Navacerrada
Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca
Sunday, 6 June 2027estimated date
Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca
7.3km D+ 1010m
Your checklist for Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 9 ready
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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
Lightweight trail shoes with good grip: steep gradients with loose terrain
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)La Sportiva Bushido III
FriXion White outsole with Impact Brake System: exceptional grip on rock
Downside: Low cushioning: uncomfortable over very long distances
Nutrition
One gel before or during the climb is enough for the 7 km
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: June has strong sun in the sierra
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
Quality trail socks to prevent blisters on the climb
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
A car is almost mandatory: no direct train or bus to the start
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)DRIVALIA CarCloud City
Mandatory
Windproof jacket
Windbreaker or warm clothing mandatory
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Bonatti WP
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
Water reserve
Cup, bottle or container for drinking at aid stations
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
Windproof jacket
Windbreaker or warm clothing mandatory
Charged mobile phone
Mobile phone with sufficient battery
Water reserve
Cup, bottle or container for drinking at aid stations
Items tagged “Mandatory” are in the checklist above, with a recommended product.
Race data
Terrain
Vertical Km
Difficulty
Advanced
Distance
1 modalities
Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca
Price: 27 EUR
- Distance
- 7.3 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1010m
- Max Time
- -
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca | 7.3 km | D+ 1010m | - | 27 EUR |
Will your watch battery last the ~3 h of Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca?Worked out for the longest course (7.3 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchKilómetro Vertical de la Barranca 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 – 21°C
Average 16°C
Rain
30%
1.8 mm avg
Wind
15 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
13h
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.
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.
Sun protection essential (13h sunshine, up to 21°C)
Forecast for 6 June
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca: Madrid’s classic vertical race
The Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca is one of the most iconic vertical races in the Madrid region. Organized by the Royal Spanish Mountaineering Society Peñalara (RSEA Peñalara) as part of the Copa de Hierro circuit, the race reaches its 24th edition in 2026. Start from the Barranca Valley in Navacerrada and finish at the Alto de Guarramillas (Bola del Mundo) at 2,267 m elevation.
The race counts towards the Madrid Vertical Running Cup and the Regional Vertical Kilometer Championship, attracting the best vertical running specialists in the region.
The course: from valley to summit
The 7.3 kilometers of the KV de la Barranca trace a relentless ascent from 1,260 m in the Barranca Valley to 2,267 m at the Guarramillas summit:
- Barranca Valley (1,260 m) — Start on the rural road, with a neutralized start before the timed section
- Forest trails — First section through Scots pine forests with progressive gradients
- Upper zone — Open mountain terrain with extreme gradients and panoramic views
- Alto de Guarramillas / Bola del Mundo (2,267 m) — Finish at the summit, with views across the entire Sierra de Guadarrama
The terrain combines forest trail, mountain track and steep sections on loose ground. The neutralized start groups runners before the timed section begins.
Copa de Hierro: Madrid’s premier mountain running circuit
The KV de la Barranca is part of the Copa de Hierro, the most prestigious mountain running circuit in the Sierra de Guadarrama. The circuit includes five classic races: Cross de los 3 Refugios, Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca, Carrera de Las Dehesas, Cross de la Pedriza and Cross de Cuerda Larga.
Navacerrada: heart of Sierra de Guadarrama
Navacerrada is one of the most emblematic municipalities in the Sierra de Guadarrama, located just 55 km from Madrid. The Barranca Valley is a natural area of pine forests and mountain streams, a starting point for numerous hiking routes. In June, the sierra offers pleasant temperatures in the valley and cool conditions at the summits, with the longest days of the year.
360Complete Pack
KV de la Barranca 2026 Registration
RegistrationOnline registration through the Copa de Hierro website. Bibs limited to 350 participants. Organized by RSEA Peñalara.
Tips
- •Reduced price for FMM federation members (€22) and Peñalara members (€12)
- •Online registration only at copadehierro.es, no on-site registration
- •Includes technical shirt, insurance, aid stations and finish line meal
- •Minimum age 18 years for the main race
Where to stay for KV de la Barranca
AccommodationNavacerrada is a Sierra de Guadarrama village with good rural accommodation options. You can also stay in Cercedilla, Becerril de la Sierra or Collado Mediano.
Tips
- •Hotels and rural houses in Navacerrada: book in advance for weekends
- •Cercedilla and Becerril de la Sierra are 10 minutes away
- •The race is on Sunday with a 9:30 AM start: arrive Saturday and stay overnight
- •Madrid city center is 55 km away (50 minutes via A-6 and M-601)
Gear for KV de la Barranca
GearPure vertical race with 1,000 m elevation gain in 7.3 km. Mountain terrain with technical trail and steep gradients. Poles prohibited.
Tips
- •Lightweight trail shoes with good grip: steep gradients with loose terrain
- •Soft flask or bottle: minimum hydration for the ascent
- •Poles are NOT allowed in this race
- •Light clothing but bring a windbreaker: the finish is at 2,267 m
Which shoes for Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
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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.
Strength Training Gear for Trail Running at Home 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
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Nutrition for KV de la Barranca
NutritionShort but intense race. Aid stations on course and finish line meal included in registration.
Tips
- •One gel before or during the climb is enough for the 7 km
- •Aid stations with water and isotonic drink on course
- •Finish line meal included in registration
- •Full breakfast 2-3 hours before the start
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 the Barranca Valley
TransportThe Barranca Valley is in Navacerrada, Sierra de Guadarrama, well connected by road from Madrid.
Tips
- •From Madrid: 55 km via A-6 and M-601 to Navacerrada
- •Parking at the Barranca Valley area (arrive early)
- •No direct train to the valley: driving is the best option
- •Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is 70 km away
Car rental for KV de la Barranca
Car RentalEssential if you don't have your own car. There is no direct public transport to the Barranca Valley.
Tips
- •A car is almost mandatory: no direct train or bus to the start
- •Great if you want to explore the sierra over the weekend
Sports insurance for KV de la Barranca
InsuranceNon-federation registration includes accident and liability insurance. Mountain federation members also have their federation coverage.
Tips
- •Accident and liability insurance included for non-federation runners
- •Medical service on course during the race
- •FMM federation members have additional coverage through their license
Body care for KV de la Barranca
Body CareShort but very intense vertical race. Extreme gradients that demand good muscular preparation.
Tips
- •Quality trail socks to prevent blisters on the climb
- •Anti-chafe balm: extreme gradients create more friction
- •Proper warm-up essential to prevent muscle injuries
Sun protection for KV de la Barranca
Sun ProtectionDaytime June race ascending to 2,267 m. High sun exposure especially on the upper section.
Tips
- •Apply sunscreen before the start: June has strong sun in the sierra
- •Cap or visor recommended: the upper course has no shade
- •At 2,267 m UV radiation is significantly higher
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 the Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca 2026?
- The 24th edition of the Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca takes place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, with a timed start at 9:30 AM from the Barranca Valley in Navacerrada.
- What is the KV de la Barranca course like?
- The course ascends 7.3 km from the Barranca Valley (1,260 m) to the summit of Guarramillas, known as Bola del Mundo (2,267 m), accumulating over 1,000 m of elevation gain through Sierra de Guadarrama mountain trails.
- How much does KV de la Barranca registration cost?
- Approximately €22 for mountain federation members, €27 for non-members and €12 for RSEA Peñalara club members. Registration through the Copa de Hierro website.
- Are poles allowed at the KV de la Barranca?
- No. The use of trekking or trail running poles is prohibited at the Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca.
- What does registration include?
- Timing with intermediate splits, aid stations on course and at the finish, finish line meal, technical race shirt, accident and liability insurance (for non-federation members) and prize raffle.
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