Loja, Granada
Trail Loja - Abades Stone Race
Sunday, 18 April 2027estimated date
Trail Loja - Abades Stone Race 2027: estimated date 18 April 2027
The organiser has not published the official 2027 schedule yet. The estimated date is based on last year's edition; we'll confirm it as soon as it's announced. Start sorting your gear and logistics.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Race | 34.92 km | D+ 4038m | - | 26 EUR |
| Mini Stone Race | 11.95 km | D+ 1232m | - | 22 EUR |
Gear up for Trail Loja - Abades Stone Race
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
What you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
How long will it take you?
Estimate your race time based on distance, elevation and your runner level.
Historical weather
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
10°C – 23°C
Average 16°C
Rain
27%
1.3 mm avg
Wind
14 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
11h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Sun protection essential (11h sunshine, up to 23°C)
Forecast for 18 April
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Trail Loja - Abades Stone Race
Trail Loja, officially known as the Abades Stone Race, is a mountain trail race celebrating its 12th edition in 2026. Organised by Mala Cara Club Running in collaboration with the Loja Town Council, it winds through the stunning karst landscapes surrounding Loja, in the Poniente Granadino area of Granada province.
The event offers two distances: the Stone Race (34.92 km with 4,038 m elevation gain) and the Mini Stone Race (11.95 km with 1,232 m D+). Both courses are certified by the Andalusian Mountaineering Federation.
The Course
The Stone Race is an extremely demanding event: 4,038 metres of elevation gain packed into just 35 km makes for a brutal climb-to-distance ratio. Runners will face mountainous terrain featuring:
- Karst landscape — Distinctive rock formations characteristic of the Loja area
- Sierra de Loja — Technical trails through the mountain range overlooking the town
- Poniente Granadino — Views over the Genil valley and surrounding mountain ranges
The start and finish are at the Parque Fluvial Paseo del Genil, a natural enclave alongside the river as it passes through Loja.
Mini Stone Race
For those seeking a more accessible distance, the Mini Stone Race offers 11.95 km with 1,232 m of elevation gain. A short but intense race, ideal for getting into mountain trail running or as a quality training session.
Loja, Gateway to the Poniente Granadino
Loja is a historic town in a privileged location between Granada and Málaga, at the junction of the A-92 motorway. Known as the “City of Water” for its numerous springs, it offers an exceptional natural setting for trail running. The Parque Fluvial del Genil, the start and finish point, is a perfect example of the area’s water wealth. Plan your nutrition strategy to tackle the 4,000+ metres of elevation gain with sustained energy.
360Complete Pack
Trail Loja 2026 Registration
RegistrationRegistration is through Cruzando la Meta. Two distances available: Stone Race (35 km) and Mini Stone Race (12 km). Registration closes April 10, 2026.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Online registration via Cruzando la Meta
- •Deadline: April 10, 2026
- •Price: 22-26 EUR depending on distance
- •Both courses are certified by the Andalusian Mountaineering Federation
Where to Stay in Loja
AccommodationLoja is a well-connected town at the junction of the A-92 with good accommodation options. Nearby towns in the Poniente Granadino area also offer alternatives.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Loja town centre is the best option, close to the start at Parque Fluvial
- •Budget alternatives in nearby towns like Huétor Tájar or Villanueva de Mesía
- •Book in advance if you want accommodation near the start
Gear for Trail Loja
GearA very demanding mountain race on karst terrain with 4,038 m of elevation gain in just 35 km. The terrain is technical and rocky with steep climbs and descents.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
Altra
Altra Lone Peak 9
Trail running shoe with zero drop and wide FootShape toe box that allows natural toe splay. 25 mm stack with EGO foam for balanced cushioning without losing ground contact. MaxTrac outsole with 3.5 mm lugs, ideal for non-technical trails, forest tracks and long-distance paths.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
The model breaking into Spain's best-seller charts. Fresh Foam X midsole with a solid balance between cushioning and ground feel, a Vibram Megagrip outsole, and a comfortable last suited to wide feet. A reliable all-rounder for training runs and mountain races of any distance.
Saucony
Saucony Peregrine 16
The all-round trail shoe par excellence, with excellent reviews across every type of runner. PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip on mixed and technical terrain, balanced PWRRUN cushioning, and rock-plate protection depending on the version. The perfect middle ground between responsiveness and protection.
Freet
Freet Feldom 3
100% barefoot trail shoe with zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm sole) and anatomical last that respects the natural width of the foot. No midsole cushioning: maximum proprioception and ground feedback. Multi-directional lugs for dirt trails and paths. Designed for runners already adapted to minimalist footwear or those transitioning gradually from cushioned natural footwear.
Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 965
Premium running watch with a 1.4" AMOLED display, onboard topo maps, multi-band GPS and music. Up to 31 h in GPS mode (19 h multi-band) and 23 days in smartwatch mode, at just 53 g. Garmin's top running watch without the bulk of a Fenix: ideal for marathons and single-day ultras with accurate navigation.
Tips
- •Shoes with excellent grip for rocky, technical terrain
- •Poles highly recommended given the massive elevation gain
- •Hydration pack with at least 1.5L capacity
- •Breathable technical clothing for April in southern Spain
Which shoes for Trail Loja - Abades Stone Race?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Trail Loja - Abades Stone Race?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
The best trail running poles in 2026, compared on technical criteria: Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z, Leki Ultratrail FX.One, Komperdell Carbon FXP Trail and Cascade Mountain Tech. Weight, folded length, aluminium vs carbon, technique and how to pick your size.
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
In-depth comparison of the best hydration vests and packs for trail running in 2026: Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set, Salomon Active Skin 8, CamelBak Octane, Compressport UltRun Vest, NNormal Race Vest, AONIJIE 10L and HANKER waist belt. Soft flasks vs reservoir, how many litres by distance, how to stop the vest bouncing and how much water to carry.
Best Value Trail and Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
The best value-for-money trail and mountain GPS watches in 2026: Coros Pace 3, Amazfit T-Rex 3 and Cheetah Pro, Garmin Forerunner 165 and Suunto Race 2. How much a good trail watch costs, which ones have cheap offline maps, whether an Amazfit performs like a Garmin and which watch to buy for your budget. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
Nutrition for Trail Loja
NutritionThe organisation provides aid stations at strategic points along the course. However, carrying your own supplies is recommended given the demanding nature of the race.
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
Natural guava bar in individual 26 g format. High in vitamin C and fast-absorbing carbohydrates. Solid texture with easy-open wrapper, perfect for carrying during races. Intense sweet flavor that delivers immediate energy without needing water.
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
Gel de hidrogel con 25g de carbohidratos. La tecnología de hidrogel encapsula los carbohidratos para una absorción sin molestias gástricas. Sabor neutro, sin edulcorantes artificiales. Usado por corredores de élite en maratón y ultra.
Crown Sport Nutrition
Crown Sport Nutrition 3:1 Recovery+
Recuperador muscular a base de proteína de suero aislada (whey isolate) con ratio carbohidratos-proteína 3:1, enriquecido con L-Leucina y L-Glutamina. Certificado Informed Sport y sin alérgenos añadidos. Formato de 750 g, sabor sandía.
GU
GU Energy Gel Original
Gel energético con 100 calorías y 21g de carbohidratos por sobre. Mezcla de maltodextrina y fructosa para absorción óptima. Incluye aminoácidos y electrolitos. El gel más usado en ultratrails de todo el mundo.
226ERS
226ERS Isotonic Drink
Bebida isotónica en polvo de la marca española 226ERS. Aporta carbohidratos, electrolitos y minerales para mantener la hidratación durante el ejercicio. Fórmula con amilopectina para absorción rápida sin molestias digestivas.
Victory Endurance
Victory Endurance Total Recovery
Preparado en polvo para bebida de recuperación post-entreno con carbohidratos, electrolitos y proteína en ratio BCAA 2:1:1. Incluye 12 vitaminas y 9 minerales para acelerar la recuperación muscular tras un trail largo. Formato de 1250 g, sabor sandía.
226ERS
226ERS Recovery Drink
Muscle recovery shake from Spanish brand 226ERS. Formula with whey protein, amylopectin, amino acids (including glutamine and BCAAs) and minerals. Carb-to-protein ratio optimised for the post-exercise window. Good taste and digestive tolerance.
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Pro Salts Electrolytes
The caffeinated version of Sub9 Salts: 250 mg of sodium and 40 mg of caffeine per capsule, plus potassium, magnesium and ginger. Made for the final stretch of an ultra, when you need to replace salts and get a lift without opening another caffeine gel.
Tips
- •Aid stations at strategic points along the course
- •Carry extra solid food for the longer climbs
- •Stay hydrated — April can be warm in Granada
- •Plan around 500 kcal/hour for the Stone Race
Getting to Loja
TransportLoja is strategically located on the A-92 motorway between Granada and Málaga, with excellent road access.
Browse all transportTips
- •Granada city centre: 55 min via A-92
- •Málaga city centre: 1h 15min via A-92
- •Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX): 50 min
- •Málaga Airport (AGP): 1h 15min
Car Rental from Granada or Málaga
Car RentalA rental car from Granada or Málaga is the most convenient option to reach Loja.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
SUV/crossover vehicle rental subscription, ideal for reaching mountain races via rural roads and forest tracks.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Urban vehicle rental subscription, perfect for getting to races with good highway and conventional road access.
Carla
Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después
Car rental comparison in over 180 countries with free cancellation. Book now and pay when you pick up the vehicle, no hidden fees or upfront card charges.
Hertz
Hertz - Alquiler de coches
Car rental with one of the world's most recognised brands, with offices at airports and cities across Spain.
Tips
- •The A-92 is a dual carriageway all the way from both Granada and Málaga
- •Useful for exploring the Poniente Granadino area after the race
Sports Insurance for Trail Loja
InsuranceCover your participation with sports insurance that includes mountain rescue and medical assistance.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Liability insurance recommended
- •The organisation provides medical assistance during the race
Sun Protection for Trail Loja
Sun ProtectionAn April race through Mediterranean mountain terrain with exposed sections. Midday temperatures can be warm in southern Granada.
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Lip balm with SPF 30 sun protection in stick format. Moisturises and protects lips from sunburn, a spot many runners forget. Coconut flavour, paraben-free.
Cantabria Labs
Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+
Transparent SPF 50+ sun stick, 25 g, with 360º protection (UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared). Goes on dry in seconds over face, ears, neck and bald scalp with no sticky hands and no white cast: the format built for reapplying at an aid station. High water and sweat resistance, from a Spanish pharmacy brand.
Columbia
Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot
Legionnaire-style cap with neck flap, ideal for long-duration races with intense sun exposure. Covers the neck and ears, two of the areas most prone to sunburn in the mountains.
Julbo
Julbo Aero
Sports sunglasses with a Reactiv photochromic lens that automatically adapts to changing light, an ultralight panoramic frame and the Air Link temple system for a secure, pressure-free fit. Built for high-mountain trail running, where light shifts constantly between forest, rock and open summits.
Buff
Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel
Lightweight 5-panel cap with UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric and comfortable fit. Ideal for summer trail running races where weight and ventilation are a priority.
d'Alba
d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++
Facial SPF 50+ PA++++ sun stick, 19 g, Korean skincare, vegan and fragrance-free. Dry, powdery finish, not sticky, doesn't sting the eyes when you sweat: comfortable for daily training and shorter races. The lightest and cheapest option in the comparison.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Mountain sunscreen with SPF 50+ formulated for extreme altitude conditions. Extra protection against intensified UV radiation and cold wind. Rich texture that protects skin from dehydration.
Tips
- •April in Granada can exceed 25°C during midday hours
- •Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
- •Protect lips and nose — the most exposed areas
Body Care for Trail Loja
Body CareA race with massive elevation gain on technical terrain. Protect your skin from sun and chafing during the race hours.
Julbo
Julbo Aerospeed
Sport sunglasses with Reactiv photochromic lenses that automatically adapt to light conditions (category 1 to 3). Designed for trail running with non-slip temples and integrated ventilation.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Multifunctional tubular with UPF 50+ UV protection and cooling technology. Can be worn as neck gaiter, headband, balaclava or wristband. CoolNet fabric reflects UV rays and cools the skin by evaporation.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Visor
Ultralight trail running visor with absorbent sweatband and breathable fabric. The visor shields the face from the sun without trapping heat like a closed cap, ideal for summer races.
OOFOS
OOFOS OOriginal Sport
Unisex recovery sandal with patented OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than conventional EVA foam and reduces stress on feet, ankles and back after exertion. Closed thong-style toe post with built-in arch support in the footbed. Machine washable.
Therabody
Theragun Mini (2.ª generación)
Compact massage gun with QuietForce motor and 3 speeds (1750-2400 percussions/min). Weighs just 500g and fits in your race vest or bag. Ideal for self-massage of quads, calves and glutes after a trail.
Compex
Compex Ayre Recovery Boots
Pneumatic pressotherapy boots with 4 sequential air chambers. Dynamic compression that improves venous return and speeds up toxin elimination after mountain races. 3 pressure levels and 20-30 minute sessions. Built-in rechargeable battery.
Salomon
Salomon Mangas Running
Lightweight, breathable and absorbent running sleeves from Salomon, with a comfortable adaptable fit for variable mountain temperature conditions.
Salomon
Salomon Polaina Cuello Merino
Salomon merino wool neck gaiter. Natural warmth, breathable and odour-resistant even after several uses without washing, key for multi-day ultras. Versatile use in the mountains and premium trail running.
Tips
- •Breathable visor for the hottest hours
- •UV-protection buff for neck and ears
- •Sunglasses for exposed sections
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Best Recovery Gear for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
Compare the best recovery products for trail running in 2026: TriggerPoint GRID, Theragun Mini, Compressport Full Socks Recovery, and Compex Ayre Recovery Boots. Foam rolling, percussion, compression, and pressotherapy.
Best Recovery Sandals for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
Compare the best recovery sandals for trail running in 2026: OOFOS OOriginal Sport, HOKA Ora Recovery Slide 3, Crocs Mellow Recovery Slide, and Skechers GOrecover Refresh. What to put on your feet after the race.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Trail Loja 2026?
- The 12th edition of the Abades Stone Race takes place on April 19, 2026, starting at 09:00 from Parque Fluvial Paseo del Genil in Loja.
- What distances are available?
- There are two distances: the Stone Race (34.92 km with 4,038 m D+) and the Mini Stone Race (11.95 km with 1,232 m D+).
- How much does registration cost?
- Registration costs between 22 and 26 EUR depending on the distance. The registration deadline is April 10, 2026.
- Where is the start and finish?
- The start and finish are at Parque Fluvial Paseo del Genil, in Loja (Granada).
- How do you get to Loja?
- Loja is on the A-92 motorway between Granada (55 min) and Málaga (1h 15min). The nearest airports are Granada-Jaén (GRX) and Málaga (AGP).
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