Colada de Peña Betoño and Pagogan Loop

The Colada de Peña Betoño and Pagogan Loop is classified as a moderate mountain bike ride. It demands good physical fitness and advanced riding skills, corresponding to a Single Track Scale (STS) rating of S2. This means you should expect some technical sections along the route.

The terrain is varied, featuring an irregular surface with stones, gravel tracks, and ascending sections. You'll encounter singletrack parts, many of which are shaded. Historically, it was an old cart path, so you might still find remnants of cobblestone sections.

You can expect a rich natural environment with beautiful views over the Llanada (plain). The trail winds through oak groves and offers glimpses of pine plantations. Notable highlights include the GR25 Scenic Section and the Pagogan summit.

Since the trail is a loop that conveniently starts and finishes from Vitoria, you can typically find parking within the city or at designated access points on the outskirts. Specific parking areas are not detailed, but starting from Vitoria provides flexibility.

During autumn, the scenery is particularly striking with vibrant, changing leaves, making it an excellent time to visit. However, the trail offers a rich natural environment year-round.

While the trail passes through natural areas, specific regulations regarding dogs are not provided. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

There are no specific permits or entrance fees mentioned for riding the Colada de Peña Betoño and Pagogan Loop itself, as it's a public trail. However, it's always good practice to check local regulations before your visit.

As the trail connects the urban area with surrounding forests in the Álava region, which includes parts of Montes de Vitoria, general regulations for outdoor activities apply. This typically includes staying on marked trails, respecting private property, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding mountain biking in protected areas.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails, including the Colada de Peña Betoño, Lautadako Bira, Artzaintza naturbidea, and the Vuelta al Anillo Verde/Eraztun Berdearen bira. You'll also briefly cross parts of the Vasco-Navarroaren bide berdea.

The Colada de Peña Betoño is historically significant as an ancient commercial route that linked La Rioja Alavesa with Vitoria. It was used for transporting goods like livestock, wine, and agricultural products. Today, it has been revitalized as a green corridor, connecting the city with its forested surroundings.

The Colada de Peña Betoño and Pagogan Loop typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete by mountain bike, covering a distance of approximately 28 kilometers.