearest town or village.

Following the B4501 northwards from Cerrigydrudion there is a signed left turn into the forest shortly after the Pont yr Alwen junction. Follow the forest road through smallholding and take the first left to park adjacent to the dam.

OS Grid Reference: SH955530
For details of public transport visit http://www.traveline-cymru.info/

Wildlife

Mammals: Though extemely shy, Red Squirrels are present in the forests on both shores of the reservoir. Fallow deer are also present, but in very low numbers. We have information about Red squirrel and Fallow deer

Birds: The trail passes close to a couple of Black Grouse lekking areas. We have information about Black grouse

Habitats: Hiraethog SSSI is Upland Blanket Bog. We have information about Upland bog

Family on a cycling trail round the Alwen reservoir

Grade of trail:
Moderate
Trail waymarking:
Length of trail:
7.5 miles
Approximate time of trail:
walk 3 hrs cycling 2 hrs
Open or closed:
open
Click here to find out what else you can do in this forest.

Contact:

Steve Crosby
Local Area Manager
0300 068 0300
e-mail: steve.crosby@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

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What's of interest

Warning - Trails can become slippery due to adverse weather conditions. Please take extra care when in the forest. Suitable footwear should be worn at all times.

Please check before you visit that the area you want to come to is not closed, due to work in progress or an event taking place, by logging on to the CCW Website for current and future closures as determined by the CRoW 2000 Act.


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