The Brecon Beacons National Park, now officially known by its Welsh name Bannau Brycheiniog, is one of the most spectacular areas in South Wales for outdoor adventures with your dog. From towering peaks and cascading waterfalls to open moorland and tranquil lakes, the landscape here is endlessly varied and packed with opportunities to explore.
As with all upland areas, you’ll need to keep your dog under close control around livestock, especially during lambing season, but there are also plenty of stretches where well-behaved dogs can enjoy some off-lead freedom. Here are some of the best dog friendly walks across the Brecon Beacons to get you started.
1. Four Waterfalls Walk (Ystradfellte)
A classic Brecon Beacons route, the Four Waterfalls Walk takes you through ancient woodland and along gushing rivers to a series of breathtaking cascades, including the famous where you can actually walk behind the curtain of water. The paths can get muddy and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is a must, but the scenery makes every step worth it. Dogs will love the woodland trails and shady spots to cool off in the streams.
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Possible in woodland areas but keep on lead near drops and other visitors
2. Pen y Fan and Corn Du
No trip to the Brecon Beacons would be complete without conquering its highest peak. The circular route up Pen y Fan and Corn Du is a manageable climb for most fit dogs and owners, offering panoramic views across the park. It can be busy on weekends and holidays, so early starts are best. There’s little shade or water on the upper slopes, so bring plenty for your dog and be prepared for changeable weather at the summit.
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Suitable in open areas with good recall (but use a lead around livestock)
3. Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr
This is one of the most scenic and rewarding walks in the Brecon Beacons, taking you around two glacial lakes set beneath dramatic cliffs. The circular route offers a good mix of climbs, ridge walking, and easy paths beside the water. It’s a peaceful area that feels far removed from the busier central peaks, and dogs will love the open space and fresh mountain air. Just be cautious around the steep escarpments if your dog tends to roam.
Distance: 9.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Off-lead: Long off-lead stretches possible, but keep a lead handy for livestock
4. The Dragon’s Back (Y Grib)
This walk gets its name from the ridge’s resemblance to the scales of a dragon’s back, and it’s one of the most visually striking routes in the park. Starting from Pengenffordd, the path climbs steadily to the summit of Y Grib before looping around Waun Fach, the highest point in the Black Mountains. It’s a mix of grassy ridges, open moorland, and stunning views across the valley. Dogs with good stamina will love it, but be aware of steep edges and grazing ponies.
Distance: 7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Allowed, though leads are recommended around livestock and ridgelines
5. Cribarth (The Sleeping Giant)
A quieter alternative to the main summits, Cribarth offers a fantastic blend of scenery and local history. The route winds past old tramways and quarries before reaching the ridge, where you can enjoy far-reaching views of the Tawe Valley. The landscape here has a wild, remote feel, and you’re less likely to encounter crowds. Dogs will enjoy the mix of grassy paths and open ground, but it’s worth keeping them close or ideally on a lead near the quarry edges.
Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Suitable in many areas, but short lead near livestock and quarry sites
6. Taf Fechan Horseshoe Ridge Walk
For those after a full day on the hills, the Taf Fechan Horseshoe is a rewarding challenge that takes in four of the park’s major peaks: Corn Du, Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big. It’s a demanding route with steep ascents and long descents, but the sense of scale and scenery is unbeatable. Expect a mix of open moorland, ridges and valleys, making it an ideal adventure, but only for well-conditioned dogs who can handle a big day out.
This route would not be suitable for young dogs (under 1 year) or older dogs. It’s also only suitable for humans who have some experience on the hills and are in good shape.
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Off-lead: Limited — best kept on lead due to steep sections and grazing animals
7. Gareg Llwyd and Carreg yr Ogof
Another full day hike that’s only suited to those with experience and their equally well-conditioned dogs, albeit not quite as challenging as the Horseshoe Ridge walk. Located in the quieter western reaches of the park, this route climbs steadily to the twin summits of Gareg Llwyd and Carreg yr Ogof. It’s a remote, rugged walk with far fewer visitors, perfect if you’re after solitude. The terrain is rocky underfoot, but the views over Carmarthenshire and beyond are stunning. Dogs with good fitness will relish the open landscape and wide horizons.
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Off-lead: Good freedom for confident dogs, but leads needed near grazing sheep
8. Tair Carn Isaf and Tair Carn Uchaf
This route near Llanddeusant offers a great balance of effort and reward. It climbs gently across open moorland to the twin cairned summits of Tair Carn Isaf and Tair Carn Uchaf, with spectacular views in every direction. The paths are straightforward, making this an excellent option for walkers who want something less intense but still scenic. Dogs can enjoy plenty of space to roam, and the high ground is usually quieter than the central peaks.
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Suitable for most of the walk with good recall
Map of the Brecon Beacons Walks
Explore these great dog-friendly hikes and walks across the Brecon Beacons using our handy map below, simply click the icons to get more details and directions to plan your day out.
A rewarding moorland hike near Llanddeusant that offers wide-open views and gentle gradients. The cairned summits are atmospheric spots for a rest, and it’s usually much quieter than the main peaks.
Distance (miles): 5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Good
Parking available?: Yes
A remote and rugged walk in the western Brecon Beacons, ideal for those seeking solitude and big views. The twin peaks provide sweeping panoramas over Carmarthenshire, and the area is far quieter than the central Beacons.
Distance (miles): 10
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Off-lead possibility: Good
Parking available?: Yes
A classic mountain circuit linking the four major summits of Corn Du, Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big. This challenging route provides some of the park’s best panoramic views and a serious day out for fit hikers and dogs.
Distance (miles): 10
Difficulty: Challenging
Off-lead possibility: Limited
Parking available?: Yes
A quieter yet fascinating walk combining local mining history with expansive views of the Tawe Valley. The route explores old tramways and quarry remains before rising to the ridge of the “Sleeping Giant.”
Distance (miles): 6
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Yes, with care
Parking available?: Yes
A distinctive ridge rising above the village of Pengenffordd, offering breathtaking views across the Black Mountains. The ridge undulates like a dragon’s spine, making for a dramatic and rewarding hike.
Distance (miles): 7.5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Partial
Parking available?: Yes
A spectacular circular route linking two glacial lakes beneath the cliffs of the Carmarthen Fans. Peaceful and remote, it’s ideal for fit dogs who love open space and cool water to paddle in. Take care on the escarpment edge.
Distance (miles): 9.5
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Off-lead possibility: Good, but be mindful of livestock
Parking available?: Yes
The most famous walk in the Brecon Beacons and a must for any visitor. The well-trodden path to Pen y Fan and Corn Du rewards you with sweeping summit views and a real sense of achievement. Best tackled early to avoid crowds and hot weather.
Distance (miles): 4
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Limited
Parking available?: Yes
A stunning woodland trail linking four spectacular waterfalls, including Sgwd yr Eira where you can walk behind the cascade itself. Expect muddy sections, rocky paths and plenty of photo opportunities — a real highlight for adventurous dogs who love water.
Distance (Miles): 5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Some woodland sections
Parking available?: Yes
Explore adventures further afield too! Our Wildpack Map shows locations for dog friendly walks, campsites, road trips and other points of interest across the UK.
Before You Go
- Always check for local guidance or restrictions before heading out. Many areas require dogs on leads during lambing season (March–July).
- Carry enough water for both you and your dog, as some upland routes have limited sources.
- Remember to take poo bags, and dispose of them responsibly.
- Pack a towel for muddy paws — many of these routes feature rivers or waterfalls.
- Wear proper hiking footwear; paths can be rocky, steep, or muddy depending on weather.
What’s Nearby
The Brecon Beacons National Park sits at the heart of some of the best dog friendly walking in Wales, making it an ideal base if you want to mix mountain days with woodland, waterfalls and coastal routes further afield.
- Dog friendly walks in Pembrokeshire – Explore the stunning coastline of Pembrokeshire and hike some beautiful trails
- Dog friendly walks in the Wye Valley – Riverside paths, limestone gorges and wooded climbs within easy driving distance
- Dog friendly walks in the Forest of Dean – Ancient woodland, sculpture trails and gentle valley walks just over the border in England
- Dog friendly beaches in South Wales – Wide sandy beaches and dramatic coastal walks for a change of scenery after the hills
Final Thoughts
The Brecon Beacons is one of the most diverse and rewarding places to explore with your dog. Whether you’re after a short scenic stroll to a waterfall or a full day tackling the high ridges, there’s something here for every ability level. With good preparation and a bit of care around livestock, your dog can enjoy the same freedom and sense of adventure that makes this landscape so special.
If you’re exploring Wales and you want to adventure further afield than the Brecon Beacons, you might find our guide to dog friendly hikes in Snowdonia useful to start planning your next trip!
For many, walking here isn’t just about exercise — it’s about sharing those quiet, unforgettable moments on the trail with your four-legged companion.