Lagunas de Peñalara Descent Route

Approach

See the Dos Hermanas Normal route to get to the start of the descent, the summit of Peñalara.

Route Description

From the top follow PR-M/SG 3 (NNE) descending lightly to the Point 2.421 m (NE), then the slope is steep to the Col 2.374 m, where the ridge is more narrow and you'll have to climb on a comb graded I+ to reach Risco de los Claveles (2.387 m). Descend to the path in a little gully and follow PR 3 to the left of pared (wall) negra de los Pájaros. That trail leaves Risco de los Claveles to the right so it's not necessary to climb that comb if you don't want. Continue on scramble towards Risco de los Pájaros (2.266 m), risen just over Laguna de los Pájaros. Pass that ridge to the right along some meadows wich form Col 2.258 m and descend to Laguna de los Pájaros (2.170 m) directly over scramble (or follow the slope to the end of the lake). There is a drinking fountain on the SW corner of Laguna. Join PR-M/SG 15 over meadows (S) to reach Cinco Lagunas. Ascend following cairns (S) to Circo de Peñalara left morraine (2.090 m), descend towards Arroyo (creek) de la Laguna, where there is a little wooden bridge and a ranger post (1.945 m). Then follow an almost horizontal trail leaving the slopes of Dos Hermanas to the right. There is a new drinking fountain in this section at approximately 1.930 m, just where the trail crosses Arroyo del Toril, it's named Fuente del Cedrón. Continue on the trail until you are in a pinewood crossing an ancient ski run of Valcotos. Reach Cobertizo del Depósito (water tank), turn left along a forest trail to Mirador (viewpoint) de la Gitana. Pass Fuente del Cubeiro to the left and reach Puerto de Cotos (1.830 m).

Laguna de Peñalara Variant

Once over Circo de Peñalara left morraine, descend W to Laguna de Peñalara (2.022 m). Continue on the left side of the lake and descend along the meadows near Arroyo de la Laguna to the ranger post (1.950 m).

Essential Gear

Crampons can be necessary on some winter days. As well take warm clothes with you, anti-blizzard mask, map and compass.

Images

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