Cancho La Muela and Navamuño Reservoir Loop

This mountain bike route is approximately 26 km (16 miles) long and has an elevation gain of about 611 meters (2,000 feet). Komoot estimates the duration to be around 2 hours and 30 minutes of active riding time. However, given its 'difficult' rating, plan for additional time for breaks, enjoying the scenery, and navigating challenging sections.

This route is rated as difficult for mountain biking. While some sections may be on dirt/gravel roads or doubletrack, the mountainous terrain and significant elevation gain mean you should expect demanding ascents and descents. Riders will need very good fitness and advanced riding skills, and may even need to push their bike on certain portions.

The terrain is varied, typical of the Sierra de Candelario. You'll encounter a mix of dirt and gravel roads, doubletrack, and potentially some paved or asphalt sections. Expect trails winding through extensive forests of oak, pine, and chestnut trees, with some sections described as 'alpine' or 'natural' suggesting varied ground conditions.

The route offers stunning natural beauty. Key highlights include the summit of Cancho La Muela, providing expansive views, and the picturesque Navamuño Dam (Embalse de Navamuño). You'll also cycle through beautiful Scots pine forests and enjoy views of the Cuerpo del Hombre river valley.

The Sierra de Candelario region is best enjoyed in spring, early summer, or autumn. These seasons generally offer more moderate temperatures and stable weather conditions, which are ideal for a difficult mountain bike route. Avoid peak summer heat and potential winter snow or ice at higher elevations.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for mountain biking within the Espacio Natural de la Sierra Candelario. However, it's always advisable to check local regulations before your visit, as rules can change. Always respect protected areas and stay on marked trails.

While the Espacio Natural de la Sierra Candelario is generally welcoming to dogs, specific rules may apply to mountain biking with pets. If you bring your dog, ensure it is well-behaved, under control, and on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or other trail users. Always pack out any waste.

Specific parking information for this exact circular variant (M06) is not detailed. However, for routes in the Sierra de Candelario, trailheads often have designated parking areas. It's recommended to research parking options near the start of the loop, possibly in or near Navamuño or other access points to the Espacio Natural, before your trip.

For a difficult, 26 km mountain bike route with significant elevation, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit (including spare tubes/patch kit, pump, multi-tool), a first-aid kit, and appropriate clothing layers. A helmet is essential. Given the varied terrain and potential for technical sections, consider knee and elbow pads. A GPS device with the route loaded is also highly recommended.

Yes, the route utilizes and intersects with other paths in the region. For instance, sections of this circular variant overlap with parts of the official trails like "[CIMA CC12] La Garganta (Collado de las Angosturas) * Baños de Montemayor" and "[CIMA CC12] La Garganta (Collado de las Angosturas) * Hervás".

As indicated by its name, "variante circular," this is a circular or loop trail. This means you will start and end at the same point without retracing your steps, offering a continuous and diverse riding experience.