Fuenfría Valley and Marichiva Pass MTB Loop

This is a difficult mountain bike route, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills. You should be prepared for technical challenges, potentially corresponding to STS S3 - S6, and there might be portions where you need to push your bike.

The route is approximately 42.6 km long and typically takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes to complete on a mountain bike, depending on your pace and stops.

You'll experience diverse terrain, including granite massifs, immense forests of pines, oaks, and holm oaks, high-mountain meadows, and rocky areas. Lower elevations feature scrubland with species like rockrose, lavender, and thyme. The park's well-maintained network of forest tracks makes up much of the route.

Along the route, you'll encounter several notable spots. These include the scenic Poets' Viewpoint and Queen's Viewpoint, offering stunning vistas. You'll also pass through the Fuenfría Pass and Marichiva Pass.

The route starts and ends at Alto del León. There is parking available in the vicinity of Alto del León, which serves as a common starting point for trails in this area of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Parque Nacional de Guadarrama, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

The best time to mountain bike this route is typically during spring and autumn when temperatures are milder and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can be very hot, especially at lower elevations, and winter can bring snow and ice, making the trail significantly more challenging or impassable in parts.

Generally, there is no entrance fee to access the Parque Nacional de Guadarrama. For most recreational activities like mountain biking on established trails, specific permits are not required. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park regulations on the Visit Madrid website or the park's official site for any updates on regulations, especially concerning protected areas or specific activities.

The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park is rich in wildlife. You might spot deer, wild boars, and foxes. Birdwatchers could be lucky enough to see impressive species like the imperial eagle and black vulture, among many others.

Yes, this route covers sections of several other trails. Notably, it includes parts of the Valle de la Fuenfría, De Valencia a Lisboa (Etapa desde Navacerrada al Puerto de la Fuenfría), Senda Pico de Majalasna, and Camino de Campamentos. You'll also briefly cross the Calzada romana de la Fuenfría, adding a touch of historical significance to your ride.

Alto del León is a well-known pass and a common starting point for outdoor activities. You can typically find some services, including cafes or restaurants, in the immediate vicinity or in nearby towns like Guadarrama or Cercedilla, which are popular hubs for visitors to the national park.