Waun Fach loop via the Dragons Back — Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park
Waun Fach loop via the Dragons Back — Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park
4.9
(247)
1,460
hikers
Waun Fach loop via the Dragons Back — Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park
03:42
10.8km
550m
Hiking
Embark on the Waun Fach loop via the Dragon's Back for a memorable hike through the Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park. This moderate route covers 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1815 feet (553 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 41 minutes to complete. You will traverse rugged landscapes, including gravel paths, worn tracks, and grassy ridgelines, leading you to the distinctive Dragon's Back with its humps and bluffs. As you ascend towards Waun Fach, the terrain shifts to moorland, which can be boggy after rain, but rewards you with expansive 360-degree panoramic views that stretch across southern Wales and even include Pen y Fan in the distance.
To plan your visit, the trail commonly starts from the village of Pengenffordd. Many hikers utilize the car park located at the Dinas Castle Inn, which provides convenient access to the trailhead. You have the option to tackle the Dragon's Back either on your ascent or descent; some prefer to reach Waun Fach first via a track in a side valley for a gentler climb, then descend the exciting
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
757 m
Castell Dinas Hillfort and Castle Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.74 km
View from the Dragon's Back
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
4.74 km
Pen y Manllwyn Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
Jones and sub Marsh summit
Tip by
5.69 km
Waun Fach summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
10.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.04 km
1.21 km
1.02 km
862 m
687 m
Surfaces
8.23 km
1.03 km
877 m
687 m
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Elevation
Highest point (790 m)
Lowest point (260 m)
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Weather
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Friday 8 May
16°C
6°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
That was a blast. Short and sweet, excellent views, and some good ascents but not too bad
Parking was quite a problem. I got lucky and found a spot. I would advise arriving earlier in the day if you can. Trail is fairly steep near the beginning, but you’re rewarded with fantastic views. Near the end you’ll have to deal with steep declines as you make your way back down the other side. Well worth doing!
