The Elan Valley Trail is a linear path following the line of the old Birmingham Corporation Railway. The trail starts in Cwmdauddwr, just west of Rhayader and finishes 13 km (8 miles) further up the Elan Valley at Craig Goch Reservoir.

The purpose of the trail is to improve access to the Elan Valley and its countryside, particularly for the less-able. The trail between Craig Goch and Pen y Garreg is classed as a bridleway. Between Pen y Garreg and Rhayader however the trail is a permissive route agreed by the landowners, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Radnorshire Wildlife Trust and Powys County Council and does not follow a right of way. The trail is open for use by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. As on bridleways, cyclists and horse riders are required to give way to walkers and the less-able.

The Route

The route of the Elan Valley Trail is easy to follow and has information boards with maps along its length. Access to the trail can be gained at several points from the B4518. It is necessary to cross the road on certain sections so please beware of traffic. The surfaced path starts on the B4518 west of Rhayader. It leaves the road on the left past the last group of houses, opposite a small car park grid reference SN966677.

After 4 km (2.5miles) you will see the left hand turn in the road which leads down to the Visitor Centre, from this point you can either follow the road down the hill ½ km to the Visitor Centre, or cross the road and follow the next section of trail which runs for a further 9 km (5.5 miles) up the Elan Valley to Craig Goch Dam.

Please observe the Country Code whilst in the area; keep dogs under control, leave gates as you find them and take all of your litter home.

Cyclists please ride slowly and give way to all other users. 

The Elan Valley Trail project is supported by; Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Elan Valley Trust, Countryside Council for Wales, Sustrans, European Regional Development Fund, Powys County Council and The Millennium Commission and Radnorshire Wildlife Trust.