Skip to content

Before you ride

Our Rider Pledge

We look forward to welcoming you to Hafod Trails. We take your experience and safety very seriously - this pledge is part of that commitment and is an important part of understanding the risks of mountain biking at Hafod Trails.

All riders (or the parent or guardian of a rider who is under 18) must agree to this pledge before riding the trails.

The pledge, clause by clause

  1. 01

    Risk is real

    Mountain biking and the outdoors have a level of risk that cannot be removed. If at any point you feel like you can't judge the risks for yourself, please stop and get some advice or tuition before continuing.

  2. 02

    Speak up

    Trail inspections happen - but things do change - if you see something that doesn't look right, please don't ignore it, let one of our staff know.

  3. 03

    Recce first

    Our trails are designed and graded, they are constantly being maintained and evolving, so even if you've ridden at Hafod Trails before ride cautiously initially, do a recce ride, then ride again. If you're not familiar with how trails are graded, please ask, we're friendly and non-judgemental - it's much better to ask questions before you ride.

  4. 04

    Welsh weather

    The weather can change quickly, be prepared with the right clothes to be comfortable whatever the Welsh weather throws at you - we monitor the weather every day, but if you feel like you're too hot, too cold, too wet or there's some extreme weather - talk to us.

  5. 05

    Helmets, non-negotiable

    Whilst we recommend wearing suitable clothing, gloves and knee and elbow pads, the only item that is non-negotiable is your helmet. The European Standard is EN1078, there are other standards - make sure your head is protected with something that will do the job. So wear it, with the strap fastened, whenever you're riding.

  6. 06

    Your bike is your responsibility

    Have a bike that is suitable for your ability and the trails you are riding. Ensure all your kit is well maintained. If you're joining an evening session, having suitable light(s) in good working order is your responsibility.

  7. 07

    Zero tolerance

    We do not tolerate the use of alcohol or non-prescription drugs - we operate a zero tolerance policy on this.

  8. 08

    Listen to the team

    Always listen to our team - especially when using the uplift and trails for the first time. If we say stop, please do!

  9. 09

    Be kind

    Be kind and considerate to each other and remember everyone has to start somewhere!

  10. 10

    Share the site

    The signs around the site are there to keep bikes, vehicles and walkers apart. When you're on the trails please make sure that you're not part of a collision.

  11. 11

    Mechanicals

    If you have a mechanical problem, please get off the trail and follow the routes to get back to your vehicle. Be aware that if you encounter the uplift vehicle, the driver might struggle to stop and get going again. Give them some space!

  12. 12

    First aid

    Our team are trained to give first aid - if you need them, you'll find them around the food area on the car park or on the uplift vehicles. We expect you to manage any pre-existing medical conditions you have, including bringing/taking your own medication. Let us know if there is anything you think we might need to know about.

  13. 13

    Fuel up

    Food, water and shelter are all available on site. You'll have a better time if you stay well fed, hydrated and a good temperature.

  14. 14

    Fatigue

    As you get tired towards the end of the day, and especially when you're leaving Hafod Trails, be aware your judgement might not be as good. Fatigue has a big effect, please be cautious, have a rest, we want to see you again.

Have an amazing time on our trails!

Opens our pledge form. All riders, or the parent or guardian of a rider under 18, must agree before riding.