The best walks and hikes around Carno

Yes, the area around Clywedog Reservoir is great for families and those looking for a less strenuous walk. The Clywedog Dam – Yr Allt Summit Path loop from Y Fan is an excellent choice. It's a relatively short 5.2 km (3.2 mi) trail that offers wonderful views of the dam and reservoir without a major climb.

Absolutely. One of the best features of Carno is its direct access to the surrounding hills. For a rewarding circular hike, consider the Bryn Amlwg Summit (488 m) loop from Carno. This 11.2 km (7.0 mi) route takes you from the village up to a summit with panoramic views of the valley.

Most trails in the Carno area are suitable for dogs, as they cross open countryside and public footpaths. However, you will likely encounter livestock, especially sheep, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead. The trails in Hafren Forest are also a good option for walking with dogs.

For a shorter walk with a great payoff, the Bryn y Fan Summit Trig Point – Bryn y Fan Summit loop from Bwlch y Gle Dam is a fantastic option. This 3.3 km (2.1 mi) hike leads to a trig point with expansive views over the Cambrian Mountains.

Yes, the 135-mile Glyndŵr's Way National Trail passes near Carno. This trail offers a more challenging, multi-day hiking experience through some of the most remote and scenic parts of Mid Wales. You can hike sections of the trail for a strenuous day out.

The region is rich in history, with ancient cairns dotting the hills. The name 'Carno' itself comes from the Welsh for cairn. For a walk that combines history with scenery, the Cwmystwyth mines loop from Y Fan explores the area's mining heritage. Many other local footpaths on the moors, like Trannon Moor, will take you past ancient stone rows and burial mounds.

Hafren Forest, a short drive from Carno, is your best destination for waterfall walks. The forest has several well-marked trails, including the popular 'Severn Breaks its Neck' and 'Blaenhafren Falls' walks, which lead you through beautiful pine forests to picturesque waterfalls.

The trails offer a good mix for most fitness levels. Out of the 20 main routes in the area, about half are rated as easy, perfect for gentle strolls. The other half are moderate, involving hill climbs with rewarding views. There is also one difficult trail for those seeking a significant challenge.

For walks starting in the village, you can find street parking in Carno itself. For trails further afield, there are dedicated parking areas. For example, Hafren Forest has a main car park for its trails, and there are small parking spots near the starting points for walks around Clywedog Reservoir and Bwlch y Gle Dam.

The entire area is a haven for wildlife, with red kites being a common sight in the skies. For a dedicated nature walk, the Cors y Llyn National Nature Reserve is a peaceful option known for its unique wetland habitat. The trails through Hafren Forest also offer excellent opportunities to spot local birdlife and other animals.

The trails around Carno are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning rural scenery, the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the paths, and the variety of walks available, from gentle reservoir loops to more challenging ascents into the hills.

For a very easy walk that explores a nearby town, the Llanidloes – Llanidloes Castle loop from Llanidloes is a great choice. It's a gentle 4.3 km (2.7 mi) stroll that gives you a feel for the historic market town of Llanidloes, which is a short drive from Carno.