4.5
(110)
883
riders
26
rides
Mountain biking around Yscir offers routes through varied terrain, characterized by river valleys, canal paths, and ascents into hill country. The region features a mix of open landscapes and areas near reservoirs and aqueducts. Mountain bike trails in Yscir often follow historical waterways and lead towards significant natural features like Pen y Fan and The Gap Pass. The landscape provides opportunities for both gentle rides and challenging climbs.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.6
(62)
509
riders
39.7km
03:30
650m
650m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.0
(1)
9
riders
61.0km
05:00
910m
910m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.6
(8)
52
riders
22.7km
01:17
70m
70m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
46
riders
41.8km
02:41
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
14
riders
53.9km
04:08
920m
920m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Pentwyn Reservoir is the smaller sister to Pontsticill Reservoir, both being separated by a causeway going towards the old Dolygaer outdoor centre. It is a very popular spot with fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The reservoir is used daily for a mix of watersports such as paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing and raft building. It is in a beautiful setting, and you have great views north towards Pen y Fan and nice walks nearby.
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As you descend to this section to the viewpoint I've shared, please be aware that you have rocks and drops to descend that can be slippery when they are wet.
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gorgeous views, very popular with walkers, so be aware
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Great stop off point food and refreshments, especially after a tough climb and decent and Before arriving at Pontsticill reservoir
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A wooden drawbridge carried the road over the canal and was replaced by a fixed bridge after navigation on the canal ceased in the 1930s. Before the canal reopened to boats in 1970, a steel drawbridge with an electric operating mechanism was installed. There are four other drawbridges along the canal to the west. They are for farmers to access fields and are less elaborate than the one at Talybont. Drawbridges saved the canal company the expense of building stone bridges over the canal at these locations.
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This structure is one of the largest canal aqueducts ever built in South Wales. Its four stone arches carry the Brecknock and Abergavenny Canal (later the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal) across the Usk to enable boats to reach Brecon, on the north side of the river Brynich aqueduct was one of the last sections of the canal to be completed to take the canal into Brecon in 1801. The structure was designed by Thomas Dadford Junior and built by local contractors. The aqueduct is at right angles to the river, reducing its length to the minimum possible. This means that the canal, running parallel to the river, has to turn sharply on both approaches.
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This lock was the first on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal to be restored after the canal fell into dereliction. The lock was created when the canal was built c.1800. The section of canal which crosses the river Usk on the nearby Brynich aqueduct is lower than the final stretch of water into Brecon. The bridge over the canal here is joined to the lock walls. The road continues across the river Usk on a five-arch stone bridge constructed in the late 18th century.
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There are over 25 mountain bike trails around Yscir, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has rated these routes with an average score of 4.6 stars.
Yes, Yscir offers several easy mountain bike trails. For a gentle ride, consider the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal – Brynich Aqueduct loop from Brecon, which is 14.1 miles (22.7 km) long and follows canal-side paths through open countryside.
For more advanced riders, Yscir has several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Talybont on Usk & The Gap loop from Brecon is a popular choice, covering 24.7 miles (39.7 km) with varied terrain. Another challenging option is the Taff Trail Pen y Fan Loop, which features extensive climbs and panoramic views.
Many of the easier routes along the canal paths are suitable for families. The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal – Brynich Aqueduct loop from Brecon is a good example, offering flat terrain and scenic views without demanding climbs.
The best time for mountain biking in Yscir is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. The region's varied terrain, including canal paths and hill country, can be enjoyed in different seasons, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions outside of peak season.
Yscir's mountain bike trails feature a diverse landscape, including river valleys, canal paths, and ascents into hill country. You'll encounter a mix of open landscapes, areas near reservoirs and aqueducts, and routes that follow historical waterways and lead towards natural features like Pen y Fan and The Gap Pass.
Generally, there are no specific permits required for mountain biking on public bridleways and designated trails in the Yscir area. However, always respect local signage and private land regulations, especially within the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Many routes offer views of significant natural and man-made landmarks. You might pass by the Tommy Jones Memorial, ride near Cwm Llwch Lake, or see the Upper Neuadd Dam. Higher routes provide panoramic views from summits like Pen y Fan and Corn Du summit.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Yscir are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Talybont on Usk & The Gap loop from Brecon and the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal – Brynich Aqueduct loop from Brecon.
After rain, many trails in Yscir, particularly those in the hill country and less-maintained paths, can become muddy and slippery. Canal paths tend to drain better but can still have wet sections. Always check local weather forecasts and consider the type of terrain before heading out after heavy rainfall.
Many trails in Yscir are dog-friendly, especially those on public rights of way. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, particularly in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code and clean up after your dog.
While specific amenities vary by route, many trails in Yscir pass through or near villages and towns like Brecon and Talybont-on-Usk, where you can find cafes, pubs, and other services. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot or local information for specific refreshment stops along your chosen trail.


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