The Schmidt Trail is one of the most emblematic and accessible historical hiking routes in the Sierra de Guadarrama, located just an hour and a half from Madrid. Since its design in 1926 by the Austrian Eduardo Schmidt-partner of the Real Sociedad de Alpinismo de Peñalara-this trail has been a reference point for hikers, and in a few months it is preparing to celebrate its centennial.
The route was originally marked to link the Puerto de Navacerrada with the Peñalara social chalet in Cercedilla, crossing lush pine forests, currently a ski slope and areas of medium altitude (up to 1,900 meters), which makes the route simple and very suitable for families looking for an easy hike, except when it snows excessively. The classic route of the Schmidt Trail covers about 7 km in three hours, although the extended circular version can reach 15 km and four and a half hours of walking, crossing mythical points such as the Pradera de Navalazor, the Fuente de la Fuenfría and Collado Ventoso, before returning along the Carril del Gallo.
The Schmidt Trail: the almost century-old route
The path is perfectly signposted by yellow markings on the trunks of the imposing Scots pines, and combines the beauty of the Pinar de la Umbría pine forest with views of the Siete Picos massif. It is considered one of the best preserved and most frequented trails by hikers, thanks in part to its accessibility, in addition to the ski slopes that occasionally open during the winter. In technical terms, its gradient is moderate (350 meters) and the recommended starting point is in Puerto de Navacerrada, well connected by road and train from Madrid.
In addition to its scenic value, the Schmidt Trail stands out for its legacy: in October 2026 it will be 100 years old as an official trail, a legacy of the first great hike in the mountains of Madrid. The Royal Peñalara Mountaineering Society and local associations are expected to celebrate the anniversary with themed routes, historical interpretations and a multitude of outreach activities.