Taff Trail walk part 2 - Merthyr to Pontypridd
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Join Outdoor Lads for a fantastic Saturday walk from Merthyr along the Taff Trail to Pontypridd .
The walk will start at Merthyr Railway Station and finish in the town Centre of Pontypirdd.
This walk is designed for those without a car and the start and finish is a railway station with plentiful access from other areas. There's also parking at both stations if anyone is driving.
We will meet on the platform at Merthyr Railway Station at 11.00am and finish around 3:30/4pm depending on our speed in Pontypridd Town Centre. We will stop for lunch on the route. Please note the new start time of 11am
The railway station is around an hour north of Cardiff and there are two trains per hour trains throughout the monring. A day singe costs £5.40 and return costs £8.70. There are then frequent trains (6 per hour) from Pontypridd back to Cardiff
The route is around 13miles/20km the first and last bits are in an urban area and the bulk of the rest of the walk is on a purpose built path/track although mud will almost be guaranteed.
For more info on the route see here (our route will take a slightly shorter route)
There is a second part to this route (Pontypridd to Cardiff) in March. There is no obligation to do both parts.
Your First OutdoorLads Walk Event?
We know that new members in particular like to know in advance more about what an OutdoorLads event will be like.
If this is your first OutdoorLads event, you should check out the information designed specifically for you on the My First Event page on the OutdoorLads website.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
All photos are from Visit Wales/The leaders own work and are free to use for the purpose of this event.
What to bring
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking, with more being taken if cooking is required. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety, with hot food being able to be eaten raw if necessary.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch and snacks.
Please bring plenty of water, ideally 1.5 to 2L.
There will be an opportunity for post walk drinks in the city centre once the walk is over should people wish.