Ezcaray
Trail Picos de la Demanda
Saturday, 11 September 2027estimated date
35K Trail
35km D+ 2300m
24K Trail
24km D+ 1200m
10K Trail
10.5km D+ 450m
Nocturna by Irier
7km D+ 350m
Trail Picos de la Demanda 2027: estimated date 11 September 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35K Trail | 35 km | D+ 2300m | 8h | - |
| 24K Trail | 24 km | D+ 1200m | 5h | - |
| 10K Trail | 10.5 km | D+ 450m | 3h | - |
| Nocturna by Irier | 7 km | D+ 350m | 2h | - |
Trail Picos de la Demanda 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
See comparison
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
See comparison
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
See comparison
Best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running 2026
See comparisonWhat you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
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
12°C – 23°C
Average 17°C
Rain
27%
2.6 mm avg
Wind
14 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
10h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Sun protection essential (10h sunshine, up to 23°C)
Forecast for 11 September
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Trail Picos de la Demanda
The Trail Picos de la Demanda is one of La Rioja’s most historic mountain races. From Ezcaray, a charming village in the Oja river valley, the courses head into the Sierra de la Demanda along its Riojan slopes, reaching Pico San Lorenzo (2,271m), the region’s highest summit.
The course
Start and finish are at Parque Tenorio in Ezcaray. The main event, the 35K, crosses the Demanda range passing through hamlets like Urdanta, Zaldierna, and Azárrulla before tackling the ascent to San Lorenzo. The route combines mountain trails, centuries-old beech forests, high-mountain scree fields, and ridges with views across the entire Riojan slope.
The distances
- 35K Trail — 2,300m elevation gain, the flagship race. Summit of San Lorenzo via the Riojan slope. High-mountain terrain with technical sections.
- 24K Trail — 1,200m elevation gain, a demanding route through the mid-mountain Demanda, without reaching the San Lorenzo summit.
- 10K Trail — 450m elevation gain, the entry-level distance. A route around Ezcaray, ideal for a first taste of mountain trail.
- Night Race by Irier — 7K with 350m elevation gain, a Friday night race. A unique experience on Ezcaray’s trails under the stars.
Children’s races also take place, making the weekend a family event.
Terrain and difficulty
The Sierra de la Demanda is the western end of the Iberian System. The terrain is high mountain: scree, exposed ridges, beech forests, and technical trails. The 35K is an advanced race requiring mountain experience and the ability to handle altitude and rapidly changing weather. In September, conditions on San Lorenzo can shift from sunshine to cold and wind in minutes.
Ezcaray and the Sierra de la Demanda
Ezcaray is one of La Rioja’s prettiest villages, known for its gastronomy, mountain architecture, and the Valdezcaray ski station (15 minutes away). The Sierra de la Demanda offers authentic mountain landscapes, with beech forests that begin turning ochre and red in September. Explore more races in La Rioja and plan your trail weekend with the season planner.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
360Complete Pack
Trail Picos de la Demanda 2026 Registration
RegistrationRegistration through the official website. The event is organized by the Asociación Amigos de Ezcaray with over 10 editions of experience.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Online registration at picosdelademanda.com
- •Limited bibs across all distances
- •Includes aid stations, timing, and insurance
- •Registration usually opens in February
Where to stay for the Picos de la Demanda
AccommodationEzcaray is a tourist village with good accommodation options, but September is high season. Book well in advance.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Ezcaray has hotels, rural houses, and apartments near the start
- •Santo Domingo de la Calzada (30 min) is an alternative with more options
- •Haro (40 min) lets you combine with Rioja Alta wine tourism
- •September is peak season in Ezcaray: book as early as possible
Recommended gear for the Picos de la Demanda
GearHigh mountain in the Sierra de la Demanda. The 35K summits San Lorenzo (2,271m) with technical terrain, scree, and exposed ridges. September weather at altitude can change rapidly.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Petzl
Petzl Actik Core
Frontal recargable de 600 lúmenes con batería Core incluida. Compatible con pilas AAA. Modo rojo para preservar la visión nocturna. Ideal para ultras con tramos nocturnos.
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
- •Mountain trail shoes with strong grip on rock and scree
- •Trekking poles highly recommended for the 35K with 2,300m elevation gain
- •Windbreaker mandatory: on San Lorenzo at 2,271m temperatures drop dramatically
- •Headlamp for the Night Race and as safety gear for the 35K
- •Hydration pack with at least 1 liter capacity
Which shoes for Trail Picos de la Demanda?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Trail Picos de la Demanda?
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 the Picos de la Demanda
NutritionAid stations along the course. On the 35K, gaps between stations can be long in the high-mountain sections.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
- •Carry enough nutrition between aid stations
- •September temperatures at altitude are cool, but hydration remains key
- •Gels and bars for the long stretches on the 35K
- •The 10K can be completed with minimal extra nutrition
Best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running 2026
A comparison of the 7 best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running and trail 2026: 226ERS Sub9 Salts, Crown Pro Salt Caps, Victory Endurance, Precision Hydration PH 1500 and more. How many salt tablets to take per hour, how to calculate your sweat rate and which format to choose.
How to get to Ezcaray
TransportEzcaray sits in the Oja river valley, on the northern slope of the Sierra de la Demanda. Main access via the LR-111 from Santo Domingo de la Calzada.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Logroño: 60 km (~50 min) via the LR-111
- •From Bilbao: 130 km (~1h 30min) via the AP-68
- •From Vitoria: 100 km (~1h 15min)
- •From Burgos: 100 km (~1h 15min) via the N-120
- •Parking available in the village
Car rental for the Picos de la Demanda
Car RentalA car is essential to reach Ezcaray. Great for exploring the Oja Valley and Rioja Alta wine country.
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
- •Combine the race with a winery tour through Haro and San Vicente de la Sonsierra
- •Valdezcaray ski station is just 15 min from Ezcaray
Sports insurance for the Picos de la Demanda
InsuranceHigh-mountain race with technical sections and significant altitude. Sports insurance is essential.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Basic accident insurance included with registration
- •La Rioja federation license includes additional coverage
- •Mountain rescue coverage highly recommended, especially for the 35K
Body care for the Picos de la Demanda
Body CareHigh mountain with wind exposure and temperature changes. The San Lorenzo ridges are demanding on the skin.
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.
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.
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.
Bob and Brad
Bob and Brad Q2 Mini
Mini massage gun designed by two physiotherapists: 430 g, brushless motor with 15 kg stall force and operation under 45 dB. Charges over USB-C from any charger and ships with a case. The value pick for packing recovery into your bag or car boot.
Tips
- •Anti-chafe cream for longer distances
- •A buff protects from cold wind on ridges above 2,000m
- •Light gloves recommended for the 35K in September
Sun protection for the Picos de la Demanda
Sun ProtectionIn September, UV radiation at high altitude is intense. Altitude amplifies exposure, and exposed ridges offer no shade.
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
- •At 2,271m UV radiation is 25% more intense than at sea level
- •Reapply every 2 hours, essential on exposed ridges
- •Protect lips and ears, commonly forgotten areas
Best Sunscreen for Runners 2026: 7 Sweat-Proof SPF 50 Picks
Which sunscreen survives a sweaty long run? We tested 7 SPF 50 sweat-proof picks — creams, sticks and a lip balm — against heat, altitude UV and hours of sweat. See the winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Trail Picos de la Demanda 2026?
- The Trail Picos de la Demanda takes place in September 2026 in Ezcaray (La Rioja). The event runs over two days: the Night Race on Friday and the trail races on Saturday.
- What distances does the Trail Picos de la Demanda offer?
- Four distances: 35K with 2,300m elevation gain, 24K with 1,200m elevation gain, 10K with 450m elevation gain, and the Night Race 7K with 350m elevation gain. There are also children's races.
- Is it suitable for beginners?
- The 10K with 450m elevation gain is accessible for runners with some trail experience. The 7K Night Race is the most approachable distance. The 35K is for advanced runners with high-mountain experience.
- How do I get to Ezcaray?
- Ezcaray is in the Oja Valley, 60 km from Logroño via the LR-111. The nearest airports are Bilbao (BIO, 130 km), Vitoria (VIT, 100 km), and Logroño-Agoncillo (RJL, 60 km).
- Does the course summit Pico San Lorenzo?
- Yes, the 35K passes through Pico San Lorenzo (2,271m), La Rioja's highest peak. It's the high point of the long course and one of the race's main attractions.
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