Mach Loop The Official Guide - Where, When and How - Official Guide (2024)

Mach Loop -The Official Guide toCad East and West

1st TIME? WATCH THIS FOR ALL THE INFO YOU NEED

Mach Loop - The Official Guide

As a follow-up to my Mach Loop Guide (see video) I have created this web page to outline everything you need to know about travelling to the Mach Loop and how to take pictures whilst you're there. I have outlined all the necessary addresses including Google Maps and various Postcodes for your Sat Nav. I've gone a little further than that too. I've covered where to stay and when.

I'd advise that you watch the video first and then plan your trip. It's very important to point out right from the off, you're never guaranteed to see aircraft. The military never advertises when they're flying there, it's a hit and miss affair I'm afraid!

Everyone at the Loop will tell you the same thing... it's a magical place to sit and watch the world go by. If you manage to see any low flying aircraft whilst you're there, it's a bonus!

Loop

Edging your bets... A few pointers that will definitely help.

• Military only fly through the Loop when the visibility is fairly good or better.
• The Military only fly through the Loop Monday to Friday.
• Military Aircraft DO NOT fly during Bank Holidays!

COMMUNITY PROJECT

If you feel you can add to or alter any of the information on this page then please let me know. I'll gladly share the information and credit you.

If you feel you have any interesting videos or pictures you'd like to share then pop the links below and I will gladly share them too (I will always credit the creator)

Mach Loop -The Official Guide toCad East and West

BRIEF: This video is a snapshot of a 2-day visit I made to the Mach Loop (Wales) on the 27th & 28th Jun 2017. It's fully intended to offer the viewer an insight into what they can expect if they're planning a similar trip. Nothing is a guarantee though!

This short film is fully intended to capture the emotions and dramas of visiting the Loop.

Images shot using a CANON 1DX MKII and a 100mm - 400mm MKII Lens

Also watch the Official Guide to Cad West

CLICK for more info on Cad West

In this video, I discuss whether the Mach Loop is still worth visiting in 2022!
CLICK for more info

Thanks for your video. We found it useful on our last trip to the Mach loop. We didn't abuse the local's privileges either. We closed gates, parked carefully and cleaned up after ourselves. Great high quality video! Regards, Suresh , Florida,USA.

ADVICE: This video explains how to find Cad West/East. Where to Park, but more importantly than that, how to take the pictures.

We cover it all...
WHERE IS IT?
WHERE TO PARK?
HOW FAR IS TO WALK?
WHAT EQUIPMENT?
WHAT CAMERA?
WHAT LENS?
CAN I CAMP THERE?
WHERE CAN I STAY?

Where is it?

Mach Loop Wales or Machynlleth Loop consists of a series of valleys in the United Kingdom in West-Central Wales

TheMach Loop(also known as theMachynlleth LooporCAD Westamongplane spotters) consists of a series of valleys in theUnited Kingdomin west-centralWales, notable for their use as low-level training areas for fastjet aircraft. The system of valleys lies 8 miles east ofBarmouthand is nestled between the towns ofDolgellau to the north andMachynllethto the south, from the latter of which it takes its name. The training area is within the Low Flying Area (LFA) LFA7, which covers most of Wales.
Aircraft which use the training area includeRoyal Air ForceAirbus, A400M,Tornado,Typhoon,Hawkjets andC-130Jas well asU.S. Air ForceF-15C Eagles,F-15E Strike Eagles,F-22 Raptors, andF-35A Lightning II, which are based atRAF Lakenheathin easternEngland. - Snapshot fromWikipedia

Use Google Maps and search for "Cad East/West car park" (SEE BELOW) The result should take you to the car park on the A487 This is the car park for Cad West/East.
For Cad East (only) simplyfollow the instructions on the above video.

WHERE DO I PARK?

For Cad West/East park in the Lay-by on the A487as per Google Maps and if you want to park at the back of Cad East then simply follow the instructions in the video.

WARNING:

Parking at Cad East - This is really important... Before you venture up to the back of Cad East you must bear the following in mind...

There isn't an official Car Park there, just a couple of pull-in areas that everybody uses. There are 2 small areas where people leave their cars. In one area (see video) there is space for around 5 carefully parked cars. There is a second area for around 3 to 4 carefully parked cars. People also edge their cars onto the verges, but this isn't recommended and could upset the Farmer and other road users. The verges are un-even, usually soft and boggy and it's very easy to get stuck. I can vouch for that!

Furthermore, these areas will fill up by 7 AM - Don't even attempt to travel up the back road after this time, or you'll find yourself traveling back down.

Park sensibly and don't let this happen to you. CLICK(Credit =Ron Jones)

HOW FAR IS IT TO WALK?

Cad West - It takes around 15 minutes to walk to the lower viewing area. This is a steady climb. Perfect for anyone that is averagely fit. You can then venture further up to the higher viewing areas which will offer different viewing angles if you like. The climb really does get a little more intense. This is a real huff and puff hill.

Personally, I would suggest going higher only if you're a fairly fit person and if you have a long lens. The further up you travel the further away from the aircraft you get.

Cad East- From the rear car park, it's a steady 10-minute climb. (See Parking above before you go) Climbing up from Cad West's car park isn't something I have done yet. It looks a hard climb though.

(Community Project) Maybe somebody could advise us in the comments below?

WHAT EQUIPMENT?

Other - If you're there for the day I'd suggest the following but they're not essential...

1. Warm dry clothes (Dress in layers)
2. Good strong waterproof Footwear
3. Comfy fold-able chair (Amazon Recommended) or Crazy Creek PowerLounger (Amazon Recommended)
4. Pop-Up Tent. (Amazon recommended)
   A pop-up tent can be a lifesaver. Not literally but they keep you and your equipment dry. They offer shelter from the Sun & Rain.
5. Water (Plenty to drink)
6. Refreshments
7. Sun Cream
8. Mosquito Cream (They can be annoying in the summer if it's a still day) (Amazon Recommended)

Radio - The serious Loopers have radio scanners. I don't have one, so I can't comment. Do not bother buying a radio unless you intend to visit several times. They're more of a hindrance to the casual visitor. If you are interested look hereCLICK
(Community Project) Advice anyone? - comment below?

WHAT CAMERA? WHAT LENS?

Any camera will do. Some people just go for the experience. Some people are happy to just video the aircraft on their smartphones. If you're serious about taking pictures, then I'd suggest any Camera, but with a long lens. A lens between 300-500mm would be perfect.

My Gear

• Canon 1DX MKII
• Canon 5D MK IV
• Canon 100 - 400mm lens

CAN I CAMP THERE?

The land at Cad East and West are owned by local farmers. They have both asked me to point out that Camping on their land is Strictly Prohibited.

WHERE CAN I STAY?

Camping - CwmrhwyddforFarm Camp Site.

This site is situated just 3 miles away from Cad East/West Car Park. It is rated 4.6 stars in Google. It has just enough amenities and is picturesque. The Farmer is called Hugh Notting. He's a spot-on guy and embraces photography and photographers.

His rates are very reasonable too!

CONTACT: 01654 761286
Land Owner & Farmer:Hugh Notting

Address:Llanfihangel-y-pennant, Llanfihangel-y-Pennant, Tywyn LL36 9TS

I'm not on commission but please let him know you found this info from this page.

Self Catering Holiday Cottage -Stabal Holiday Cottage

The Self Catering Cottage Sleeps 4 and is situated right next to the Cad East Entry Gate. It has a Google 5 Star rating and located right in the heart of The Loop. If you stayed here you could actually walk up the road to the Cad East viewing area. It'll take just 25 minutes. You wouldn't need to drive up at silly-o-clock in the morning to secure a parking spot either. For more info see their website here

Contact: 01341 422297
Land Owner & Farmer:Hugh Price

Address: Cefn Naw Clawdd, Cwm Hafod Oer, Dolgellau LL40 2SG
Website

I'm not on commission but please let him know you found this info from this page.

This video and accompanying web page covers it all!

COMMUNITY PROJECT:

I want to share mine and your experiences with others. Got any videos you want to share? Any Pictures? Any advice you feel will be appropriate?

SHARE YOUR VIDEOS
SHARE YOUR PICTURES
SHARE YOUR STORIES (good and bad)

Just add them into the description and I'll share them on my webpage. I will of course credit you back.

THANKS

My friend and I are Just back from our first ever trip to the Loop. We used your video as our guide and spent three days on Cad East. We were very lucky with the weather and aircraft and saw a lot of Hawks, several F-15s, a few Typhoons plus a Hercules and an A400. Thanks to your tips and advice we had a great time, thank you.

Mach Loop the Official Guide

TAKE YOUR LITTER HOME

CONTRIBUTION:

Travel the Loop from the co*ckpit of aLockheed MC-130 MC-130 WOW!

CREDIT:stjohnpilot65

• *Flight Timetable: CLICK
  THIS IS NOT A MACH LOOP TIMETABLE!
  (Please bear in mind this timetable is for LFA7 which covers the whole of West Wales. Serious Loopers ignore this
  info (CREDIT =Kelvin Harrison & Randell John)

Government Guide to Low Flying in the UK. Where and when low flying happens.CLICK
*Take this info with a pinch of salt! The Low Flying Area (LFA7) described, isn't directly related to the Loop. It's a general guide to flying throughout the whole of the Low Flying Area around Central-West Wales. Loopers generally ignore it.

Radio Frequencies: There is a very well written web page that seems to cover all of the frequencies that you're ever likely to want and more. It's probably just easier for you to go straight there. CLICK

• One thing I would add Gary is what to wear. Being nearly 1000ft up the side of a mountain the weather can change quickly. It can go from warm to freezing in a blink of an eye, it can rain, snow (dependent on the time of year) nevermind the wind factor! Wearing wind resistant quality outdoor clothing that you can take off if it gets warm is strongly advisable, you can always put them back on. You cover having a tent, I feel this is pretty essential too. I didn't have one but wish I had, especially in that wind chill on the first day. Equally, camping gear of kettle, burner or flask with hot water is a recommendation too.
  (Credit =

Mach Loop Frequencies
128.700 AM London Military Central
Main frequency to listen to. Aircraft use this frequency to call for permission to transit across to Wales. Useful information can be gleaned here, including where the aircraft is making for.
133.900 AM London Military West
Aircraft use this frequency to request a return to base (RTB), transiting west to east. This gives an indication that aircraft will not be coming through The Loop.
278.000 AM Nato Low Level
Mainly used by F15 pilots signalling that they are about to drop into low-level.
(CREDIT: Mark Wiseman)

A Beginner’s Guide to the Mach Loop: By anonymous author see below

TIP:

Christoph Sojak suggested using walking poles in his review of my video. Use them for both walking and staking things like your char down when it's windy - GREAT IDEA!

Dear Gary! I just want to say thx for your efforts you put in this channel and your website. I am from Vienna/Austria and visited the Mach-Loop in April 2018 for the first time. I checked all your videos and all the location-insights on the hp and honestly they are totaly true and valid. You made it easy for me to plan my trip and have a great time with Tornados, Hawks and F-15's. Only one adition from my side: I recommend everybody to bring walking-sticks. When the wind blows strong they can help to prevent your belongings (f.e. the folding chair) to be blown away when you ram them deep into the ground. Once again Gary, thank you - you made my day! 😉
Christoph Sojak

WEEKLY VLOGGING... Since I've committed to weekly vlogging, you get the best and the worst. Besides, it's probably good to know that we don't always have successful days!

I make at least one video a week, and I've got some amazing locations penned. Please make it worth my while and support the channel.

SMASH THAT LIKE BUTTON and SUBSCRIBE - I'll love you forever!

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: CLICK
MORE ABOUT ME: CLICK
Photography Training Courses: CLICK

Video Credits:
Presented By: Gary Gough
Music: The 126ers - Wish You'd Come True
Music: Jingle Punks - Cataclysmic Molten Core

PLEASE LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE YOUR

CONTRIBUTION:

The following is a fantastically written "Guide to the Mach Loop" that has never been published or shared online. The Author has granted me permission to share it, but wishes to remain anonymous which is a shame.

I haven't changed it in any way so the author's views may well vary from mine.

A Beginner’s Guide to the Mach Loop

For the beginners considering going to the loop for the first time. The focus will lie not so much on thespots or the camera gear but with all the other practical details for planning a trip to the loop, goingthere with the right expectations and mindset to be able to get as much out of it as possible.

The author is only an “intermediate” level looper with 4 visits (15 days) total experience. Anycorrections/additions can be directed to gary@garygough.co.uk for inclusion in revised futureversions of this guide.

Introduction
“The Mach Loop” is a series of valleys in Wales, U.K. that serves as a military low-flying training area.The official designation is LFA7, Low Flying Area 7. Together the valleys form a circuit in which allkinds of military aircraft and helicopters from multiple nations regularly go to practice their low flyingskills. Occasionally, especially in weekends, civilian traffic can also be spotted.

The traffic flow is always counterclockwise and in the north and west, there are several popularlocations where people can climb the surrounding mountains to enjoy the show and take pictures ina way that mimics air-to-air photography.

The aircrews flying in the loop are very well aware of the presence of photographers and may or maynot interact/assist your creation of some really nice shots.

Name
The Machynlleth Loop. Aviation-heads easily confuse this with Ernest Mach and the speed of soundbut the name actually derives from the village of Machynlleth just south of the south-west corner ofthe loop. Machynlleth like many Welsh names are naturally abbreviated and become “mach” with the expected pronunciation in daily speech.

Used By
R.A.F and USAF primarily but other NATO member states aircraft can be seen occasionally as well asaircraft visiting RIAT. Red Arrows or part thereof can sometimes be spotted passing through the loop.

Aircraft Types
Common: Hawk, Eagle, Tornado, Typhoon, C130, various helicopters such as Apache and Chinook.
Rarely/Occasionally/once: Alpha Jet, Jet Provost, F16, F22, F35.
Getting more common (2017) Osprey, A400M

When
Any day they are flying, the weather is acceptable and they have some time and fuel to spare. Thereis no such thing as a timetable for the loop and going there is a gamble in many respects. However,when the weather is fair you will most likely see something during a whole day stay. Traffic has beenseen as early as around 7 and well into the darkness but most typically you want to be there 8 in themorning to about 5-7 in the evening. Also, see the section on parking.

Please note that the air forces mostly operate office hours and the chance of seeing anything duringa weekend or bank holiday is skinny to none.
Ongoing major exercises will, of course, affect all of the above, including no action at all if the forcesare deployed elsewhere.

Factors Affecting Traffic
The most apparent one is, of course, the weather. Secondly, if they have time, fuel and desire to go forsome low level that day. There are however some other things that can really kill your day.
Paragliding and helicopter with under-slung loads cause for temporary NOTAM’s that will effectivelyclose parts of or even the whole loop area for hours or even days.

Factors Affecting Visitor Count
Some national holidays such as school breaks will bring more people to the loop. Also, summertime is high as well as in the weeks around RIAT. Rumours of rare flying visitors will also affect the number of people on the hills and parking.

Where to Stay
See the above recommendations

Getting to the Spots
Having a car is basically the only way unless you enjoy walking or biking. There is no bus service orcharter coaches to take you there. This is very much the countryside and you need to take care ofyourself. There are taxi services in the area but cell coverage is poor so when you are done and wantto leave, this can prove tricky. You will most likely bump into other like-minded people and may beable to share a car.

Parking
Most of the spots have very limited parking possibilities. Space typically used are standard roadlaybys where you can fit anything from 2-30 cars depending on the spot. Please adhere to signageand do not waste space, park smart and more cars can fit in and people will appreciate you more.

Bwlch: If you are a party traveling in 2 cars, please park the car's bumper to bumper and not side byside. People knowing each other or agreeing on conditions can also park this way. Better to block afriend in and leaving space for “singles” to park towards the fence.
Due to the parking constraints in many of the spots, you need to consider leaving your
accommodation really early to ensure a spot. If you are a group, if possible please share vehicles. Byearly I mean on-site no later than 7.

What You Can Expect To See
Nothing. This is really the preferable mindset. The loop comes with no guarantees whatsoever.But apart from that, the lucky ones may see:
- USAF F-15’s.
- R.A.F Tornado, Typhoon, Hawk, C130 and more
Usually, R.A.F are bolder and they also have a slightly lower hard deck for low flying than whatUSAF do. A lot of the USAF pilots are also in training and have not been flying in the loop before, oreven at low-level so their personal minimums will take them higher through the loop than most ofthe RAF jocks.

You will be able to take photos of the aircraft from above and level with their flight paths and thusgetting pics with the aircraft “landlocked”, that is appearing as though you had been flying withthem. With a good lens and some talent, you will also be able to get excellent co*ckpit shots, maybeeven with the aircrew waiving at you.

The more time you can afford to stay in the loop (in terms of days) the higher the chance of gettingto see some traffic (duh!).

Flying Rules in the Loop

• Left-hand circuit (counter-clockwise).
• Never inverted.
• No use of afterburners (reheaters).
• Max 2 complete circuits per aircraft and time.

Loop Manners

• Be considerate!
• Park effectively to allow as many others as possible to join.
• No littering, you are on private property and the day someone’s litter hurts a sheep, thelooping days are over for everyone.
• Adhere to signage, particularly at Bwlch where you must never block the gates!
• Close farmers gates behind you or make sure the car after you does!
• Think twice before publishing photos that can get the airmen in trouble (burners, inverted,obscenities). Doing so can also give you a bad rep among veteran loopers. Most FB-groupswill ban you if you do.
• Accept recommendations and reprimands from more experienced loopers, they know whatthey are talking about and their minds are set on what is good for the loop and your safety.
• Keep dogs on a lead unless you are VERY sure you can stop them from going after thesheep.

All violations of manner and common sense on these spots will jeopardize the future of the loop bothfrom farmers blocking off access and from the air forces moving elsewhere if they start viewing theloop as a risk for them or the general public.

Absolute No-No!
- Use of drones or any other flying device or object that risk intentionally or unintentionallygetting airborne and could pose a danger to incoming jets.

Who Can Go? What About My Kids? Pets?
The different spots have a different character and the difficulty level varies a lot. Still, keep in mind thatall spots require that you climb up to a level where you are above the aircraft you want to bewatching. Even rather unfit people can do it as long as they take it slowly, not pushing on too hard.
For families with kids, Cad West is the spot you want to visit. The climb is done by traversing trailsand at the steepest parts you follow a fence that you can hold on to if needed. Once up there, thereare no sudden steep areas that you could accidentally fall down from.Sheep are omnipresent in the loop area and they are roaming the same hills you are to keep that inmind if you bring your dog. Farmers tend to be very upset by anything else but their own sheepdoghunting the sheep.

Wildlife / Animals / Dangers
Where there are sheep, there are ticks.

Snakes have been reported – mind your step.

Falling off a cliff…
All joking aside, people get hurt in the loop every year. Please appreciate the challenge you acceptwhen going to the loop.

Weather and Gear
Weather shifts can be dramatic in the loop and it can be hard to dress for all circ*mstances,especially in the spring and fall. When the sun is shining you wish for shorts and t-shirt, then cloudsform and wind picks up, a rain shower starts and you would give your left arm for a tent with centralheating in it or for a teleportation device to get you off the mountain in a hurry. Do not fool yourselfthinking that at least it will always be reasonably warm in the summer. It is not. Period. Bad weather
will bring unbelievable cold even in July.

But the basics:
ALWAYS use good footwear. Disregard any other advice I give you in here except this. Get someproper outdoor boots with good treading and preferably with some ankle support. The terrain is rockand grass, both get horribly slippery real quick, morning dew can increase the climbing difficulty by 30%.

In many places, the rocks are loose and you have to carefully plan your steps and if you lose balance,which you inevitably will at some point, the shoes may be the only thing between you and a fracture,or in a worst case, the afterlife. Navigating this type of terrain is not a game so gearing up properly isvery smart.

Dress in layers (onion principle), helps preserve heat during long periods of inactivity with wind anddownpour and you can easily shed as many layers as required when the sun comes out again. Bring aspare layer since the climb usually soaks the layer closest to your body.

Always bring rain protection for yourself and your gear. Bear in mind that the ground gets wet too soyou need to water-proof anything that will be sitting directly on the ground. Anything from a solidplastic bag to professional outdoor protection products will do the trick.

You will see that some people carry different quick-erect type tents if you care to carry one they arefantastic when the weather goes sour on you and you will get lots of envious stares from the peoplesitting outside curled up under their ponchos and umbrellas. They are rather inexpensive, you canget them from approx. £25 and up.

Oh, umbrellas. If you have a small light one, pack it along but mostly when the rain comes, so doesthe wind and it can quickly get beyond the point where an umbrella will turn inside out.

Some people find a good use for walking sticks when climbing for extra grip and stability.

Sitting gear, I mentioned protection for things you put on wet ground. But, if you are going to spendmaybe 10h on the mountain, it may be wise to bring something to sit down on, wet or not. Foldingcamping chairs are common among loopers although it can be a challenge to find a flat enoughsurface to put them on. Securing it when the wind picks up can also be an issue.

Inflatable pillows are nice but not very aerodynamic so attach it to something that will keep it fromgetting airborne. This goes for any lost items that can get airborne, a tent-pin and a string/lanyardwill save the day and your gear.

Sun Protection
A must for fair days, you will find yourself sitting outdoors for 10h straight with no shadow. Also, bring sunglasses, they will be comfy and also help when looking for incoming traffic.

Head Protection
Some kind of hat or cap is good. Keeps you from sunburn on the scalp and provides extra shade foreyes and neck. Bring one which fits snugly or has a chin strap to secure it, yes, it’s that wind again!

Food and Drinks
Nothing of the sort is readily available in the immediate loop area. Stock up on water (plenty!),sandwiches, sweets and what not at the nearest SPAR or gas station in Dolgellau or any other villageof your convenience. Nearest lodging and restaurant is the Cross Foxes which is situated in thearea called “the roundabout” between The Exit and Cad (see spots section).

Lingo
Carparked is what you get when you’re still in the parking lot or have left too early and get
overflown by that plane you’ve been waiting for all day.

• Coming! - Kind of self-explanatory but that is what you collectively yell/repeat when someonehas spotted incoming traffic to alert everyone else. Or any other exclamative word,such as OY! Or the type or direction from which it’s approaching.
• Tiffy - Nickname for Eurofighter Typhoon II
• Tonka - Nickname for Panavia Tornado.
• Landlocked - Picture of aircraft with the only terrain as the backdrop.
• Togger - Photographer
• Office Shot - Photo straight in/down into the co*ckpit.

Time For a Full Circuit
If you think the traffic will go full circuit or for a second lap, lap time is about 3-5min depending onthe aircraft type. Don’t let your guard down though, he may have buddies joining the party duringthat time.

Intelligence
Cell phone and air-band radio in own sections below.
Providing you can get Internet service where you are, there are a couple of Facebook groups that willhave daily intel posts where observations from people in the area, people using unfiltered ADS-Bonline services or people listening on air-band receivers at home or on the hills are posted ascomments. There are also a number of dedicated “heads-up”-groups.

These groups and to some extent forums such as Fox2 or FighterContol can also provide insights intocoming or ongoing exercises and unique visitors that may come to the loop.

Get acquainted with the regulars, they are usually very friendly and are regular walking informationparlors and they exchange information that not always reaches wider circles. A few of them are moreor less connected with air force insiders.

Cell Phone
Do not expect coverage. No matter what subscription/provider you are on, coverage is poor in mostspots. If any carrier is a little better than the others, at least in parts of the loop area, it’s EE.

Airband Radio
For the casual visitor going there once and maybe never more, the use of a radio will give moreheadache than help. You need a good radio with a good aerial (not the included one), there is abunch of frequencies to monitor (can be found online or ask someone on-site). The terminology usedtakes a lot of experience to get into and there is no one frequency and no particular clearance forthem to enter the loop.

The key phrase you want to listen for is “low-level”, combine that with where they are/who they aretalking to and you can derive that at least there is an increased chance something will show up soon.There will most likely be a number of people with experience and good equipment around you tohelp you out and/or who will pass information they hear on to you.

Update: Lately (2017) the NATO Low-level frequency (278Mhz, AM) has become more reliable andmany flights now check in on it. When you hear something on it, get ready, you will likely havecompany within minutes or less.

“Radars” (ADS-B)
Only a small part of the military traffic actually use ADS-B. Mostly you will see transports andtrainers, but occasionally also front-liners taking off, or crossing civilian airspace.

• Flightradar24 is more or less useless in the loop as they filter out most military traffic.
• adsbexchange.com set to show only traffic deemed as the military is quite good.
• 360radar.co.uk is a subscription service used by many loopers.

Head Warning / Spotting Incoming Aircraft
This will vary with the spot you visit. Generally, the head warning times are between short and veryshort, say 5-20s. You cannot rely on hearing the aircraft, the wind can cancel out the noise andsignificantly reduce the head warning you get. Some of the spots also have terrain blocking the viewso that incoming can only be seen for a few seconds before passing you. Bwlch and Cad West havethe best head warning times of around 10-20s depending on visibility and detection.

Being on top of your game and concentrated on looking where you know the aircraft will appear forhours on end is not possible for most people. Fortunately, there is strength in numbers and within thegroup. There will usually be one or more watching all the time. Think of as a meerkat (suricate) clan onthe lookout.

Some Words on Camera Equipment
Aviation photography is an equipment sport, there are few shortcuts if you want really good pictures.However, the loop will let you get away with decent pictures even with a mid-range camera and lens.The spots all have slightly different demands concerning focal lengths but if you have a zoom ortelephoto lens reaching 200mm or more, you are well off in most of the spots. Friends attempting touse 500mm lenses quickly changed over to their 100-400mm lenses instead as they were getting tooclose and tracking/panning became virtually impossible.

Do mind that some of the spots are only good for part of the day as they become at least partlybacklit, later on, Cad East, Spur, Corris to name some.

Check Here: http://suncalc.net/#/52.7311,-3.8288,12/2017.02.19/12:01

Do not climb with your camera at the ready unless you have climbed that spot before and/or have a deepwallet. Falling on or dropping your camera here WILL break it. Also, use a camera bag or backpack forprotection.

Unless you will have a truly epic day you do not need a very large memory card even if you areshooting raw, however speed and buffer size are of greater importance. I’ve had a superb week withplenty of traffic but with a window of only a few seconds for each, the total number of clicks remainmuch lower than at an airshow or airport. Returning from a really good week I had bagged onlyabout 1 000 exposures and not all of them were of aircraft.

The Spots
So, now the golden nugget(s). I will only cover them briefly for reference in this doc.

Bwlch (pronounced “bulk”)
Direction of flow: Right to Left
Hillside faces: North-East (Aircraft pass from East to West)
Type of shot: Topside or level pass. Head-on and turning when approaching through the valley fromthe east.
Climb: 30-50min depending on fitness and conditions. 2nd hardest climb in the loop of the commonones.
Parking space: Limited, approx. 10-12 cars max if everybody uses their head and not their ego whenparking.
Lighting: Good all day.

Mach Loop - Cad West
Direction of flow: Left to Right
Hillside faces: South-east
Type of shot: Dramatic topside or level pass. Behind and turning left to Corris over lake Tal-y-Ilyn.
Famous “fence shots”.
Climb: 20-30 depending on fitness and conditions. Easy climb. Trails traversing the hillsidehorizontally.
Parking space: Quite generous, largest layby in the loop. Approx 30 cars.
Lighting: Good all day.

Mach Loop - Cad East
Direction of flow: Right to Left
Hillside faces: North-West (Aircraft pass from East to West)
Type of shot: Belly shots, head on, level pass
Climb: Offers possibility to drive up close to the peak, 10min easy climb from parking.
Parking space: Good if parked at Cad West layby. Very limited if driving up, maybe 3-7 cars if you getcreative.
Lighting: Only really good in the morning but ok most of the day.

Corris Corner
Direction of flow: Right to Left
Hillside faces: North to South West
Type of shot: Side, topside, lake background.
Climb: 20-30min medium difficult.
Parking space: Layby, maybe 5-10 cars max.
Lighting: Only really good before noon.

Bluebell
Direction of flow: Right to Left
Hillside faces: North (Aircraft pass from East to West)
Type of shot: Side on or dipped wings
Climb: 30min, most difficult in the loop, do not climb straight up.
Parking space: Layby, 3 cars max. Other possibilities further down towards Dinas.
Lighting: Can be tricky at times.

The Spur
Direction of flow: Left to Right
Hillside faces: South (Aircraft pass from East to West)
Type of shot:
Climb 20 min.
Parking space: Layby, 2 cars max. Optionally stop a Bwlch layby.
Lighting:

The Exit
Same as Bwlch but turn right and head over toward the roundabout / Cross Foxes.