Start/Finish Talybont-on-Usk, OS grid reference SO115225 Total distance 30.6km (19 miles) Total ascent 972m (3200 feet) Time 2.5-4 hours Maps Ordnance Survey Explorers OL12 and OL13: Brecon Beacons National Park Summary In some ways, this route is more challenging than the Classic. It’s shorter but has as many climbs and includes a broader variety of surfaces. Start behind the White Hart Inn. Cross the canal to join the Taff Trail, climbing steadily. At 5.5km, you’ll reach a junction. Follow the wide track ahead, signed to Pontsticill. Continue to climb for about 1.8km. At the top of the steep stepped section, carry straight on by the marker post (the left fork). Continue to the quarries. There are boggy sections, so consider a different route if it’s been wet. At the quarry roads, the bridleway goes straight on – it’s easier to turn right onto the track and follow it as it loops left. Turn right onto the Tarmac then bear right very shortly onto a grassy bridleway. Follow the descent, taking care not to miss the right turn above the reservoir after 2.7km. If you end up above the rock outcrops, you have. Descend to the road, passing under the railway bridge. Turn right, then left across the dam. At the junction, double back right. Follow the road into the forest for 500m. Take the left turn into the woods (signed National Cycle Network 8) and follow the road. Emerge onto Tarmac and turn left to cross the dam. Climb past an outdoor education centre and go through a gate onto a stony track. Cross the road to a narrower trail. At the woods, pass through the gate and carry straight on over moorland to reach the junction by the marker post again. Retrace the trail down the stepped section and descend. At the junction take the left fork and follow it to the Talybont Reservoir track. Head north past the dam before forking right and climbing to regain the Taff Trail back to the start point. by nickmtb
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