The Fairy Glen is a short canyon run on the Afon Conwy in northern Wales and has become a classic due to its long-standing reputation as a test piece for the area and its reliable flows. The storybook scenery doesn’t hurt, either.

Aptly named, in Victorian times it was believed that sprites and fairies graced this small gorge. Fairy Glen draws a line from below the misty maelstrom of Conwy Falls towards the confluence of the Lleder.

A favorite run for local paddlers who can be seen paddling in the cold light of dawn, it also draws paddlers from far and wide for a big day out and to test their skill and nerve. Its stunning canyon setting—so close to the main road—ensures no one goes away disappointed.

The Fairy Glen is a continuous two-kilometer, class V run with a few sticky holes and big drops that demand respect. It boasts a growing number of acceptable water levels, making it standout in an area where water level consistency hinders enjoyment of many other rivers. If it’s too much river for you try the nearby River Llugwy or the Conwy, further upstream. —With files from Tom Laws and Daz Clarkson.

IF YOU GO:

The Fairy glen is suitable for a solid group of paddlers with bombproof rolls. All the real men take out at the Beaver Pool, according to Tom Laws, coauthor of Welsh Rivers, the guidebook for paddlers in Wales. www.thewelshrivers.com

Steve Rogers is a British Columbia-based adventure photographer, writer and kayaker, originally from the north of England. www.steveophotos.com.

This article appeared in Rapid, Early Summer 2013. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or read the rest here.