The best running trails around Cray
4.7
(21)
2,793
runners
86
runs
Jogging around Cray offers a diverse landscape characterized by mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and significant elevation changes. The region features prominent peaks and hills, often providing views of reservoirs and national park scenery. Running routes frequently traverse open moorland, offering a challenging environment for runners.
Best jogging routes around Cray
- The most popular jogging route is Fan Hir Ridge, Fan Brycheiniog & Lyn y Fan Fach loop from Tafarn y Garreg, a 12.4 miles (20.0 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
103
runners
20.0km
02:48
830m
830m
This difficult jogging route takes you on a challenging journey across the Carmarthen Fans, offering extensive ridge walking and views of glacial lakes like Llyn y Fan Fach. You'll cover…
11
runners
The Fan Gyhirych & Fan Nedd loop from Afon Lila offers a challenging jogging experience through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. This difficult 12.8-mile (20.5 km) route features…
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1
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
96
runners
19.0km
02:42
790m
790m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
50
runners
8.06km
00:52
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Maen Madog also called Maen Madoc is a standing stone in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, about one mile north of Ystradfellte. It stands immediately beside the old Roman road known as Sarn Helen, just outside the Blaen Llia forestry plantation. A mile to the north is Maen Llia, a Bronze Age standing stone. The stone is not in its original location, and no grave has been found. Historians theorise that the burial remains were destroyed by the extremely acid soil. When Maen Madoc was recorded in 1805 it was recumbent. It was re-erected at some point in the 19th century and again in 1940. It is believed to have been erected in the late Roman period, possibly to mark the site of an early Christian burial. The southwest edge of the stone is inscribed with very worn Latin text reading 'DERVAC(IVS) FILIVS IVSTI (H)IC IACIT'. This translates loosely as 'Dervacus, Son of Justus lies here'. One theory says that Maen Madoc was a pre-existing Bronze Age standing stone that was simply re-used to mark a late-Roman burial site.
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High elevation trail, good footwear and waterproof is a must even on a clear day as the weather can suddenly change
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The views down onto Llyn Y Fawr from here is pretty spectacular. This is one of the nicest places in the Brecon Beacons to walk along. Once you have put in the effort to get here, the ridge has a good footpath, there's a nice walled shelter and the views down towards the lake is pretty awesome on a good day.
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A quieter route that leads to the lake. Beautiful and challenging. ideal for all weathers.
3
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The route of the old tramway, once used by the local quarrying and mining works, now makes an enjoyable and atmospheric access trail to the mountains. It's used by both the Beacons Way and the Cambrian Way long-distance trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on running trails around Cray?
The Cray area, nestled within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, is characterized by challenging mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and significant elevation changes. You'll encounter prominent peaks, open moorland, and often enjoy views of reservoirs and national park scenery. It's a demanding but rewarding environment for runners.
How many running routes are available in the Cray area?
There are nearly 100 running routes around Cray documented on komoot. This includes a wide range of options, with about 3 easy routes, 33 moderate routes, and 60 difficult trails, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes in Cray?
While many routes in Cray are challenging, there are a few easier options. For instance, the Pwll Gwyn loop from Sennybridge is a moderate 8 km (5 miles) trail with less elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous run.
What do other runners enjoy most about the trails in Cray?
The running routes in Cray are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners frequently praise the challenging mountain ascents, the expansive reservoir views, and the wild beauty of the open moorland within the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Are there any circular running routes in the Cray region?
Yes, many of the popular running routes in Cray are circular. Examples include the demanding Fan Hir Ridge, Fan Brycheiniog & Lyn y Fan Fach loop from Tafarn y Garreg, and the scenic Fan Gyhirych & Fan Nedd loop from Afon Lila, both offering extensive loops through the mountainous landscape.
What are some scenic points of interest I might see along the running routes?
The Cray area offers stunning natural beauty. Along your runs, you might pass by impressive summits like Pen y Fan, Corn Du summit, and Fan Brycheiniog summit. You can also enjoy views of beautiful lakes such as Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr, often visible from higher elevations.
What is the typical length and duration of running routes in Cray?
The routes in Cray vary significantly in length and duration. Many of the more challenging trails, like the Fan Gyhirych & Fan Nedd loop from Cray Reservoir, can be over 20 km (12 miles) long and take around 3 hours to complete. Shorter, moderate options are also available, typically ranging from 8-15 km (5-9 miles).
Are there any routes that offer views of reservoirs?
Yes, several routes provide excellent views of reservoirs. The Fan Gyhirych & Fan Nedd loop from Cray Reservoir is a prime example, offering expansive vistas of the reservoir and the surrounding national park scenery as you run.
What is the best season for running in Cray?
While running in Cray is possible year-round, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with cooler temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer can be beautiful but also hot and busy, while winter brings the challenge of colder weather, potential snow, and shorter daylight hours, requiring appropriate gear and caution.
Are there any less crowded running routes in Cray?
Given the region's popularity, especially within the Brecon Beacons National Park, some main trails can be busy. To find less crowded options, consider exploring some of the moderate or difficult routes that venture further into the moorland, or try running during off-peak hours, such as early mornings on weekdays.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Cray?
Many trails in the Brecon Beacons National Park, where Cray is located, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially on open moorland where livestock may be present, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always check specific route details for any restrictions.
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