Ystwyth Trail: Black Covert to Llanilar and back
Walk
- Distance
- 6.6 mi
- Est. time
- 3h 30m
- Difficulty
- Easy
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About this walk
Start in the Natural Resources Wales public car park at Black Covert, reached from the lane just south of Pont Trawsgoed. Walk out to the quiet lane, turn towards the signed Ystwyth Trail junction and follow the former railway towards Llanilar. Cross the B4575 carefully at the signed trail crossing, then continue through riverside woodland and open valley fields. At Llanilar use the short signed access to the old station car park as the turnaround, then retrace the same trail to Black Covert.
Allow about three and a half hours with stops. The main shared trail is gently graded, with gravel and compacted surfaces, occasional gates and patches of mud or puddles after rain. The car park approach includes a short quiet lane, and there is a road crossing in each direction. Watch for cyclists and horse riders, keep dogs under control and stay away from the river edge during high water. Carry food and water; refreshments in Llanilar require a short village detour and depend on opening hours. Black Covert has picnic space and public parking, with no overnight parking. Follow signs for current forestry operations. This route stays on the valley trail and does not use the Birch Grove woodland hill walk.
Walk details
- County
- Dyfed
- Walk type
- Out & back
- Category
- Canal / Riverside
- Distance
- 6.6 mi (10.6 km)
- Est. time
- 3h 30m
- Explorer
- Yes, off the beaten track
Route map
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Along the route
2 placesMore walks nearby
Other routes starting close to this one
Hafren Forest: full Source of the Severn Trail
Elan Valley: Reservoir Trail to Pen y Garreg Dam
Dolaucothi Estate: Cothi Valley and Red Waymarked Circuit
Explore more: Walks in Dyfed
Joining a walk
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Can I join if no one else is going?
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
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What does the organiser do?
The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Can I walk this route on my own?
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
What happens after I join?
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
How do I confirm plans with the group?
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.