The Elan Valley Trail runs from Cwmdauddwr, just west of Rhayader to the Craig Goch reservoir in the Elan Valley.
The 13km (8 miles) route follows the old Elan Valley railway and runs around the four of the Elan Valley reservoirs. It's a surfaced path, suitable for all - pushchairs and wheelchairs, cyclists and horse riders as well as walkers.
The trail also has a series of specially made benches if you want to take a breather, relax and admire the amazing scenery of the area.
The Route
The route of the Elan Valley Trail is easy to follow. Information boards with maps are located along the path, and access to the trail can be gained at several points from the B4518. Note that it is necessary to cross or join the road on certain sections so beware of traffic.
After 4 km (2.5miles) the trail joins the road for about 100 metres before turning left at a T-junction. From here you can either follow the road down the hill to the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, or cross the road and follow the next section of trail which runs for a further 9 km (5.5 miles) up the Elan Valley to Craig Goch.
Notes :
The trail begins in Cwmdauddwr on the B4518 just west of Rhayader, where there's a small car park (SN966677), and ends at Craig Goch Reservoir. If you need to get back to Rhayader, that's another eight mile hike - but you don't have to do the full route. There are several places along the B4518 road where you can join the trail. |
If you fancy a more challenging hike, pick up a leaflet on "Ten Hillwalks around Rhayader and the Elan Valley" at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre Information Desk. However, if you don't feel like stretching those legs, much of the estate can also be seen from the comfort of your own car. Follow the narrow winding road through the valley where the scenery can be breathtaking.
More about the Elan Valley More Mid Wales Walks
your comments
If you are under 16 please do not disclose your surname.
We try to publish as many comments as we can but unfortunately, due to the volume of comments we receive every day, we cannot guarantee that all comments submitted will be published
Ap. Wills, Ben y Mynydd
Unless you know otherwise you should leave gates as you find them, if they are open there may be a reason e.g. for livestock to access water etc......
Thu Jan 17 10:58:39 2008
Neil Ives from Malvern
To Bryan Lawrence. If there are gates I assume they are there for a reason. Surely anyone who enjoys the countryside knows that gates should be closed after passing through.
Mon Oct 15 13:13:07 2007
Bryan Lawrence
It was because of the usage for cyclists that the trail was built. There is someone out there who takes a perverse delight in shutting the gates on the track which spoils the enjoyment of those of us who enjoy riding the trail. P.S. I also walk the trail at least once a week and open all the shut gates.
Thu Jun 9 22:33:27 2005
Rhys Easton from Llanwrthwl
I've lived near the Elan Valley all my life and it is a great place to relax, take dogs for walks or get some good exercise. Its a great place for road biking which is what I do and I have never encountered any problems with pedestrians or even ones with their dogs.
Thu Apr 28 20:44:16 2005
Ceri From Barry
Cyclists should give way to all pedestrians on the Path Simon. I always slow down and wait until there is room to pass or they let me pass. If all else fails I dismount. I meet a lot of walkers on the path. And had no problems at all; dog walkers called their dogs and most people spoke. So maybe see you Friday I shall be up there early. Going to make a day of it.
Thu Mar 24 08:24:21 2005
Ceri From Barry
Been to the Elan valley many times but Saturday was my first cycling up there. Stunning views, shame the route was not longer. But plenty to see and loads of benches for a break. I recommend this route. Well maintained paths too. Oh the trout were rising - get a fishing ticket :-)
Mon Mar 21 12:16:39 2005
Simon Roberts from Rhayader
During my more or less daily walk on the Elan Valley Trail I have experienced cyclists down the hill between Rhayader tunnel and the start of the walk. Don't you think cyclists should be more aware of physically handicapped persons also using the walk?
Fri Mar 11 09:24:30 2005
Add your comments to this page here:
