4.5
(685)
7,002
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking around Pontypridd Town offers a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, rolling hills, and woodlands. The region is shaped by the Taff and Rhondda rivers, providing accessible riverside paths and sections of the Taff Trail. Higher elevations, such as Eglwysilan Mountain, offer significant climbs and panoramic views over the Taff Valley and beyond. Former industrial railway lines and areas like Pontypridd Common contribute to a network of trails for various activity levels.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.6
(5)
52
hikers
8.73km
02:28
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
12
hikers
16.6km
04:53
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
18
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
hikers
3.24km
00:51
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
4.82km
01:19
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful stretch to walk run bike suitable for all ages and fitness levels
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Waterfalls along the Barry Slide walkway
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A climb of two halves, when climbing from the Abertridwr side. First part is gentle, with a slight kick towards the end, a brief moment of rest as you past the junction on your left, after which the road kicks upwards with a 20% gradient, easing off slightly before kicking up again to average around 10% until you reach the summit. Road surface is great, particularly for the second part of the climb. Be sure to take in the views, if you can.
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A lovely walk along the Taff Trail that is suitable for everyone.
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Cefn Eglwysilan is a hill in South Wales, the twin 1,253 feet (382 m) summits of which lie just over one mile (2 km) east of Pontypridd in Rhondda Cynon Taf county borough. Its eastern side lies within the community of Aber Valley in Caerphilly county borough. Like neighbouring Mynydd Eglwysilan, the hill is named after the hamlet of Eglwysilan, the church here being dedicated to an obscure saint Ilan. A wireless transmission station is sited on the more northerly of the two summits (at OS grid ref ST 099911). The southerly one is crowned by a trig point. It is a UK listed Marilyn.
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The Rocking Stone or "Y Maen Chwyf" in Welsh is a glacial boulder remaining from the Ice Age. It formed the central point for a "Gorsedd" or "Gathering of Bards" in 1814, which was organised by stonemason, Edward Williams, known as "Iolo Morganwg". The Gorsedd Circle of smaller stones was constructed in 1849 by Evan Davies, Bardic name "Myfyr Morganwg" and has often been used for Bardic gatherings, and as a focal point for other public occasions.
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There are over 10 hiking routes available directly from bus stations around Pontypridd Town, making it easy to explore the area without a car. These routes range from easy riverside strolls to more challenging mountain ascents.
The trails offer a diverse landscape, from accessible riverside paths along the Taff Trail to challenging ascents up rolling hills like Eglwysilan Mountain. You'll also find routes through woodlands and along former industrial railway lines, providing varied scenery and surfaces.
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for a leisurely walk. For example, the Hiking loop from Pontypridd offers a gentle 6.8 km experience with minimal elevation gain, ideal for beginners or a relaxed outing.
Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, routes like the Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point – River Taff from the Taff Trail loop from Cilfynydd provide significant elevation changes and longer distances, rewarding hikers with expansive views from Cefn Eglwysilan.
Many of the trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. The Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point loop from Pontypridd is a great example, offering a comprehensive tour of the area's natural beauty.
You can enjoy panoramic views from prominent hills such as Eglwysilan Mountain and Graig Llanishen. The Taff Trail offers scenic riverside vistas. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Garth Summit for stunning expansive views over the Taff Valley and beyond.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You might encounter the iconic Pontypridd Bridge, the historic Navigation Colliery, or the ancient Rocking Stones on Pontypridd Common. For a grand historical experience, consider a route that passes near Caerphilly Castle, one of Wales's most impressive fortresses.
Many of the easier routes are suitable for families. Paths along the Taff Trail or within Ynysangharad Park offer gentle gradients and interesting sights. The Hiking loop from Trehafod is a shorter, easy option that families might enjoy.
Most trails in the Pontypridd area are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and along river paths. Always ensure your dog is under control, particularly near livestock or in busy areas, and remember to clean up after them. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Pontypridd offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather, and even winter can be beautiful, though some higher routes might require more preparation due to weather conditions.
Pontypridd Town Centre, where many bus routes converge, offers numerous cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments before or after your hike. Ynysangharad Park also has facilities. Many trails are close enough to the town to make a stop convenient.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from tranquil riverside paths to rewarding mountain views, and the convenience of accessing trails directly from public transport.


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