Trail of the Month
Devil’s Staircase Trailheads’ Get Jerky began on an adventure which took their founder through the Yellowstone National Park, where a love for jerky was discovered. It’s power to refuel, re-energize and recover is why it is the ultimate adventure snack. Which is why Get Jerky want to share with you some of their favourite adventures, with their Trail of the Issue! This issue we’re looking at the epic Devil’s Staircase, which is located in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains. However, this is definitely not for the faint hearted! While the area is very remote and the views are stunning, the terrain is tough and unforgiving – in particular the 25% climb of the Devil’s Staircase itself. This year saw the inaugural running of the Trailhead Get Jerky Devils Staircase Ultra Race a 31.5 mile suffer fest with a total ascent of 1,585m THE TRAIL The Ultra Trail run is largely run on private land, but for keen cyclists, the Devil’s Staircase is one of those icon climbs to tick off your list. You will begin your adventure at Llandovery, following the A483, before turning off at Cynghordy, where the road will become much quieter & steeper. At the top, head through Crychan Forest towards Tirabad, and onto Llanwrtyd Wells. Llanwrtyd Wells, known as one of the smallest towns in the UK, is also famous for its unique games and festivals, including Bog Snorkelling & Man V Horse! From here, head upstream along the Irfon River to
Abergorlech, which will give you a breath-taking tour of the valley. The Irfon Valley holds particular meaning to Trailheads’ MD, saying “this is where my family & our forefathers have worked the land in the beautiful Irfon Valley for centuries!” As your journey through the valley continues, you will soon see the challenge that lies ahead… the Staircase itself. Welcoming you in with a steady 5% gradient, the staircase then kicks up to an unrelenting gradient of up to 25% and a distance of 1.3km, with very few respites, this part of the trail will test your endurance & stamina climbing 151m at an average gradient of 12%. Once you have reached the top, take a breathe & absorb the surroundings. When you’re ready, the descent down the equally steep other side, follow the road towards Llyn Brianne. Here you will spot the Llyn Brianne reservoir – if you still have the legs, you can take a short excursion to see the spectacular dam! The final part of your journey takes you on a fast descent following the river Towy to Cilycwm, and on to return to Llandovery! THE CHALLENGE Looking for a challenge? This year Trailhead supported the launch of the brand new, Devil’s Staircase Ultra Trail Race. The 50km on & off-road journey saw runners face the unforgiving Devil’s Staircase, tour the beautiful Abergwesyn Valley and pass the most isolated chapel in Wales. Think you’ve got what it takes to take on the Devil? The race will return in April 2023.
www.taste-blas.co.uk
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