The Horseshoe Ridge Trail is an amazing hike taking in the four highest peaks in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) – Corn Du (873m), Pen-y-Fan (886m), Cribyn (795m) and Fan-y-Big (719m). You start in the Taf Fechan car park (grid ref SO038169) and as you follow the trail you are treated to stunning views of the peaks you are about to summit. In early December 2023, the temperature in the mountains had dropped to below zero and there was a thick frost covering much of the shaded countryside. Some of the paths were covered in thick ice, making the route treacherous in places. The peaks of Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan and Cribyn moved in and out of low cloud, which proved frustrating to all those walking the trail. On this trip I didn’t climb Fan-y-Big due to the failing light and covered the 8.6 mile trek in 3 1/2 hours, ascending 2000 foot (610m).
Related blog: Horseshoe Ridge Trail Guide. To discuss a photography assignment or to purchase a high resolution copy of any of the photographs, please contact Paul on paul@paulfearsphoto.co.uk
