Ultra-Trail Guara Somontano

Ultra-Trail Guara Somontano: trail running through the canyons of the Sierra de Guara

The Ultra-Trail Guara Somontano (UTGS) is one of the highlights of the Aragonese trail calendar. Starting and finishing in Alquézar, one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, the race heads into the Sierra y los Cañones de Guara Natural Park (Huesca), a land of limestone rock, spectacular gorges and walkways suspended over the Vero river.

Four distances —from 17 to 82 kilometres— let runners of every level experience the Somontano de Barbastro at their own pace: from those looking to take their first steps in trail running to those tackling a demanding ultra with almost 5,000 metres of positive climbing.

A 4,700 m course in the flagship 82K

The UTGS 82K is the star race, with 4,700 metres of positive climbing linking the most emblematic peaks and canyons of the Sierra de Guara. A night start from Alquézar, long technical trail sections and limestone terrain that demand careful management of both effort and hydration.

The remaining distances round out a complete weekend:

• Vuelta a Sevil 48K — 2,500 m of climbing, a very complete mid-ultra
• Trail del Vero 30K — 1,400 m of climbing, with the Vero river and its walkways as the stars
• Trail Alquézar Rosado 17K — 850 m of climbing, ideal for getting started in mountain trail running

Warm climate and a unique terrain

Unlike high-altitude Pyrenean races, the UTGS is run in a Mediterranean mid-mountain setting: dry canyons, conglomerate walls and a warm climate even in early October. Sun exposure is high and water is scarce between aid stations, so sun protection and a solid hydration strategy make all the difference. Review the mandatory gear before the start.

Alquézar and the Somontano beyond the race

Alquézar is a medieval village crowned by a fortified collegiate church, with a historic centre listed as a Site of Cultural Interest. It is the canyoning capital of Spain and the gateway to the Vero river walkways, a must-see for companions and runners extending their stay.

The Somontano de Barbastro region combines nature, prehistoric rock art (a World Heritage Site) and a renowned wine Denomination of Origin. Make the most of the trip to discover more races in Aragon and plan your season with our planner.