Today we're showing you the best routes and areas to enjoy snowshoeing in Guadarrama properly. We recommend planning ahead - make sure your group gets an early start, arrange equipment rental in advance or have everything prepared the day before to avoid last-minute issues. This includes gear, backpacks, food, and checking the weather. If you own snowshoes, you might find this article about their care and maintenance useful. It never hurts to be informed! ¡Let's begin!
1. Camino Schmidt - An Absolute Classic!
This trail, well-known among hikers in warmer seasons, is one of the most popular and frequently used routes in the entire Sierra de Guadarrama. Starting from Puerto de Navacerrada, you can choose to go via Camino Schmidt and return via 7 Picos (Seven Peaks) or vice versa. If planning the excursion with children, we recommend the first option.
2. Peñalara Summit and Lakes from Puerto de Cotos - The Highest Point!
Leaving your car at the Puerto de Cotos car park (turning right at P. Navacerrada if coming from Madrid or left if ascending from La Granja de San Ildefonso), this fantastic route begins towards the Peñalara lakes or, for the more adventurous, up to the summit of the highest mountain in the Madrid region at 2,428 metres above sea level.
An absolutely spectacular journey through one of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire range - the glacial cirque of Peñalara. The route takes approximately two hours.
3. Bola del Mundo from Puerto de Navacerrada
You've surely heard of the Bola del Mundo - that famous mountain with transmission antennas at its summit. Yes, the one facing Puerto de Navacerrada. Reaching its peak is another of the most well-known routes in Sierra de Guadarrama. You can either approach from Puerto de Cotos or ascend directly from Puerto de Navacerrada.
Also known as Alto de las Guarramillas, this is a short but demanding route requiring a reasonable level of fitness. Oh, and the views from here will leave you speechless.
4. Pico del Nevero from Navafría - Between Madrid and Segovia!
This route begins at 1,700 metres altitude from Puerto de Navafría (the border between Madrid and Segovia, reachable via Lozoya). The ascent to Pico del Nevero follows the PR 32 trail - short but challenging.
Passing the Mirador del Guarda viewpoint, you'll climb to Pico del Nevero (2,209 m) before returning alongside the Nordic ski track, offering spectacular views of the entire Lozoya Valley and Somosierra.
5. La Maliciosa - Not as Treacherous as It Sounds!
Who hasn't heard of La Maliciosa? It's one of the most spectacular mountains in the entire range. Routes begin from La Barranca (Navacerrada) or Bola del Mundo, though the most famous approach has always been from Becerril.
This is a difficult route with potential for blizzards and strong winds, not to mention the low temperatures. In short, go well prepared and descend quickly after reaching the summit.
Now that you know some of the best routes in Sierra de Guadarrama, tell us about your experiences - routes you've done yourself or anything else you'd like to share.
