The Taff Trail:Abercanaid
Abercanaid and Pentrebach
Abercanaid and Pentrebach are two small villages situated on opposite sides of the River Taff. The Railway Station at Pentrebach is connected to Abercanaid and above it the Taff Trail via a footbridge. This station with frequent trains to Merthyr and Cardiff is an ideal destination for cycling North into the hills of the Brecon Beacons.
Abercanaid to Aberfan
(approx 2.8 miles 4.5km)
Leaving Abercanaid going South with the housing on the left and the hillside on the right, we pass underneath a high viaduct which carries the main road across the valley.
The tail now alternates between housing and woodland. There is a change in levels before we get to Aberfan.
Abercanaid to Merthyr Tydfil
(approx 1.6 miles 2.5km)
Travelling North from Abercanaid takes us along the towpath of the former Glamorganshire Canal and through alongside Industrial Estates. The canal towpath is intersected by numerous local roads (watch for traffic). There is also an easily missed right turn behind a crash barrier by a bus shelter.
After the brick arch of a former railway bridge turn right down to the river and past Rhydycar Leisure Centre. This is a useful car park and a stop on the Beacons Bike Bus service.
The Glamorganshire Canal originally continued to end at the Cafarthfa Iron Works.
Follow the path through to the Merthyr College.
Trevithick Trail Pentrebach to Pontygwaith.
Travelling South, just before Abercanaid, turn left for the Trevithick Trail. This provides an alternative choice between Pentrbach and Pontygwaith.