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.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
5.0
(2)
15
riders
31.0km
01:55
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
13
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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12
riders
39.3km
02:25
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(12)
7
riders
36.5km
03:07
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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