Craig Cerrig Gleisiad hike guide | A Brecon Beacons hidden gem
The 629m peak of Craig Cerrig Gleisiad may not be the tallest, or the most well known the Brecon Beacons, but it arguably has has one of the finest views.
Nicknamed the Eiger of the Beacons due to its extremely steep north face, this dramatic flat topped glacial mountain sits within a nature reserve and offers stupendous views towards the highest mountains in South wales, Pen-y-fan and Corn Du.
At just over two miles the hike maybe short but it certainly a packs a punch.
In addition, its status as an unknown gem, combined with the fact that it’s a stones throw away from the start point of Pen-y-Fan, means you’ll probably have this place to yourself.
In fact when I wild camped on the summit back in June i didn’t see a single person from 5pm until 9am the next morning! Simply lovely…
Hike Distance: 2.3 miles / 4 km
Hike Duration: 1-2 hours
Elevation gain: 850 ft
Hike Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Where to Park
Parking for Craig Cerrig Gleisiad is located in a lay-by on the western side of the A470, 1.8 miles north of the Storey Arms Outdoor Education Centre, and a few hundred yards south of the Brecon Beacons YHA.
There’s enough space for around 10-15 cars, however given the fact that most people will be climbing the neighbouring Pen-y-Fan you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a space.
The Route
A little over two miles, the loop is short but sweet and can be tackled in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. I would suggest tackling it in an anticlockwise direction and heading through the nature reserve first. This means you’ll be walking towards Pen-y-fan as you skirt around the edge of its steep north face and you’ll descend via the steepest part of the hike.
From the layby, pass through the gate and follow the path past the information board into the nature reserve.
After around 300m you’ll pass through a stone wall with a wooden gate.
From here continue to follow the path through the nature reserve as it weaves its way beneath the imposing sheer walls of the peaks craggy north face.
The path will then begin to climb moderately in a zig zag fashion before bearing left.
From here continue to follow the path as it climbs and loops around towards the steep north face.
The trail will eventually flatten off as you reach the plateau. With a stone wall on your right, follow the trail as it weaves around the ridge-line of the dramatic north face. Here you’ll have fantastic views back down the A470 towards Brecon and towards the magnificent twin peaks of Corn Du & Pen-y-fan.
Eventually the path will drop sharply back down towards the A470 below.
Take your time descending before bearing left, crossing the small stream, before turning tight and passing through the initial stone wall and down to your car.
Sunrise looking down the valley towards Brecon
Sunrise From the summit of Craig Cerrig Gleisiad looking towards Pen-y-Fan & Corn du
Sunset from Craig Cerrig Gleisiad
Final thoughts - It’s the perfect Wildcamp spot and sunrise location
While this may not be the longest or the most challenging of walks, its dramatic yet peaceful location, lack of crowds, alongside the views to hike ratio, make it a hike well worth completing, especially if you’re short of time or want to escape the crowds.
The view from the summit towards the magnificent Pen-y-Fan alongside the ability to descend back to your car in around 15-25 minutes , makes it a fantastic spot to watch the sunset.
It’s also a great place to wildcamp if you’re looking for a peaceful evening with terrific views.
I’ve put together a vlog highlighting a recent camp below. Just remember, arrive late and pack down early, dont light any fires and please leave no trace.
So there we have it, my hike guide to Craig Cerrig Gleisiad.
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You can find more Welsh hiking inspiration in the following blogs
For more travel, hiking, & photography inspiration around Wales check out my in-depth guides to each of my favourite regions below.