Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX follows the National Trust's circular route from Pont ar Daf over Pen y Fan and Corn Du, returning via the ridge towards Storey Arms. It covers 6.6 km with about 470 m of ascent and usually takes 3 to 4 hours. The paths are well made, but this is exposed mountain ground with steep steps near both summits.
Cross the footbridge from Pont ar Daf and climb the Beacons Way to Bwlch Duwynt. Take the path traversing Corn Du's southern slope to the saddle, then make the final climb to Pen y Fan at 886 m. Retrace to the saddle and climb the pitched path onto Corn Du, whose summit cairn is a Bronze Age burial monument. Descend Corn Du's northern side, pass the Tommy Jones obelisk area and follow the permissive path and Storey Arms track back to Pont ar Daf.
This is a circular, not a simple out-and-back. Several paths leave the two summits, and steep corrie edges are close in cloud. Follow the GPX carefully, keep well back from drops and expect crowds at weekends. Pont ar Daf has limited parking; use public transport or another legal option if it is full.
A strenuous circular mountain walk on well-made footpaths to Pen y Fan and Corn Du.
National Trust
Route Waypoints
Start at the National Trust car park on the A470. Spaces are limited, so never park on verges or block emergency access.
Pass through the kissing gate and cross the wooden bridge, then follow the surfaced Beacons Way uphill.
At Windy Pass, take the path traversing Corn Du's southern slope towards the saddle.
Continue across the saddle and climb the pitched path towards Pen y Fan.
Reach the 886 m summit cairn. Retrace to the saddle rather than descending towards Cribyn.
Climb the pitched path to the 873 m top. Do not disturb the Bronze Age cairn.
Descend from Corn Du and follow the permissive path towards Storey Arms, crossing the stream as shown.
Use the surfaced track and roadside-linked path back to the car park.
Essential Tips
The return leaves Corn Du towards the obelisk and Storey Arms. Do not simply follow the busiest descending crowd.
Steep drops lie close to both summits. Give edges plenty of room in cloud, wind or snow.
Pont ar Daf fills quickly. Use buses or another designated car park instead of roadside verges.
Corn Du's cairn is a Bronze Age burial chamber. Do not move stones, build cairns or climb on fragile edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Pen y Fan walk from Pont ar Daf take?
It usually takes 3 to 4 hours to complete this circular route. The route covers 6.6 km with 425 m of ascent, so factor in your fitness level and weather conditions.
Is there parking at Pont ar Daf?
Yes, there's a National Trust car park at Pont ar Daf, but spaces are very limited and it fills quickly. Use public transport or another designated car park if it's full — never park on verges or block emergency access.
Can I touch the cairn on top of Corn Du?
No, don't touch it. The summit cairn is a Bronze Age burial monument, so you shouldn't move stones, build on it, or climb on its fragile edges — it's protected archaeology.