Photo: Petr Slováček (opens in a new tab) / Source (opens in a new tab)Granada
Ultra Sierra Nevada
Saturday, 3 April 2027
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Advanced
Distance
3 modalities
Ultra 100K
Price: 120 EUR
- Distance
- 100 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 6200m
- Max Time
- 30h
- ITRA
- 6 pts
Marathon 42K
Price: 75 EUR
- Distance
- 42 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 2800m
- Max Time
- 14h
- ITRA
- 3 pts
Trail 21K
Price: 45 EUR
- Distance
- 21 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1200m
- Max Time
- 7h
- ITRA
- 1 pts
| 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 |
Will your watch battery last the ~28 h of Ultra Sierra Nevada?Worked out for the longest course (100 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchYour checklist for Ultra Sierra Nevada
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 6 ready
GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Polar Pacer Pro
Ultra-light: just 41 g
Downside: No multi-band GPS
Gear
Shoes with good grip are a must for rocky and snowy sections
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Hoka Speedgoat 7
Max Hoka cushioning: protects your legs over long distances
Downside: High stack: less stable for those who want more ground feel
Nutrition
Extra hydration is needed due to altitude and the July heat
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Gourmet Latino Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
100% natural, sin ingredientes artificiales
Downside: Sabor muy dulce, puede cansar en ingestas repetidas
Sun Protection
Reapply every 2 hours, even on cloudy days
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
Body Care
Category 4 sunglasses are essential for the snow sections above 3,000m
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Julbo Aerospeed
Photochromic lenses: adapt from forest to summits
Downside: Higher price compared to non-photochromic glasses
Car Rental
Mountain roads are in good condition but winding
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
Trip logistics
Registration, travel and insurance: what you should have sorted before race day.
Affiliate links: if you buy, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Seasonal kit
Snow and altitude at Ultra Sierra Nevada: high-mountain kit
Thermal layers, windproof shell, gloves, gaiters, sunglasses and mandatory gear for running on snow.
See the full kit : What to Wear for Snow and High-Mountain Trail Running 2026: The Complete KitUltra Sierra Nevada requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Swipe to see all 4 comparisons
Historical weather
What to wear at 15 °C: guide and kit →
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 3 April
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
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
Essential above 3,000m
With a spare battery for the night
Nights are cold at 3,000m
Minimum 1L of water
360Complete Pack
Ultra Sierra Nevada 2026 Registration
RegistrationRegistration opens in March and spots typically sell out within a few weeks. Three distances available.
Tips
- •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
AccommodationThe best accommodation options near the race start and finish line.
Tips
- •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
GearEssential equipment for tackling Ultra Sierra Nevada. High-mountain terrain with stretches above 3,000m.
Tips
- •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
Which shoes for Ultra Sierra Nevada?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Ultra Sierra Nevada?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Technical Trail Running Apparel 2026: Waterproof Jackets, Wind Shells, Tights and Gaiters
Comparison of the essential technical pieces for trail running in cold, wind or rain: 5 jackets (membrane waterproofs and wind shells), thermal base layer, tights, gloves, buff and gaiters. Which jacket to pick depending on your race rulebook and forecast.
Best Barefoot & Minimalist Trail Running Shoes 2026
The 5 best barefoot and minimalist trail running shoes in 2026: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail III, Altra Lone Peak 9, Freet Feldom 3, Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail and Saguaro. Zero drop, wide toe box, proprioception and how to transition without getting injured.
Best Cushioned Trail Running Shoes for Ultras 2026
Best cushioned trail running shoes 2026: 6 max-cushion picks for ultras and long runs. Carbon plate or not, stability and who each one is for.
Nutrition Plan for Ultra Sierra Nevada
NutritionNutrition strategy for a high-altitude race with major elevation gain.
Tips
- •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
Best muscle recovery drinks for trail running 2026: comparison
Comparison of the 5 best muscle recovery drinks for trail running in 2026: Victory Endurance Total Recovery, 226ERS Recovery Drink, Crown Sport Nutrition 3:1 Recovery+, Powerbar Recovery and Scientiffic Nutrition Recovery.
How to Get to Sierra Nevada
TransportGranada has good connections by air, rail and road.
Tips
- •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
Drop Bags for Ultra Running 2026: Which Duffel to Use and What to Pack
Comparing 3 duffel bags for ultra running drop bags: North Face Base Camp Duffel, Patagonia Black Hole 55L and Osprey Transporter. Which to choose and what to pack inside.
Car Rental in Granada
Car RentalA rental car gives you the freedom to get around Sierra Nevada and explore the area.
Tips
- •Mountain roads are in good condition but winding
Sports Insurance for Ultra Sierra Nevada
InsuranceRun with peace of mind with insurance that covers mountain rescue and medical assistance.
Tips
- •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
Sun ProtectionAt 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.
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
Best caps and visors for trail running 2026: sun protection on race day
Visor or cap for running? Visors vent more heat, caps protect your scalp from the sun. The best caps, visors and UV buffs for trail running in 2026, with a verdict by race type.
Best sunglasses for trail running 2026: photochromic, polarized and budget picks
The best sunglasses for trail running in 2026: mountain photochromic, budget-friendly polarized, interchangeable lenses and an entry-level option. Comparison and recommendations.
Body care for Ultra Sierra Nevada
Body CareA 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.
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
Best Arm Sleeves for Trail Running 2026: Compression, Warmth and UV Protection
Comparison of the best arm sleeves for trail running in 2026: compression, thermal and UV-protective. Compressport, Salomon, 2XU, UYN, COROS, Alé and Hanker.
Best Massage Guns for Trail Running 2026: The 5 Top Picks Compared
Compare the 5 best massage guns for trail runners in 2026: Theragun Prime, Theragun Mini, Bob and Brad Q2 Mini, RENPHO with heat and cold, and Cecotec SkinCare. Amplitude, portability, noise, and price.
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.
The Best Trail Running Books in 2026
9 essential trail running and ultra trail books, from Kilian Jornet's memoirs to the classic Born to Run and the most recommended training manuals — most published only in Spanish, with a guide to what to read depending on the kind of runner you are.
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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