Loggerheads and Moel Famau Circular Trail

The trail typically starts at Loggerheads Country Park, which offers parking facilities. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended, especially on weekends, as it is a popular starting point.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please be mindful that you will pass through areas with livestock, particularly in the open countryside sections. Dogs should be kept under close control, preferably on a leash, to ensure the safety of both your pet and local wildlife/farm animals. Always carry bags to clean up after your dog.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round, but the best time to jog is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the paths are less likely to be muddy. Winter conditions can make some sections, especially near Moel Famau's summit, challenging due to potential ice, snow, or very muddy terrain.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Loggerheads and Moel Famau Circular Trail itself, nor for entering the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape. However, parking at Loggerheads Country Park may incur a small fee.

For an average jogger, this 13.8 km (8.6 miles) trail, with its significant elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. However, due to its 'difficult' grading and steep sections, many choose to power-hike parts of it, which can extend the duration. Allow extra time to enjoy the views from Jubilee Tower on Moel Famau.

The terrain is highly varied and can be demanding. You'll encounter quiet country lanes, forest tracks, and paths that range from well-maintained to unpaved, gravel, or natural surfaces. Expect steep climbs, especially towards Moel Famau's summit, and potentially very muddy sections within the Loggerheads Country Park woodland after rain. Near the summit, the path can be rocky with loose stones, requiring careful foot placement.

The trail is rich with notable features. You'll pass through the special wooded river valley of Loggerheads Country Park. The highlight is undoubtedly the ascent to Moel Famau, the highest peak in the Clwydian Range, where you'll find the remains of the Jubilee Tower on Moel Famau. From here, panoramic views extend across the Vale of Clwyd, Snowdonia, and even to Liverpool on a clear day. You'll also traverse sections of the historic Leete Path.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it incorporates sections of the Offa's Dyke Path National Trail and the Offa's Dyke Way. You'll also find it overlaps with parts of the Ride the Clwyds and the Moel Famau Loop trails.

Yes, Loggerheads Country Park, the common starting point, offers excellent facilities. These include parking, public toilets, and a cafe where you can grab refreshments before or after your run.

The trail offers glorious and varied scenery. It begins in the wooded river valley of Loggerheads Country Park, backed by limestone cliffs. As you progress, you'll move through dense woodlands, across open countryside, and eventually onto heather moorland leading to Moel Famau. The panoramic views from the summit are a major draw, encompassing vast landscapes.

Given the trail's 'difficult' rating, safety is important. Be prepared for steep climbs and descents, particularly on Moel Famau, where loose stones and rocky sections require careful foot placement. After rain, parts of the woodland can become very muddy. Always wear appropriate trail running shoes with good grip, carry enough water, and check the weather forecast before you go. Consider bringing a map or using a GPS device, as some paths can be less defined.