Caldera ridge walk from Pico de la Nieve to Roque de los Muchachos

An insight into the hike:

This long high-level walk follows Ruta de Crestería from Pico de la Nieve to Roque de los Muchachos and back. From the parking area on Pista del Pico de la Nieve, PR LP 3 first climbs through pine forest to the caldera rim. A short spur reaches the 2,239-metre Pico de la Nieve. Views already extend across the ravines, towards Cumbre Vieja and, in clear air, Tenerife.

The constant rise and fall of the rim begins on red-and-white GR-131. It curves around Pico del Cedro and climbs to 2,321-metre Pico de Piedrallana. In spring, La Palma violets, sticky broom and several echium species flower in the high-mountain zone. Colourful pyroclastic and ash fields accompany the route over rocky tops, past Fuente Juan Diego and on to Pico de la Cruz at 2,351 metres.

Beyond the PR LP 7 and 8 junctions, the trail heads towards Mirador de los Andenes. Tajogaite, Pico Bejenado, Cumbre Vieja and deep ravines repeatedly share the panorama. From the viewpoint, a red-violet lapilli slope leads to the inner rim and Pared de Roberto. The V-shaped opening in this vertical basalt wall is among the most distinctive points on the entire ridge route.

GR-131 then crosses rough volcanic paving, passes jagged basalt walls and the observatory telescopes. Beyond Pico de Fuente Nueva, the final climb winds through broom to 2,426-metre Roque de los Muchachos. Return by the same line. Before Pico de la Nieve, a narrow shortcut descends to the car park, but it is steep and slippery and should only be considered in secure conditions.

The 20.5 kilometres and roughly 1,240 metres of ascent form a complete long mountain day. Wind, intense sun, cold and cloud can alternate rapidly on the open rim. Shade is almost absent and sensible escape options are few. Add Espigón del Roque only with ample time. A pre-dawn start, warm layers, sun and wind protection and plenty of water are crucial. Check road access, summit weather and closures immediately beforehand through Sunhikes and official sources.