CxM Alhama Trail 2026 registration opens on
Save the date and get your gear ready in the meantime.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25K | 25 km | D+ 1350m | - | - |
| 13K | 13 km | D+ 625m | - | - |
| 16.2K Hike | 16.2 km | D+ 550m | - | - |
CxM Alhama Trail requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Best Value Trail and Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
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See comparisonWhat you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Leki
Leki Ultratrail FX.One
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
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
9°C – 17°C
Average 13°C
Rain
30%
2.3 mm avg
Wind
19 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
8h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (30% chance of rain)
Asics
Asics Gel-Trabuco 14 GTX
A best-selling beginner trail shoe: GEL cushioning, good stability and a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. Versatile and reliable for training on mixed terrain in any weather.
Berghaus
Berghaus Paclite 2.0 GTX
Waterproof jacket with a Gore-Tex Paclite membrane (around 330 g). Fully waterproof with taped seams, fixed adjustable hood, storm flap behind the zip and cuff adjustment. Packs down small in a vest. Heavier than a pure running hardshell, but it meets the waterproof-breathable membrane requirement in race rules and is the affordable route into Gore-Tex.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Glove
Glove with a fully waterproof, windproof GORE-TEX membrane and light insulation. The pick for running in snow, sleet or heavy rain while keeping your hand dry.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear M GORE-TEX Thermo Glove
Warmer variant of the Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX: the same fully waterproof, windproof membrane, with extra thermal lining for intense cold on top of snow or rain. The pick when the problem isn't just water, but water AND hard cold at once.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Chubasquero Gore-Tex Shakedry ultraligero (110 g). Impermeabilidad total sin membrana interior, altamente transpirable. El referente para corredores de montaña.
Nike
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
The best-selling gateway trail shoe: comfortable, cushioned and versatile for moving from road to trail. Waterproof GORE-TEX version, perfect for beginners and easy runs on mixed terrain.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti Pro Waterproof Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove built for running, not just standing still in the snow: a waterproof membrane with more dexterity and less bulk than a thick membrane glove, for sustained rain without giving up handling gels or poles.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Sealskinz
Sealskinz Waterproof Lightweight Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove from a brand that specializes in outdoor sport waterproofing. A solid middle ground between a thin windproof glove and a thick membrane glove: genuinely waterproof without the bulk or price of the Gore C5.
TRIWONDER
TRIWONDER Polainas Impermeables Trail
Waterproof, breathable low gaiters for trail running, hiking and mountain use. Under-shoe strap and adjustable elastic band. A budget-friendly alternative to premium technical brand gaiters.
Bring thermal layers (low of 9°C)
Buff
Buff Thermonet
Buff tubular térmico con tecnología Primaloft. Retiene el calor corporal, ultraligero y polivalente: gorro, braga, cinta. Ideal para alta montaña.
Craft
Craft Pro Hypervent LS Wind Top
Thermal top with a windproof ripstop panel on the chest and a highly ventilated soft jersey back. Built for high-intensity sessions in cold, windy conditions, with long cuffs and thumb loops.
HANKER
HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica
Unisex thermal seamless neck gaiter in Soft Air Plus fabric (97% polyester). Seamless fit designed for trail running, cycling, motorcycling and outdoor sports. A budget alternative to Buff for moderate cold.
Icebreaker
Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis LS Crewe
Long-sleeve thermal top in 100% merino wool (200g). Natural temperature regulation, genuine multi-day odor resistance and a soft, non-itch handfeel from the fine merino yarn.
Odlo
Odlo Active Warm Eco
Camiseta térmica de manga larga con tejido reciclado y tratamiento antiolor. Regulación térmica activa, ideal como capa base en montaña.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Longsleeve Mujer
Women's long-sleeve thermal top with insulating panels placed over cold-sensitive areas (lower back and kidneys). A mid-layer built for genuinely cold winter conditions, mountain outings or cross-country-style trail sessions.
Salomon
Salomon Agile LS Tee
Lightweight quick-dry polyester long-sleeve tee with underarm mesh, a side pocket and reflective details. Works as a standalone layer in mild cold or as a base layer under a windbreaker on colder days.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Run Tight
Mallas largas de trail con tejido elástico y transpirable. Cintura ajustable, bolsillo trasero con cremallera. Protección contra el frío y la vegetación.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Guantes térmicos de running con palma antideslizante y puntas táctiles. Ligeros, cálidos y compatibles con bastones.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock
Compression thermal top with a dual-layer fabric: ultra-warm brushed interior and quick-dry exterior. Second-skin compression fit with stretch mesh panels at the back and underarms for ventilation without losing warmth.
Forecast for 24 October
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
CxM Alhama Trail
The CxM Alhama Trail cuts through the ravines and gorges of Cervera del Río Alhama, at the far southeastern edge of Rioja Baja, close to the border with Navarre. Organized by La Ribera Club de Montaña, the 3rd edition arrives on October 24, 2026, with a special addition: the 25K distance now doubles as La Rioja’s official mixed-club mountain running championship, drawing more affiliated runners from across the region every year.
The route moves through terrain that feels distinctly different from La Rioja’s northern ranges: natural ravines, rock-cut gorges, and Mediterranean scrubland hills.
A Route of Gorges and Cobbled Tracks
All three formats share the technical character of the terrain, with trails, tracks, and stretches of the GR 93 long-distance path crossing both Cervera’s town center and the surrounding gorges:
- 25K (+1,350m gain): the competitive, championship-status distance, packing the circuit’s steepest elevation profile into its shortest race.
- 13K (+625m gain): designed as an entry point into trail running or a step up from road racing, without losing the technical character of the terrain.
- 16.2K Hike (+550m): a non-competitive hiking format, part of the Liga Ibérica de Senderismo circuit, ideal for covering the same ground without race pace.
A distinctive feature of the route is its cobbled tracks flecked with pyrite outcrops, a local geological quirk that calls for solid-grip footwear, especially if the ground is damp.
Regional Championship and Club Atmosphere
With the 25K counting toward La Rioja’s official mixed-club championship, this edition becomes a standout fixture on the region’s mountain running calendar. Clubs across the community tend to bring full squads, giving the start and finish in Cervera a distinct club-racing atmosphere.
Cervera del Río Alhama Beyond the Race
Cervera del Río Alhama preserves a natural landscape that’s still underexplored even within La Rioja: the Alhama gorges and ravines are worth a visit in their own right beyond race day. If you’re spending the weekend in the area, pair the race with a look at races in the La Rioja region or plan the rest of your autumn season with the season planner.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
With charged battery, recommended across all three distances
360Complete Pack
CxM Alhama Trail 2026 Registration
RegistrationOrganized by La Ribera Club de Montaña, with bib registration managed through Cronolimits. The 25K also hosts La Rioja's official mixed-club mountain running championship, which tends to draw a strong turnout from affiliated running clubs.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Check the official regulations on the La Ribera Club de Montaña website before registering
- •The 25K counts toward the La Rioja championship: confirm your category with your federation if racing for a club
- •Spots for the 16.2K hike tend to sell out later than the competitive races
Where to Stay in Cervera del Río Alhama
AccommodationCervera del Río Alhama is a small town in the Rioja Baja with limited accommodation options. Book ahead or look at nearby towns like Alfaro or Cintruénigo.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Book early: the town itself has limited hotel capacity
- •Alfaro, less than 20 minutes away by car, offers more hotel and apartment options
- •Cintruénigo or Corella, in Navarre, are also close via the N-113
Gear for the CxM Alhama Trail
GearThe route mixes technical trails, cobbled tracks with pyrite outcrops, and gorge sections. Solid-grip shoes are essential, especially for the 25K and its 1,350m of elevation gain.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Leki
Leki Ultratrail FX.One
Foldable trail running poles in 3 sections (110-130 cm). Ultralight carbon (175 g per pole), compact 38 cm folded. Speed Lock 2 locking system.
Salomon
Salomon ADV Skin 12
Chaleco de hidratación de 12 litros con sistema SensiFit. Dos soft flasks frontales de 500 ml incluidas. Bolsillos de fácil acceso y ajuste ceñido sin rebotes.
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.
Tips
- •Aggressive-grip trail shoes: the cobbled, pyrite-flecked tracks get slippery when wet
- •Poles recommended for the 25K, with 1,350m of gain packed into a short distance
- •A lightweight hydration vest for carrying whatever mandatory gear the regulations require
Which shoes for CxM Alhama Trail?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for CxM Alhama Trail?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Neck Gaiter (Buff) for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
Comparison of the best neck gaiters for trail running in 2026: Buff Original, Midweight, Windproof, DryFlx, CoolNet UV+, Thermonet, HANKER and Salomon Merino. Which to pick based on sun, wind, cold or budget.
Best Thermal Base Layer for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
The best thermal base layers for trail running in 2026: Odlo Active Warm Eco, Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis, Craft Pro Hypervent, Under Armour ColdGear, Salomon Agile LS Tee and Odlo I-Thermic. Which to pick based on cold, sweat management, merino wool, compression or built-in wind protection.
Best Trail Running Gaiters 2026: 3-Way Comparison
Comparing the 3 best trail running gaiters in 2026: Salomon Trail Gaiters High, Salomon Trail Gaiters Low and TRIWONDER waterproof gaiters. Which to pick by terrain and budget.
Nutrition for the CxM Alhama Trail
NutritionThe 25K can take 3-4 hours of effort with a demanding elevation profile for its distance. Supplement the race aid stations with your own gel and electrolyte strategy.
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.
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Salts Electrolytes
Mineral salt capsules with 250 mg of sodium each, plus potassium, magnesium and ginger extract for better digestive tolerance. The highest sodium per capsule from Spain's benchmark endurance brand. Zero calories: you replace salts without touching your gel plan.
Dorimed
Dátiles Medjool Dorimed
Palestinian Medjool dates, large and juicy. Each one delivers around 18 g of carbohydrates in a very compact format. Soft texture, easy to chew and with extremely high caloric density. The classic choice among runners looking for natural alternatives to gels.
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.
Tips
- •Add electrolytes on the sun-exposed hill sections of the Rioja Baja
- •Carry backup gels: aid stations on a small mountain race route tend to be spaced out
- •The organization provides a runner's bag and finish-line refreshments per the official regulations
How to Get to Cervera del Río Alhama
TransportCervera sits in the far southeast of La Rioja, near the border with Navarre and close to the A-68 and N-113.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Logroño: about 1 hour via the A-68 and N-232
- •From Zaragoza or Pamplona: around 1h30 via the A-68/N-113
- •A car is the most practical option given the town's small size and limited public transport
Car Rental in Rioja Baja
Car RentalA car makes it easy to move between Cervera and nearby towns like Alfaro or Cintruénigo, and to explore the Rioja Baja over the weekend.
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
- •Book ahead if traveling from outside the region: local rental supply is limited
- •Take the chance to explore the Alhama gorges beyond race day
Sports Insurance for the CxM Alhama Trail
InsuranceAs with most races on La Rioja's mountain running circuit, registration requires a valid federation license or day insurance.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Current-year FEDME license or day insurance required to start
- •Check the official regulations to confirm the exact coverage required for this edition
Sun Protection for the CxM Alhama Trail
Sun ProtectionThe hill and gorge sections around Cervera are highly exposed to the sun, especially on the 25K, which runs through midday hours in October.
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
- •Sweat-resistant sunscreen for the 3-4 hours of the 25K
- •Lip balm with SPF for the windy gorge sections
Body Care for the CxM Alhama Trail
Body CareThe pyrite-flecked cobbled tracks and technical gorge descents take a toll on ankles and feet throughout the race.
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.
BodyGlide
BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Anti-chafe balm in stick format. Creates an invisible barrier on the skin that reduces friction without clogging pores. Sweat-resistant, ideal for critical zones like inner thighs, armpits, and nipples on long races.
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.
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
- •Sunglasses for the exposed hill sections during mid-morning
- •Anti-chafing balm if tackling the 25K's longer effort
- •A lightweight buff for the dust kicked up on the cobbled tracks
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the CxM Alhama Trail 2026?
- The 3rd edition of the CxM Alhama Trail takes place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, in Cervera del Río Alhama, La Rioja.
- What distances does the CxM Alhama Trail offer?
- Three formats: the 25K (+1,350m elevation gain), which also serves as La Rioja's official mixed-club mountain running championship; the 13K (+625m), designed for runners transitioning from road running or new to trail; and the non-competitive 16.2K hike (+550m), part of the Liga Ibérica de Senderismo circuit.
- What is the CxM Alhama Trail route like?
- It combines trails, tracks, and stretches of the GR 93 long-distance path through Cervera's town center and the surrounding gorges and hills covered in Mediterranean scrubland, including cobbled tracks with pyrite outcrops typical of the area.
- Where can I register for the CxM Alhama Trail?
- Registration is handled through Cronolimits. Check the official regulations on the La Ribera Club de Montaña website for deadlines, prices, and conditions.
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