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MTB trails
United Kingdom
Wales
South Wales
Rhondda Cynon Taf

Abercynon

The best MTB trails around Abercynon

4.6

(163)

2,654

riders

100

rides

Mountain biking around Abercynon features a landscape shaped by river valleys, notably the Taff, and surrounding hills. The area includes sections of the historic Taff Trail and former tramroad routes, offering varied terrain. Riders can expect a mix of riverside paths, forested sections, and ascents to local viewpoints. The region's geology provides a foundation for trails that range from gentle gradients to more challenging climbs.

Best mountain bike trails in Abercynon

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Quakers Yard Viaduct – Taff Trail Tramroad Section loop from Quakers Yard, a 40.2 miles (64.6 km) trail that takes 4 hours 22 minutes to complete. This route follows sections of the Taff Trail and includes the Quakers Yard Viaduct.
  • Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is River Taff from the Taff Trail – View of the Taff Valley loop from Abercynon, an easy 16.1 miles (25.9 km) path. This route offers views of the Taff Valley along the river.
  • Local mountain bikers also love the Pen-y-Foel Trig Point – View of St. Gwynno Forest loop from Abercynon, a 22.9 miles (36.9 km) trail leading through St. Gwynno Forest, often completed in about 3 hours 8 minutes.
  • Mountain biking around Abercynon is defined by river valleys, forested hills, and former tramroad sections. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
  • The routes in Abercynon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 2500 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Abercynon's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 22, 2026

5.0

(2)

15

riders

#1.

Quaker's Yard Viaduct – Taff Trail Tramroad Section loop from Abercynon

31.0km

01:55

310m

310m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Abercynon

Crossing Bannau Brycheiniog from Cardiff — the Taff Trail

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Crossing Bannau Brycheiniog from Cardiff — the Taff Trail

Cycling Collection by

Katherine Moore

Tips from the Community

David Howells
April 22, 2026, Pentwyn Reservoir

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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Cracking Cafe open, Sat Sun and Wed year round.

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Always a nice ride across this section. Great views, but can be mucky in the winter.

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Jo
October 8, 2025, Pontsticill Reservoir

lovely . ( no phone signal ) bring yourself a drink and enjoy the view

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A remnant of Merthyr's past. This bridge carried a railway line that either took you through a tunnel to Aberdare or sent you north towards Cefn Coed and on to Brecon via Torpantau. Under the bridge was the Merthyr to Cardiff Glamorganshire canal which carried the produce of Cyfarthfa iron works to the ports of Cardiff which was then shipped all over the world.

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To access this area is a very steep incline and decline into this valley section 7- 9% gradient in either direction. The Taf Fechan LNR comprises about 2.5 km of river with steep valley sides of Carboniferous limestone. The river has eroded the limestone into a narrow gorge in the centre of the site. A mosaic of deciduous woodland on the slopes with a canopy of Beech, Birch and Ash, gives way to Alder and Grey Willow closer to the river.

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The Cefn-coed Viaduct is the third-largest viaduct in Wales. This huge, curved structure once carried the Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil Junction Railway and is now part of the Taff Trail, which is Route 8 of the National Cycle Network that runs between Cardiff and Brecon. It offers walkers and cyclists a superb view of the Taf Fawr as it cascades over the many weirs in the valley

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shaded area of woodland

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are there around Abercynon?

There are over 100 mountain bike trails available in the Abercynon area on komoot, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection of routes, from easy riverside paths to more challenging climbs through forested hills.

Are there any easy or family-friendly mountain bike trails in Abercynon?

Yes, Abercynon offers several easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners and families. A great option is the River Taff from the Taff Trail – View of the Taff Valley loop from Abercynon, an easy 16.1-mile (25.9 km) path that provides scenic views along the Taff Valley.

What are the options for advanced mountain bikers in Abercynon?

While many trails are moderate, Abercynon does offer routes with more significant climbs and distances for advanced riders. The region's varied terrain, including forested sections and ascents to local viewpoints, provides opportunities for challenging rides. You can filter for 'difficult' routes on komoot to find the most demanding options.

Are there circular mountain bike routes available?

Yes, many mountain bike trails around Abercynon are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Quakers Yard Viaduct – Taff Trail Tramroad Section loop from Quakers Yard is a popular 40.2-mile (64.6 km) circular trail that follows sections of the Taff Trail.

What kind of scenery can I expect on mountain bike trails in Abercynon?

Mountain biking in Abercynon offers diverse scenery, including picturesque river valleys, notably the Taff, and surrounding forested hills. You'll encounter sections of the historic Taff Trail, former tramroad routes, and trails leading to local viewpoints. The Pen-y-Foel Trig Point – View of St. Gwynno Forest loop from Abercynon provides excellent views of St. Gwynno Forest.

What can I see along the mountain bike trails around Abercynon?

Along the mountain bike trails, you can explore various natural and historical points of interest. Notable peaks and viewpoints include Garth Summit and Caerphilly Mountain Summit. You might also encounter beautiful lakes such as Cwm Clydach Countryside Park or Taff Bargoed Country Park.

What is the best season for mountain biking in Abercynon?

Abercynon's mountain bike trails are generally enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though some trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.

Are there places to park near the mountain bike trails?

Yes, many trailheads and popular starting points in and around Abercynon, especially along the Taff Trail and near villages, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions on komoot for detailed parking information for your chosen trail.

Are there cafes or refreshment stops along the mountain bike routes?

Given the region's popularity, especially along the Taff Trail and in nearby towns and villages, you will find cafes, pubs, and shops where you can stop for refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify potential stops along the way.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about Abercynon?

The mountain bike trails in Abercynon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 150 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic river valleys, and the well-maintained sections of the Taff Trail and former tramroad routes that offer a mix of challenging and leisurely rides.

How long do mountain bike trails in Abercynon typically take to complete?

Trail durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. For instance, an easy route like the River Taff from the Taff Trail – View of the Taff Valley loop from Abercynon (16.1 miles) might take around 2 hours. Longer, moderate trails such as the Taff Trail Tramroad Section – Quaker's Yard Viaduct loop from Quakers Yard (29.9 miles) can take over 3 hours.

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