Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Usk Reservoir Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-3h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    8.7 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    244 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Usk Reservoir Walk is a great adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that offers a chance to explore a lovely body of water set in the Welsh countryside. While out walking the trail, you will follow along the edge of the Usk Reservoir and enjoy beautifully scenic views across the surface of the water and the surrounding woodland landscape. This is a fantastic walking route that is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Usk Reservoir Walk on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Usk Reservoir Walk

    As the Usk Reservoir Walk does pass through some woodland terrain that can become wet and muddy after periods of rainfall, you will want to ensure that you wear proper footwear for this walk. Additionally, try to arrive early to secure parking, as the car park is fairly small and usually fills up with anglers and cyclists also looking to enjoy the area.

    Featuring charming woodland terrain and a beautifully scenic body of water, the Usk Reservoir Walk has all the makings of a relaxing day out on the trail in Brecon Beacons National Park. With such a laid back environment, this route is great for all ages and skill levels, and will certainly allow you to reconnect with the natural world.

    Setting out from the Usk Reservoir Car Park, you will make your way north to cross over the dam wall, taking in some beautifully scenic views across the reservoir as it stretches out to the west. Upon reaching the opposite side of the dam wall, you will meet up with a lane and follow it to the west for 1.1 km, where you will enter into the cover of the forest and continue along the shoreline of the reservoir until you arrive at a stream.

    After crossing over the stream, you will make your way gently downhill through the tree cover to reach the water’s edge, where you will have an amazing view of the surrounding terrain. From here, continue walking along the water’s edge in order to loop around the southwest corner of the reservoir, following the trail as it bends to the east to eventually bring you to the banks of the River Usk.

    Once you have crossed over the River Usk, you will head northeast through the Glasfynydd Forest, taking some time to appreciate the tranquil woodland surroundings, before meeting up with a lane. Turning left here, you will follow the lane to the northeast for 0.8 km, eventually exiting the tree cover to arrive back at the car park where you began the Usk Reservoir Walk.

    Trail Highlights

    Usk Reservoir

    Situated in the Upper Usk Valley, the Usk Reservoir was constructed in 1955 by the Swansea City Council and is now maintained by Welsh Water. The 280 acres body of water is located within Brecon Beacons National Park and is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and anglers.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does it cost to fish at the Usk Reservoir?

    The cost to fish at the Usk Reservoir can vary depending on the age of the angler and how many fish they are looking to catch. It is best to look into the various fishing permits beforehand to see which one meets your needs.

    Can you paddle on the Usk Reservoir?

    While watersports are permitted on the Usk Reservoir, you will need to either be a part of a club or hold a Brecon Beacons National Park Reservoir Passport to do so.

    Insider Hints for Usk Reservoir Walk

    • Arrive early, as the car park is fairly small.
    • Wear proper walking boots to traverse the terrain.

    Getting to the Usk Reservoir Walk Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Usk Reservoir Walk can be found at the Usk Reservoir car park, just 8.5 km west of Trecastle.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-Round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Usk Reservoir Walk Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Usk Reservoir Walk Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter