Cuerda Larga Trail to La Maliciosa

This route is considered difficult for jogging. It requires very good physical fitness, firm footing, appropriate footwear, and experience in high-mountain environments. The ascent from Puerto de Navacerrada to Bola del Mundo is particularly demanding, with an average gradient of 12%.

The trail starts with wide tracks and open areas from Puerto de Navacerrada. As you gain altitude, the terrain becomes more mountainous and stony, especially towards La Maliciosa. You'll encounter steep, loose, and potentially heavily vegetated sections, with characteristic granite soil. The path is a mix of mountain hiking paths, footpaths, natural paths, and some paved or alpine tracks. The final stretch to Bola del Mundo often follows a service track.

This route offers the opportunity to summit two iconic peaks: Alto de las Guarramillas (Bola del Mundo), recognizable by its radio antennas, and La Maliciosa Summit, known for its striking beauty. You'll also pass by the Statue of the Virgen de las Nieves.

The trail starts directly from Puerto de Navacerrada. Parking is generally available in the area, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.

While the Sierra de Guadarrama generally allows dogs, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to respect other users. Given the challenging terrain and potential for ice or snow in winter, ensure your dog is fit for a difficult mountain run.

The best time to jog this route is typically during late spring, summer, and early autumn when conditions are most favorable. In winter, parts of the route can have ice or hard snow, making it significantly more challenging and requiring specialized gear and experience.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access this trail in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park.

The trail boasts spectacular panoramic views of the Guadarrama mountain range and its valleys. On clear days, you can even see the Madrid skyline in the distance. You'll pass through diverse ecosystems, including pine forests, alpine meadows, and areas with wild pines, ferns, broom, and gorse.

Yes, the route overlaps with sections of several official trails. Notably, it covers a significant portion of the Cuerda Larga (66%) and also intersects with parts of the [CIMA MA05] Bola del Mundo (Navacerrada) * Collado Villalba (58%) and [CIMA MA05] Bola del Mundo (Navacerrada) * Guadarrama (58%) trails.

Given the difficult nature and exposed sections, you should pack appropriate trail running shoes with good grip, layers of clothing suitable for changing mountain weather, water, snacks, a map or GPS device, and sun protection. In winter, consider microspikes or crampons and an ice axe if snow and ice are present.

Yes, Puerto de Navacerrada is accessible by public transport, typically bus services from nearby towns like Cercedilla or Madrid, which can be a convenient option to reach the trailhead without needing to drive.