Date, registration & deadlines
Jul 11, 2026 · Registration open
Local guides
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | ITRA | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra 100K | 100 km | D+ 6200m | 6 pts | 30h | 120 EUR |
| Marathon 42K | 42 km | D+ 2800m | 3 pts | 14h | 75 EUR |
| Trail 21K | 21 km | D+ 1200m | 1 pts | 7h | 45 EUR |
What you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
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
13°C – 25°C
Average 19°C
Rain
7%
0.3 mm avg
Wind
15 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
13h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Sun protection essential (13h sunshine, up to 25°C)
Forecast for July 11
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Ultra Sierra Nevada
Ultra Sierra Nevada is a 100K race with 6,200m D+ through Sierra Nevada National Park, the highest mountain range in mainland Spain, with passes above 3,000m. Three distances available: 100K, 42K and 21K. Held in July from Pradollano (Granada).
Ultra Sierra Nevada is one of the most spectacular trail running events on the Iberian Peninsula. It runs through the heart of Sierra Nevada National Park, the highest mountain range in mainland Spain, with views of Mulhacen (3,479m) and Veleta (3,398m).
The Course
The Ultra 100K course has 6,200 meters of positive elevation gain. It starts from Pradollano (2,100m) and traverses the highest peaks of Sierra Nevada in a loop.
The flagship 100-kilometer race follows a circular route from Pradollano across the most iconic summits of Sierra Nevada. Runners will pass through:
- El Veleta (3,398m) - The second highest peak in Sierra Nevada
- Sierra Nevada Lakes - Glacial lakes of Quaternary origin
- Historic trails - Ancient paths used by shepherds and muleteers
- Oak and pine forests - Along the lower elevations of the course
Distances and Prices
Ultra Sierra Nevada offers three distances: Ultra 100K (120 EUR, 6 ITRA points), Marathon 42K (75 EUR, 3 ITRA points) and Trail 21K (45 EUR, 1 ITRA point).
In addition to the Ultra 100K, the race offers a Mountain Marathon (42K) with 2,800m of elevation gain, ideal for runners with trail experience, and a Trail 21K with 1,200m D+ perfect for getting started in high-mountain racing.
The Altitude Challenge
Running above 3,000m reduces performance by 10-15%. It is recommended to arrive in Granada 2-3 days beforehand for minimal acclimatization. Warm clothing is essential even in July.
Altitude reduces the partial pressure of oxygen, which noticeably affects performance. It is recommended to arrive in Granada at least two days early to begin minimal acclimatization. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 0 degrees even in July above 3,000 meters. Use our time estimator to factor in the altitude penalty when setting your target finish time.
How to Get to Sierra Nevada
Granada Airport (GRX) is 40 minutes from Pradollano. The high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Granada takes 3h 10min. You can drive via the A-395 from Granada city in 30 minutes.
Granada has good air connections with major Spanish cities and some European destinations. The Pradollano ski resort, the race start point, is well served by regular bus services in summer.
Review the mandatory gear guide before packing for the high altitude, and check our nutrition calculator to plan your fueling strategy. Discover more races in Andalusia.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
360 Complete Pack
Ultra Sierra Nevada 2026 Registration
InscripciónRegistration opens in March and spots typically sell out within a few weeks. Three distances available.
Browse all inscripciónTips
- • Spots fill up fast, sign up as soon as registration opens
- • A waiting list is available on the official website
- • A medical certificate is required for the Ultra 100K
Where to Stay in Sierra Nevada
AlojamientoThe best accommodation options near the race start and finish line.
Browse all alojamientoTips
- • Book well in advance, July is peak season in Granada
- • Pradollano has the closest hotels to the start line
- • Granada city is more affordable and only a 30-min drive
Recommended Gear for Sierra Nevada
MaterialEssential equipment for tackling Ultra Sierra Nevada. High-mountain terrain with stretches above 3,000m.
Browse all materialTips
- • Shoes with good grip are a must for rocky and snowy sections
- • A windbreaker and gloves are essential, nights are cold at 3,000m
- • Poles are recommended for the Ultra 100K
- • Headlamp with a spare battery for the night sections
Nutrition Plan for Ultra Sierra Nevada
NutriciónNutrition strategy for a high-altitude race with major elevation gain.
Browse all nutriciónTips
- • Extra hydration is needed due to altitude and the July heat
- • Aid stations every 10-15km with solid food and liquids
- • Carry extra gels, altitude increases energy expenditure
How to Get to Sierra Nevada
TransporteGranada has good connections by air, rail and road.
Browse all transporteTips
- • Granada Airport (GRX) is 40 min from Sierra Nevada
- • High-speed train from Madrid to Granada in 3h 10min
- • Regular buses from Granada to Pradollano in summer
Car Rental in Granada
Alquiler de vehículoA rental car gives you the freedom to get around Sierra Nevada and explore the area.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
Suscripción de alquiler de vehículos tipo SUV/crossover, ideal para llegar a carreras de montaña por carreteras rurales y pistas forestales.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Suscripción de alquiler de vehículos urbanos, perfecta para desplazarte a carreras con buenos accesos por autovía y carretera convencional.
Tips
- • Mountain roads are in good condition but winding
Sports Insurance for Ultra Sierra Nevada
SeguroRun with peace of mind with insurance that covers mountain rescue and medical assistance.
Browse all seguroTips
- • The organization requires liability insurance
- • Insurance with mountain rescue coverage is recommended
- • If you are traveling from abroad, include travel insurance
Sun protection for Ultra Sierra Nevada
Protección solarAt altitudes above 3,000m, UV radiation is up to 40% more intense than at sea level. Combined with July summer sun and long hours on exposed ridges, sun protection is absolutely critical for this race.
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Protector solar facial ultraligero de fase acuosa con SPF 50+. Textura fluida que se absorbe al instante sin dejar residuo graso, ideal para aplicar durante la carrera. Resistente al agua y al sudor.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Bálsamo labial con protección solar SPF 30 en formato stick. Hidrata y protege los labios de quemaduras solares, un punto que muchos corredores olvidan. Sabor a coco, sin parabenos.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Crema solar de montaña con SPF 50+ formulada para condiciones extremas de altitud. Protección extra contra la radiación UV intensificada y el viento frío. Textura rica que protege la piel de la deshidratación.
Tips
- • Reapply every 2 hours, even on cloudy days
- • At 3,000m+ altitude UV intensity increases dramatically — use SPF 50 minimum
- • Protect lips and ears, which burn quickly at high altitude
- • Snow patches on the highest sections reflect UV and increase exposure
Body care for Ultra Sierra Nevada
Cuidado corporalA 100K race in July above 3,000m demands serious body protection. Long hours of exposure to intense high-altitude sun and reflected UV from snow patches require quality eyewear, UV-blocking headwear, and arm coverage.
Julbo
Julbo Aerospeed
Gafas de sol deportivas con lentes fotocromáticas Reactiv que se adaptan automáticamente a las condiciones de luz (categoría 1 a 3). Diseñadas para trail running con patillas antideslizantes y ventilación integrada.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Tubular multifunción con protección UV UPF 50+ y tecnología de refrigeración. Se puede usar como cuello, cinta de cabeza, balaclava o muñequera. El tejido CoolNet refleja los rayos UV y enfría la piel por evaporación.
Compressport
Compressport ArmForce Ultralight
Manguitos de compresión ultraligeros con protección UV UPF 40+. Protegen los brazos del sol, arañazos de vegetación y frío en cumbres. Se pueden poner y quitar fácilmente sin parar.
Tips
- • Category 4 sunglasses are essential for the snow sections above 3,000m
- • A UV-protective buff keeps neck and face covered on exposed ridges
- • Arm sleeves protect against sunburn during the long daylight hours
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Ultra Sierra Nevada 2026?
- Ultra Sierra Nevada 2026 takes place on July 11. Registration opens in March and spots typically sell out within a few weeks.
- What distances does Ultra Sierra Nevada offer?
- There are three distances: Ultra 100K (6,200m D+), Marathon 42K (2,800m D+) and Trail 21K (1,200m D+).
- Is a medical certificate required to participate?
- Yes, a valid medical certificate is required for the Ultra 100K. For shorter distances, check the official regulations.
- How much does it cost to enter Ultra Sierra Nevada?
- Entry fees are 120 EUR for the Ultra 100K, 75 EUR for the Marathon 42K and 45 EUR for the Trail 21K.
- How do you get to Sierra Nevada from Granada?
- Sierra Nevada is a 40-minute drive from Granada. There are also regular bus services during the summer season from Granada's bus station.
- How difficult is the race?
- The race is rated advanced difficulty. The course exceeds 3,000m altitude with technical stretches of rocky terrain and possible snow at the highest elevations.
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