Valles Occidentales NP hike - Cueva Helada de Lecherines
1 / 3
Cueva Helada de Lecherines - by Arnaud Loyce on Alltrails
Description
The Valles Occidentales National Park covers the western part of the Aragonese Pyrenees. It bears the geological marks of glaciers action and its climate is subject to Atlantic influence with forests of fir trees, beech, black pine and yew. It spans the headwaters of the rivers Veral, Aragon Subordán, Osia, Estarrún and Lubierre. One of the most popular hikes is a 16km out-and-back from the town of Canfranc up to the Cueva Helada de los Lecherines - a rocky and icy cave (it's in the name). It is not extremely long but the cumulative ascent of ~1,100m to just over 2,000m above sea level means an intermediate fitness level is required. Likewise, without being too technical, we would not recommend novices to tackle this without a more experimented lead hiker.
Access & Transport
Departure is from Canfran, at the southern entrance of the village which is 18km north of Jaca and less than 15mins from the French border.
Instructions & Recommendations
We marked this hike as being best done from May onward as there is likely to be snow along the way up to that date so you may want to select your footwear accordingly - we would suggest mid-height hiking shoes although solid trail shoes (not race flats) will do the trick for the light footed. Do not forget to bring plenty of water, sun protection and a snack. If you have an extra 25mins, or coming from France, you should make a stop at the old train station, 5km north of the village. Breathtakingly long.
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity. Socially neutral
Conclusion
An excellent day out in an attractive natural environment and superb views of some of the surrounding granite peaks.
Key positive
Enjoyable mountain scenery
The trailhead is easy to reach for those already in Huesca Province
Key negative
Not always clearly marked
Suitability
Intermediate fitness required and some hiking experience preferred - best for children > 12yrs old
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:6h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo