Talybont and Pontsticill Reservoir Route
A great wilderness figure of 8 cross country route which is 90% traffic free, incorporating some tough climbs & open mountainside.
Difficult Mountain Biking
- Distance
- 22 km
- Ascent
- 768 m
- Descent
- 385 m
A traffic free route taking in the Brecon canal, Taff Trail & an old Tramroad and stunning scenery
Mountain Biking Easy
Public pay vehicle parking is available at Henderson Hall in Talybont on Usk (opposite the black & white canal swing bridge). After exiting the car park go up to the swing bridge, then turn left onto the canal. You will shortly reach the White Hart pub where you exit the canal. Turn right and up and over a hump back bridge over the canal following a dirt track. You will then reach the start of the Brinmore Tramroad where there are various displays describing its history and usage which are well worth stopping to read. The track at the start is flat but can be bumpy, and is walled by hedges on either side. After passing through a few gates (make sure you close them) enter the forest where you will start to gradually climb (the surface can be looser in places). See if you can spot evidence of where the tram tracks used to be. After exiting the forest you will come to a junction which is signposted Tramroad straight on to your left or Taff trail to your right. At this point there are numerous routes and distances that can be chosen (see other Talybont on Usk tramroad routes).
Take the Taff Trail gradually downhill until you reach a wide gravel track. Here you will reach Talybont reservoir & the dam wall which has spectacular views stretching for miles. After stopping for some pictures continue on the wide gravel track (Taff trail) with views of the reservoir peaking through the trees on your right. The trail gradually climbs. Take the forest road junction on your left signed for Brinmore tramroad, and once on the tramroad, turn left and take this all the way back to the first junction where you will retrace your route to the start
Easy
Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.
A great wilderness figure of 8 cross country route which is 90% traffic free, incorporating some tough climbs & open mountainside.
Difficult Mountain Biking
This is one of the all time classic Brecon Beacons mountain bike routes which has it all.
Difficult Mountain Biking
A challenging route with some tough climbs taking in the Brecon canal, Taff Trail & an old tramroad
Moderate Mountain Biking
8.4 km away
A very scenic family route, or useful as a link between Brecon and the trails around Talybont on Usk.
Easy Mountain Biking
7 routes · Mountain Biking · Hiking