Picos de Europa - The Cares Trail hike
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Picos de Europa, Cares Trail - by Rick L on Alltrails





Description
The Cares Trail (Ruta del Cares) is a 21km out-and-back hiking path within the Picos de Europa mountain range, crossing between the provinces of León and Asturias. It has a cumulative ascent of about 450m and a well-marked non-technical trail (but sometimes narrow) that is sometimes carved through the rock-face and crosses bridges over the canyon formed by the Cares river. Expect to see some chamois or mountain goats.
Access & Transport
The trail connects the Asturian village of Puente Poncebos to Caín de Valdeón in León. Poncebos is 105km from Santander via the A-8/A-67/AS-114 until Las Arenas and then the AS-264. From Oviedo, it is 125km. Due to the elevated frequentation in the summer, parking is in Las Arenas with bus shuttles taking hikers to the trailhead. You could also do this trek from the León province side; Caín de Valdeón is 130km northwest of the city of León.
Instructions & Recommendations
This is a long hike so make sure to bring enough water and food + sun protection (cap, sunglasses, sunblock)
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity. Marginally positive for the community as it brings some revenues to the villages in the area
Conclusion
One of the best trails for casual hikers in the Asturias region with a few rather impressive sections. That being said, if you are after high mountain views or planning to do this route in July or August then you may want to consider other options in the Picos de Europa national park
Key positive
Some spectacular canyon scenery
Very well marked and easy trail
Company of mountain goats
Key negative
Can be busy
May be too flat for experienced hikers
Suitability
A decent fitness level is required but not necessarily hiking experience. Would not recommend with younger kids due to the distance
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:7h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo