Manzanares el Real
Cross de la Pedriza
Sunday, 9 May 2027estimated date
Cross de la Pedriza 25K
25km D+ 1600m
Cross de la Pedriza 18K
18km D+ 1000m
Cross de la Pedriza 12K
12km D+ 600m
Cross de la Pedriza 5K
5km D+ 250m
Cross de la Pedriza 2027: estimated date 9 May 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross de la Pedriza 25K | 25 km | D+ 1600m | - | 34 EUR |
| Cross de la Pedriza 18K | 18 km | D+ 1000m | - | 28 EUR |
| Cross de la Pedriza 12K | 12 km | D+ 600m | - | 20 EUR |
| Cross de la Pedriza 5K | 5 km | D+ 250m | - | 12 EUR |
Cross de la Pedriza requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
What you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon
Salomon Soft Flask 250 ml
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
10°C – 20°C
Average 15°C
Rain
40%
2.8 mm avg
Wind
17 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
12h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (40% 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 10°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.
Sun protection essential (12h sunshine, up to 20°C)
Forecast for 9 May
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Cross de la Pedriza: legendary race in the heart of the Guadarrama
Cross de la Pedriza is one of Madrid’s most iconic mountain races. Organized by the Real Sociedad Española de Alpinismo Peñalara (RSEA Peñalara) in partnership with the Madrid Mountain Federation, the race reaches its 35th edition in 2026. Start and finish at the Town Hall Square of Manzanares el Real, the gateway to Sierra de Guadarrama National Park.
The race scores for the Copa de Hierro by RSEA Peñalara and serves as the Madrid Mountain Running Championship, making it an essential event for runners in the region. Created in 1989 as “Cross de Escalada” by legendary mountaineer Carlos Soria, the race has grown to offer four distances for all levels.
The course: rock, water and granite summits
La Pedriza is a unique landscape in Europe: an immense granite chaos sculpted by erosion over millions of years. The 25 km course crosses this spectacular scenery along technical trails featuring:
- Senda Maeso — Classic access to La Pedriza with views of the Santillana reservoir
- El Yelmo (1,717 m) — La Pedriza’s most iconic granite spire, visible from kilometers away
- Collado de la Ventana — Pass between the Anterior and Posterior sections of La Pedriza
- Las Torres — Area of spectacular rock formations with mandatory scrambles
- Streams and meadows — Water crossings and green zones breaking through the granite
The terrain combines technical trail, rock scrambles (hands-on), stream crossings and mountain paths. A race where technique matters as much as fitness.
Four distances for all levels
Cross de la Pedriza offers distances for runners of all abilities:
- 25K (1,600 m D+): the complete route through La Pedriza, with the most technical sections and highest summits. Time limit: 6 hours.
- 18K (1,000 m D+): long route without the most extreme sections. Time limit: 4 hours.
- 12K (600 m D+): mid-distance ideal for first-timers in La Pedriza.
- 5K (250 m D+): short route for families and beginners.
Places are limited for all distances due to National Park regulations.
Manzanares el Real: castle, reservoir and mountains
Manzanares el Real is a charming village just 50 km from Madrid. Famous for its 15th-century Mendoza Castle (one of the best-preserved in the region), the Santillana reservoir and, of course, La Pedriza, the largest granite formation in Europe. In May, the sierra is in full spring: pleasant temperatures, flowing streams and green meadows. A perfect weekend to combine racing, nature and sightseeing.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Mobile phone with sufficient battery
Waterproof jacket or windbreaker with hood, correct size
Emergency survival thermal blanket
360Complete Pack
Cross de la Pedriza 2026 Registration
RegistrationRegistration managed through RockTheSport. Places limited for each distance due to Sierra de Guadarrama National Park regulations.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Registration opens first for federation members (February 25-27), then for everyone
- •Limited places: La Pedriza is a National Park with regulated access
- •Reduced price for FMM federation members
- •No cups provided at aid stations: bring your own collapsible cup
Where to stay for Cross de la Pedriza
AccommodationManzanares el Real is a charming village at the foot of Sierra de Guadarrama, famous for its medieval castle and the Santillana reservoir.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Hotels and rural houses in Manzanares el Real: book in advance
- •Soto del Real and Colmenar Viejo are 10-15 minutes away
- •Madrid city center is 50 km away (under 1 hour via M-607)
- •The race is on Sunday: arrive Saturday and visit the Mendoza Castle
Gear for Cross de la Pedriza
GearTechnical race through La Pedriza with scrambles, granite rock and stream crossings. The terrain demands shoes with excellent grip and protection.
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 Soft Flask 250 ml
Collapsible 250 ml soft flask with a high-flow valve and a wide 42 mm mouth for fast refills at aid stations. It shrinks as you drink, fits the front pocket of any vest and weighs just a few grams empty.
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.
Freet
Freet Feldom 3
100% barefoot trail shoe with zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm sole) and anatomical last that respects the natural width of the foot. No midsole cushioning: maximum proprioception and ground feedback. Multi-directional lugs for dirt trails and paths. Designed for runners already adapted to minimalist footwear or those transitioning gradually from cushioned natural footwear.
Tips
- •Trail shoes with sticky soles: smooth granite rock and wet stream crossings
- •Hydration vest mandatory: you need to carry water and your own cup
- •May in La Pedriza: hot in lower areas but cool on the summits
- •Extensive mandatory gear list: check the full list before starting
Which shoes for Cross de la Pedriza?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Cross de la Pedriza?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best GPS watches for beginner runners 2026
The best entry-level GPS watches to start running in 2026 without overspending. Garmin Forerunner 165, Coros Pace 3, Polar Pacer Pro and Amazfit Cheetah Pro. Simplicity, everyday battery and good price. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
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.
Nutrition for Cross de la Pedriza
NutritionDemanding race with aid stations on course. Remember to bring your own cup: none are provided at aid stations.
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.
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.
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.
Tips
- •Bring your own collapsible cup: mandatory and not provided at aid stations
- •Extra gels and bars for the technical sections between aid stations
- •Hydration is key in May: temperatures can exceed 25 C in lower areas
- •Water and isotonic drinks available at aid stations
How to get to Manzanares el Real
TransportManzanares el Real is north of Madrid, at the foot of La Pedriza, well connected by road.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Madrid: 50 km via M-607 and M-862 (45 minutes)
- •Intercity buses from Plaza de Castilla (line 724)
- •Parking in Manzanares el Real (arrive early: race starts at 8:45 AM)
- •Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is 60 km away
Car rental for Cross de la Pedriza
Car RentalA car lets you explore Sierra de Guadarrama and reach Manzanares el Real comfortably.
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.
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.
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
- •Great for a weekend in the sierra: La Pedriza, Peñalara, La Barranca
- •The bus from Plaza de Castilla is an alternative if you don't need a car
Sports insurance for Cross de la Pedriza
InsuranceRegistration includes accident and liability insurance. Mountain federation members also have their federation coverage.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Accident and liability insurance included in registration
- •Medical service and ambulances on course during the race
- •FMM federation members have additional coverage
Body care for Cross de la Pedriza
Body CareTechnical terrain with granite rock, scrambles and stream crossings. Blisters and chafing are common on this type of course.
Compeed
Compeed Ampollas Medianas Duplo
Hydrocolloid blister plasters for medium blisters. Instant pain relief, protect the blister while it heals and stay in place for hours even with sweat. Pack of 10 individually wrapped plasters, ideal for carrying in a trail running vest.
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.
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.
Tips
- •Durable trail socks: granite rock and streams are tough on feet
- •Anti-chafe balm on friction areas
- •Mandatory gloves protect during rock scrambles
- •Watch your ankles: the uneven terrain demands constant attention
Sun protection for Cross de la Pedriza
Sun ProtectionMay race with high sun exposure in the open areas of La Pedriza. Few shaded sections on the summit route.
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.
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.
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.
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
- •Apply sunscreen before the start: La Pedriza has very little shade
- •Cap or visor recommended: several hours under the May sun
- •May sun in the sierra can be intense: reapply at aid stations
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 Cross de la Pedriza 2026?
- The 35th edition of Cross de la Pedriza takes place on Sunday, May 10, 2026, starting at 8:45 AM from the Town Hall Square in Manzanares el Real.
- What distances are available at Cross de la Pedriza?
- Four distances: 25 km (1,600 m D+), 18 km (1,000 m D+), 12 km (600 m D+) and 5 km (250 m D+). Places are limited for each distance as the race takes place inside a National Park.
- What is the Cross de la Pedriza 25K route?
- It starts from the Town Hall Square in Manzanares el Real and runs through La Pedriza via Senda Maeso, El Yelmo, Collado de la Ventana and Las Torres. Technical terrain with scrambles, granite rock, streams and mountain trails.
- What mandatory gear is required?
- Gloves and buff, mobile phone, waterproof jacket or windbreaker with hood, emergency thermal blanket, hydration bottle or pack, your own cup and the race track loaded on a GPS watch or mobile phone.
- How much does Cross de la Pedriza registration cost?
- Approximately 34 EUR for non-federation members in the 25K. Reduced prices for mountain federation members. Registration opens February 25 (federation members first) and closes May 4 or when places sell out.
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