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
Your checklist for Cross de la Pedriza
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 11 ready
Swipe to see all 12 categories
Swipe to see all 12 categories
GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED 45 mm
Onboard topo maps, unlike the Instinct 3 Solar
Downside: Shorter battery life than the Instinct 3 Solar (no solar charging or MIP display)
Gear
Trail shoes with sticky soles: smooth granite rock and wet stream crossings
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Speedcross 6
Exceptional grip in mud and technical terrain
Downside: Average durability on pavement
Nutrition
Bring your own collapsible cup: mandatory and not provided at aid stations
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Maurten Gel 100
Hydrogel technology: excellent gastric tolerance
Downside: High price compared to other gels
Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen before the start: La Pedriza has very little shade
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)ISDIN Fusion Water Sunscreen SPF 50+
Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
Body Care
Durable trail socks: granite rock and streams are tough on feet
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Compeed Blister Plasters Medium Duo
Instant pain relief on application
Downside: Medium size may not cover large blisters
Car Rental
Great for a weekend in the sierra: La Pedriza, Peñalara, La Barranca
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)DRIVALIA CarCloud City
Mandatory
Gloves
Gloves and buff or neck gaiter
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Mandatory
Charged mobile phone
Mobile phone with sufficient battery
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Generic Running Waist Pack with Phone Pocket
Mandatory
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof jacket or windbreaker with hood, correct size
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Mandatory
Emergency blanket
Emergency survival thermal blanket
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Lifesystems Thermal Blanket
Mandatory
Water reserve
Water bottle, hydration pack or own collapsible cup
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)MARLOAR Soft Flask 500 ml (Pack of 2)
Two units for the price of one branded flask
Downside: Silicone is heavier and tastes slightly more than branded TPU flasks
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.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Gloves
Gloves and buff or neck gaiter
Charged mobile phone
Mobile phone with sufficient battery
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof jacket or windbreaker with hood, correct size
Emergency blanket
Emergency survival thermal blanket
Water reserve
Water bottle, hydration pack or own collapsible cup
Items tagged “Mandatory” are in the checklist above, with a recommended product.
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Advanced
Distance
4 modalities
Cross de la Pedriza 25K
Price: 34 EUR
- Distance
- 25 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1600m
- Max Time
- -
Cross de la Pedriza 18K
Price: 28 EUR
- Distance
- 18 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1000m
- Max Time
- -
Cross de la Pedriza 12K
Price: 20 EUR
- Distance
- 12 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 600m
- Max Time
- -
Cross de la Pedriza 5K
Price: 12 EUR
- Distance
- 5 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 250m
- Max Time
- -
| 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 |
Will your watch battery last the ~7 h of Cross de la Pedriza?Worked out for the longest course (25 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchCross de la Pedriza 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
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.
Brooks
Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX
The Cascadia 20 with a GORE-TEX membrane: stability and protection for rocky mountain terrain, keeping the foot dry on cold, rainy days.
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
Ultralight Gore-Tex Shakedry waterproof jacket (110 g). Full waterproofing without an inner membrane, highly breathable. The benchmark for mountain runners.
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
Ultralight waterproof windproof jacket (135 g). Taped seams, adjustable hood and back ventilation. Packs into its own pocket.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX
The Speedcross 6 with a GORE-TEX membrane: the same aggressive 5 mm lugs for mud and soft ground, now waterproof for winter, rain and snow.
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.
Shokz
Shokz OpenRun
Open-ear bone conduction headphones with IP67 rating: they take rain, mud and a rinse under the tap. Up to 8 h of battery and quick charge (10 min for 1.5 h). The most rugged pick of the range for training in bad weather.
TRIWONDER
TRIWONDER Waterproof Trail Gaiters
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
Thermal tubular Buff with Primaloft technology. Traps body heat, ultralight and versatile: hat, neck gaiter, headband. Ideal for high mountain.
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 Thermal Neck Gaiter
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
Long-sleeve thermal base layer made from recycled fabric with anti-odour treatment. Active thermal regulation, ideal as a base layer in the mountains.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Women's Longsleeve
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.
ROCKBROS
ROCKBROS Thermal Windproof Balaclava
Thermal windproof balaclava covering head, ears, cheeks and neck. Designed for cycling and motorcycling, it works just as well on windy, freezing trail runs.
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
Long trail tights with stretchy, breathable fabric. Adjustable waist, zipped back pocket. Protection from cold and vegetation.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Thermal running gloves with a non-slip palm and touchscreen fingertips. Light, warm and compatible with poles.
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.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock (Men's)
Men's high-neck thermal compression top: brushed interior that holds heat and a quick-dry outer. Base layer for cold-weather runs.
Sun protection essential (12h sunshine, up to 20°C)
Forecast for 9 May
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
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.
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.
Tips
- •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.
Tips
- •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.
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: Garmin Forerunner 165, Coros Pace 3, Polar Pacer Pro and Amazfit Cheetah Pro compared.
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Best trail running poles 2026: Black Diamond, Leki and Komperdell compared. Carbon vs aluminium, folding length, technique and how to pick your size.
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Best trail running hydration vests 2026: 12 vests and packs compared. How many litres you need by distance, soft flasks vs reservoir, and fit.
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.
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.
Tips
- •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.
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.
Tips
- •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.
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.
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 compared 7 SPF 50 sweat-proof picks — creams, sticks and a lip balm — on heat, altitude UV and sweat resistance. 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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