Corn Du
Hiking Highlight
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for: Brecon Beacons National Park
While there’s a path leading directly to Pen y Fan below the summit, hiking to Corn Du’s majestic peak will give you real bang for your buck. Technically, Corn Du is one of Pen y Fan’s two peaks, despite many hikers bypassing it for the higher. At 2,864 ft (873 m), this flat-topped summit is actually only a fraction shorter.
As the first summit you might reach, depending on your choice of route, standing on Corn Du provides a sense of relief, a burning desire to have a sit down and then a breathless silence as your surroundings sink in.
Far-reaching views across stunning South Wales
In the heart of the Brecon Beacons, from here you’ll have an exquisite view south over the lower hills and mountains and even to the Bristol Channel. Looking down into the extraordinary Pen y Fan horseshoe, you’ll see the mountainside drop away to the Upper Neuadd Reservoir and Taf Fechan’s mystical forest.
Northwards, the undulating, verdant landscape of Mid Wales sprawls out before you while the west displays the rest of the Brecons and distant Black Mountain range. Eastwards, you can admire the peaks of Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big as they curve around to create a photographer’s dream shot.
Hiking trails to Corn Du are usually accessible all year round although heavy snow, rain or strong winds are times to avoid the climb. Spring and summer holiday periods bring crowds so it’s best to start early for a quieter hike. Changeable weather can happen any time, so keep an eye on the forecast as well as the sky and be prepared for wet weather, wind and even harsh sun.
Tips
Corn Du is rarely climbed alone, but as a peak added to an expedition to Pen y Fan. The climb up is a great one though and the views from the top are absolutely spectacular.
On clear days, you can see all the way to the Severn Bridge and beyond, as well as much of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Be careful in bad weather conditions: visibility can shrink to zero on one of the regular foggy days and strong winds will try and blow your sandwiches away!May 7, 2017
From the 2,864 feet (873 m) summit of Corn Du, you get spectacular views of Llyn Cwm Llwch directly below and over Wales stretching out below. The trail to this peak is great fun, whether ascending or descending. Pen y Fan is very close to Corn Du, so it can get busy here at peak times. Get up early to beat the crowds.
October 30, 2018
This is the narrow goat track type of path that goes across the north face of Corn Du. It is fenced off with a wooden handrail by the NT on the PYF side. The path is very narrow and has some exposure but I have been walking across it for the last forty years. I think it adds a bit of spice to your walk and I often stop half way across for a winter coffee/break.
Do not attempt if you are averse to heights otherwise it is a great addition to your day hike.October 22, 2020
Fantastic hike; Exhausting, but quite good to create and on top you will be rewarded with a fantastic view.
November 16, 2019
Hardly anyone goes to Corn Du only, usually it is a mountain that you have to go through to get to Pen-y-fan. There are several routes leading up, everyone will find something for themselves. The views in good weather are spectacular and it is worth climbing there. I would recommend.
December 12, 2019
A slightly smaller mountain Corn Du the views from the to are amazing it's one of the 4 largest mountains in the Becons
January 14, 2020
First proper view point you will reach when you climb from the Storey Arms car park.
Nice spot to stop for a quick break and great views. Choose to go left towards Corn Du and Pen y Fan or turn right and take the longer circular route reaching fan y big first, followed by Cribyn, Pen Y Fan and then lastly Corn Du.November 19, 2019
Amazing view across the landscape its really cold up there at this time of year so wear appropriate clothing.
January 12, 2020
High elevation trail, good fitness required.
Amazing reward at the top on clear dayJuly 26, 2021
Great side hill to do when you do Pen y Fan. Stunning views and a great rest stop.
April 23, 2022
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