With temperatures warming up, the earth oozing water and the trees with new shoots, going on a hiking route around Madrid is almost a must-do springtime plan. The rivers of the region, such as the Guadarrama, the Jarama or the Henares are usually overflowing and the reservoirs are almost at 100%, so it is also the time to visit the banks and walk through the wetlands. Apart from autumn, spring is the best time to get to know the biodiversity of the Community.
Water Trail in El Escorial
The Senda del Agua in El Escorial is a circular route of 10.38 kilometers that unites history, nature and architecture. Its route, with a positive and negative slope of only 64 meters, makes it an accessible option for all levels, with a low difficulty and an estimated time of about five hours on foot. Historically, this route takes advantage of cattle trails and royal roads used by monarchs to connect with the Monastery of El Escorial and other important estancias such as Campillo and Monesterio, a former royal residence that is now in ruins.
In spring, the Water Trail is even more attractive. The banks of the Guadarrama River are filled with flowers such as peonies, daffodils and gamones, while the nearby fields and mountains are dressed in vibrant green. In addition, the route allows you to appreciate historical elements such as medieval bridges and ancient hydraulic systems that reflect the importance of water in the local economy.
Pontón de la Oliva Ravines
A less obvious springtime route, far from the typical green landscape with flowers, are the Cárcavas del Pontón de la Oliva. Located between Madrid and Guadalajara, they are a natural spectacle formed by the erosion of wind and rain. This fascinating landscape, compared to scenes from Mars, attracts numerous visitors every weekend who enjoy its uniqueness. They are like gigantic stalagmites and natural skyscrapers that look like something out of a movie. To get there, it is necessary to hike from the Pontón de la Oliva dam, the oldest in the region, which adds an adventurous touch to this experience.
Canencia Ecological Trail
The Senda Ecológica de Canencia, located in Puerto de Canencia, is a circular route of approximately 6.5 kilometers with a low difficulty, ideal to enjoy with the family. Its route, which lasts between 1 hour and 45 minutes and 3 hours depending on the pace, crosses a forest rich in biodiversity with protected species such as holly, yew and birch trees, as well as wild pines and melojos. During spring, the landscape is filled with a vibrant green and streams such as the Sestil show an abundant flow, offering a unique natural spectacle. The Chorrera de Mojonavalle is one of the highlights of the route, with its waterfall that descends between rocks creating a magical setting.
The starting point is the recreational area of the port, accessible by car on the M-629 road. The trail has recreational areas and stops such as the Fuente del Hornillo and the Mirador del Norte, from where you can contemplate breathtaking views of the Sierra Norte.
Campillo Lagoon
This spring route is in the Southeast Regional Park in Rivas-Vaciamadrid. The Laguna del Campillo is an artificial wetland created after the exploitation of aggregates in the basin of the Jarama River. This circular route has a length of 4.5 km and a very low difficulty. The route lasts approximately 2 hours and is perfect to enjoy the spring landscape, with flowers in bloom and migratory birds arriving in the area.
In spring, the lagoon is full of life with the arrival of waterfowl and the explosion of color of the riparian plants. It is an ideal time to observe species such as herons and ducks, while enjoying the cool microclimate created by the riparian vegetation. In addition, the route offers breathtaking views of the gypsum cliffs and the Jarama River.
Silver Forest Route
The Silver Forest Route, located in Guadarrama, is a circular route in which to get into nature and at the same time see remnants of the country’s recent history. With a length of 10.3 km and a medium difficulty, this trail is ideal for those looking for a complete experience in the Sierra de Guadarrama. The 350-meter vertical drop ensures a small challenge for beginners, while the estimated duration is 4.5 hours.
In spring, the Silver Forest is transformed into a visual spectacle. The laricio pines, with their silvery bark, gleam in the sunlight, and the undergrowth is full of life with ferns and bearberry. In addition, you can observe the remains of buildings from the Civil War and learn about the history of resin extraction in the area.