HikesSpainVereda de la Estrella

Vereda de la Estrella

La Vereda de la Estrella - a historic path facing Sierra Nevada’s highest peaks, glorious in autumn chestnut colour

Difficulty 3/5 · ModerateDayOut-and-backDay hike (high valley)
Distance
~18 km return
Max elevation
~1,600 m
Elevation gain
~700 m
Duration
6-7 h
historic pathsierra nevadaautumn colourriverday
Explore the lush trails and stunning mountain views in the Pyrenees, Spain.

The route

The line through Sierra Nevada (Granada), Spain - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Year-round (autumn for the colour)

Weather risks

Cool valley; snow on the peaks opposite

Best in autumn for the chestnut colour; snow up high in winter. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

A historic mining path along a river facing the high Sierra Nevada cirque

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season

Variants & turnaround

Turn around at the Cueva Secreta; continue toward the cirque

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Barranco de San Juan, near Güéjar Sierra

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Guejar Sierra; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

No permit; Sierra Nevada NP

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

The length, some rough sections, heat in summer

Emergency exits & rescue

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.

Also in Spain

Walk Vereda de la Estrella with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
Plan this hike