I'm going to ride the Marin Trail for the first time next weekend and just wanted to know if the trail make up is similar to Penmachno where I have ridden before.
Is it made of similar slabby rock and generally well drained?
Yep
Lots more fire road climbing on the Marin.Penmachno much more interesting IMO.
If you've ridden at Penmachno, you'll be disappointed by the neglected Marin trail. There are some nice views, but otherwise it's very poor by comparison.
Penmachno 9/10
Marin Trail 4/10
I still like the Marin. There are some cracking descents, and even after having ridden it regularly for the past 5 years, I still smile afterwards!
Marin somehow manages to feel like there's twice as much climbing as descending.
Least enjoyable UK trail centre I've visited.
Shame, as it feels like there's loads of potential there.
Each to their own, granted, there are some bastard climbs, but some of the tight singletrack though the woods towards the end is pretty good, especially as it's eroded nicely to keep you on your toes!
last time I was there some trail maintenance had been done on the Marin, hopefully they are continuing. I like it as a good solid trail, rode it to death 5-6 years ago, went back and it still packs a punch with some good singletrack sections, some bits are hard to get perfect and require plenty of effort and enthusiasm. Judging by the numbers in the car park still a popular trail
Thanks for the comments. I really loved Penmachno and will go back.
The group I'm going with want to try Marin - perhaps I'll point them in the direction of this thread!
as with all go try and see for yourself