Puerto de La Sía por Picón Blanco – circular por los puertos pasiegos

This is a difficult mountain bike ride, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills. You should be prepared for technical sections, with some parts rated STS S3-S6, and very steep ramps where pushing your bike may be necessary. The ascent to Picón Blanco, especially from Espinosa de los Monteros, features an average gradient of 9.1% with ramps up to 18%.

The route offers diverse terrain typical of the Pasiego mountains. You'll encounter dirt tracks, forest paths, and trails winding through natural surroundings. While some sections are well-maintained, be ready for very steep ramps and aggressive terrain, particularly on the climb to Picón Blanco.

You'll experience the picturesque Valles Pasiegos with lush meadows, dense beech and oak forests, and traditional villages. Key highlights include the stunning vistas from the Alto del Portillo de La Sía (1,234m) and the spectacular panoramic views from the summit of Picón Blanco (1,521m). On clear days, you can see the Cantabrian Sea and even the distant Picos de Europa. The summit also features abandoned military installations.

The route is approximately 51 km long with over 1,800 meters of elevation gain. It typically takes around 5 hours and 26 minutes of riding time to complete, but plan for longer to account for breaks and enjoying the views.

The best time to ride this trail is generally during the warmer, drier months to ensure clearer paths and the best panoramic views from Picón Blanco. Avoid periods of heavy rain or snow, as conditions can become very challenging and visibility may be poor.

Specific parking information for the start of this circular route is not detailed, but you can typically find parking in nearby towns like Espinosa de los Monteros, which serves as a common access point for the region's trails. Always check local regulations before parking.

While dogs are generally allowed on many trails in the Pasiego mountains, it's crucial to keep them under control, preferably on a leash, especially when passing through traditional grazing areas or near wildlife. Given the route's difficulty and technical sections, consider if it's suitable for your dog's fitness and paw health.

No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to ride this mountain bike trail. However, always respect private property and local regulations, especially when passing through rural areas or near traditional cabins.

Given the route's difficulty and length, you should bring a well-maintained mountain bike suitable for technical terrain, a helmet, appropriate protective gear, plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools (like a GPS device or the komoot app). Layers of clothing are also recommended due to changing mountain weather.

No, this route is not suitable for beginners or families. It is rated as a 'difficult' mountain bike ride requiring 'very good fitness' and 'advanced riding skills' due to its steep gradients, technical sections, and significant elevation gain. There are sections where pushing your bike may be necessary.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with the Ruta de Carlos V, [CIMA CA08] Asón - La Sía, Ruta 43 Merindad de Montija, [CIMA BU09] Picón Blanco, [CIMA BU10] La Sía, and the Camino de Bustihierro, among others.

The ascents, particularly to Picón Blanco, are notoriously challenging. Be prepared for sustained climbs with gradients up to 18%. Pacing yourself is key, and don't hesitate to dismount and push your bike on the steepest or most technical ramps. Ensure your bike is in excellent condition with appropriate gearing for steep ascents.