Caban Coch Dam – Elan Valley Walk

This short walk in the Elan valley starting at Caban Coch Dam has amazing views for little effort. There are so many walks from here but if you want a quick stop off, this is the one to do.

What to expect

This is an easy to follow route with great paths all around, making it a good option for year round walks. We visited during a dry spell so the water was contained in the dam but we can imagine how amazing it would look in winter. We will definitely be back to see that.

This is a beautiful short walk but don’t be afraid to explore a little at the waters edge, theres a boardwalk that takes you down to the river before crossing the bridge with a round house in there, a great place for kids to explore.

Getting there & parking

Use postcode LD6 5HP to get to the lay-by parking. Go past the main visitor centre and the car park is to the right of the dam wall. If you would prefer to stay at river level you can park in the visitor centre for £3 all day.

Good to know

The route

The walk begins at the top of the dam wall before descending into the valley, across the bridge and into woodland. At the bottom you cross the river again on a different bridge before heading up the other side.

Tips & what to bring

The walk in summer is beautiful but we imagine a winter walk to be special in a different kind of way, so don’t let the weather put you off visiting, especially after heavy rainfall.

Eat & drink nearby

You can get refreshments in the visitor centre or the town of Rhayader is only a short drive away, alternatively you could follow our Caban Coch Dam to Rhayader walk and get lunch in the village.

Narrative Coffee Shop, Rhayader Cafe

A speciality coffee shop in the beautiful Welsh market town of Rhayader.

3.6 miles away 📍 Map View →

The Lamb & Flag, Rhayader ✦ NewPub

This Welsh pub is the perfect stop off after doing the Elan Valley to Rhayader walk along 'The Dragon Trail.'

3.6 miles away 📍 Map View →

Amazing Burgers At The White Horse Pub

Probably the best burgers in Builth Wells.

11.1 miles away 📍 Map View →

Cwtch Cafe, Builth Wells Cafe

An amazing selection of homemade cakes in Builth Wells serving big portions.

11.2 miles away 📍 Map View →

See all food and drink on the map →

Places to stay nearby

Tipi Stay At Cwm Wye Off Grid Camping, Mid Wales ✦ NewGlamping

Escape to this off grid campsite for peace, serenity and your own slice of nature's paradise.

7.5 miles away 📍 Map View →

See all places to stay on the map →

More walks near here

Elan Valley Visitor Centre To Rhayader – The Dragon Trail

Easy–Moderate 📏 7.7 Miles ⏱ 4 Hours

0.3 miles away View →

Riverside Walk From Builth Wells – Wye Valley

Easy–Moderate 📏 7.5 Miles ⏱ 4 Hours

11.1 miles away View →

See all walks →

POIs nearby

Garreg Ddu Dam, Elan Valley A completely submerged dam that you can drive over 📍 0.9 miles away View on map → Craig Goch Dam, Elan Valley Often called the 'top dam' it was completed in 1904 📍 3.1 miles away View on map →