Cerro Gatón: Driving the steep 4x4 track in Sierra de la Demanda
Reaching an elevation of 1,911m (6,269ft) above sea level, Cerro Gatón is one of the most prominent peaks in the Sierra de la Demanda, located in the autonomous community of La Rioja, Spain. The road to the summit is a demanding mountain track that offers a wild, high-altitude experience, far removed from the paved regional networks.
| Road facts: Cerro Gatón | |
|---|---|
| Location | La Rioja, Spain (Sierra de la Demanda) |
| Elevation | 1,911 m (6,269 ft) |
| Length | 9.9 km (6.1 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 681 m |
| Average Gradient | 6.87% |
Where is Cerro Gatón?
The peak is situated in the heart of the Demanda range, acting as a massive natural balcony over the upper Oja and Najerilla valleys. The climb begins at the Collado Garcimarra, a pass on the LR-113 road that marks the boundary between La Rioja and Burgos. From this point, the track leaves the broken asphalt behind and strikes upward into the alpine tundra. The isolation of the summit is absolute, providing a 360-degree view that, on clear days, spans from the Ebro Valley to the high peaks of the Picos de Urbión.
Is the road to Cerro Gatón unpaved?
Yes, the road to the summit is totally unpaved and requires a 4x4 vehicle with high ground clearance. This is not a route for the faint-hearted or those scared of heights; the trail is pretty steep and often runs along exposed ridges with significant drops on either side. The surface is composed of loose shale and mountain soil, which can change character instantly with the weather. Wet conditions are particularly hazardous here, turning the track into a muddy and slippery trap that makes driving tough even for experienced off-roaders.
How long is the road to Cerro Gatón?
Starting from Collado Garcimarra, the road to the summit is 9.9 km (6.1 miles) long. Over this distance, the track overcomes an elevation gain of 681 meters. While the average gradient is 6.87%, the climb is irregular, featuring several technical ramps that feel much steeper due to the loose rocks and lack of traction. Maintaining a steady momentum is key to reaching the top, especially in the final kilometers where the trail narrows and the wind can become a significant factor, pushing against the side of the vehicle on the most exposed sections.
Is the road to Cerro Gatón open in winter?
Due to its elevation of nearly 2,000 meters, the road to Cerro Gatón is usually impassable from November to May. Heavy snowdrifts, often fueled by strong winds, can bury the track under several meters of snow, while ice patches hide under the shale surface in the early spring. Even in summer, the weather in the Sierra de la Demanda is notoriously unpredictable; sudden mountain storms can cause rapid erosion on the muddy sections. Always check the weather forecast and ensure your vehicle is equipped with recovery gear before attempting this high-intensity Riojan climb.
Pic: Casa Del mayorazgo