Pica d'Estats
Pica d’Estats - Catalonia’s highest peak on the French border, a long day among high lakes
The route
The line through Catalan Pyrenees, Spain - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Jul-Sep
Exposed Pyrenean high-mountain weather - storms, cold, snow lingering; check the forecast
Best Jul-Sep; snow lingers; a very long day - a refuge start helps. Confirm.
On the trail
Forest, alpine lakes, scree and a rocky border summit
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Two-day via the refuge; the Montcalm twin-summit
Getting there & staying
Àreu (Vallferrera valley)
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Refugi de Vallferrera for a two-day ascent
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Areu; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; Refugi de Vallferrera is the standard base. Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Altitude, scree, storms, the long day
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.