The best traffic-free bike rides in Pilancones

There are a few dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Pilancones, offering challenging rides through the park's unique landscapes. Currently, this guide features 3 such routes, all rated as difficult, providing a rewarding experience for experienced riders.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Pilancones feature a diverse and ancient volcanic landscape. You'll encounter a mix of dirt roads, stone roads, and technical sections. The park's topography includes dramatic ravines and significant elevation changes, offering both challenging ascents and exhilarating descents. Some sections might be quite rough and unpaved.

Yes, Pilancones offers stunning panoramic views. You can find several viewpoints along or near the trails, such as the Degollada de la Cruz Grande Viewpoint, which provides expansive vistas. Other notable spots include the View of the valley in the nature reserve and the View of Maspalomas.

Pilancones is rich in natural beauty. You'll ride through well-preserved pine forests, encounter unique vegetation like Tabaibal-Cardonal, isolated dragon trees, and various species of cactus and spurge. The park also features dams and reservoirs, such as those in Ayagaures, and natural pools called 'pilancones' formed by water runoff. Keep an eye out for the significant Pino de Pilancones.

Yes, there are circular routes designed for gravel biking without traffic. For example, the challenging View of the Canyon – Road Through the Gorge loop from Bar El Paso is a long circular route that allows you to experience the park's dramatic landscapes.

The best time for gravel biking in Pilancones is generally during the cooler, drier months, typically from autumn through spring (October to May). Summers can be very hot, making long rides more challenging. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, the park's name 'pilancones' refers to natural pools formed by water runoff. You might also encounter dams and reservoirs, particularly in areas like Ayagaures. There is a Small Reservoir with Waterfall listed as a highlight, offering a scenic stop.

The komoot community highly rates the experiences in Pilancones, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging and diverse terrain, the stunning panoramic views, and the sense of immersion in nature due to the lack of traffic. The dramatic 'Grand Canyon' like landscapes and unique volcanic formations are frequently highlighted.

The longest no-traffic gravel bike trail in this guide is the View of the Canyon – Road Through the Gorge loop from Bar El Paso, which spans nearly 60 kilometers and involves significant elevation gain, making it a demanding full-day adventure.

Beyond the longest route, you can also explore the 'Road Through the Gorge' on other challenging no-traffic gravel bike trails. Consider the Road Through the Gorge – Unpaved Section of GC-604 loop from Lomo de Pedro Afonso or the Road Through the Gorge – Unpaved Section of GC-604 loop from Presa de Chira for a slightly shorter but equally demanding experience.

Pilancones Natural Park is a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA), so it's an excellent spot for birdwatching. You might see species like the blue finch, great spotted woodpecker, and trumpeter bullfinch, especially in the pine forests. The water features also attract various water bird species.