Punta d’Icún: Driving the 9.6% 4x4 climb in the Pyrenees of Huesca
Located in the province of Huesca, Aragon, Punta d’Icún is a high mountain peak reaching an elevation of 2,069m (6,788ft) above sea level. Situated in the heart of the Pyrenees, near the border with France, this summit is a hidden challenge for off-roaders, known for its extreme verticality and its exposed position above the Tena Valley.
| Road facts: Punta d’Icún (Cerro de las Canales) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Huesca, Aragon, Spain (Pyrenees) |
| Elevation | 2,069 m (6,788 ft) |
| Length | 9 km (5.6 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 868 m |
| Average Gradient | 9.64% |
Where is Punta d’Icún?
The peak, also referred to as Cerro de las Canales or Punta d'as Canals, stands in a prominent position within the Aragonese Pyrenees. The route starts from the small, isolated village of Yosa de Sobremonte. From the summit, the geography offers a dramatic 360-degree panorama of the high granite peaks of the central Pyrenees, serving as a silent watchtower over the deep valleys that lead toward the French frontier. Its isolated nature makes it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the more crowded tracks of the region.
Is the road to Punta d’Icún unpaved?
Yes, the road to the summit is totally unpaved and requires a 4x4 vehicle with high ground clearance. The track is a classic Pyrenean forest road, consisting of loose gravel, large limestone rocks, and sections of natural earth. One of the main challenges here is the weather; high winds blow all year long, and the wind is usually quite strong at the mountain areas near the crest. These gusts can make driving precarious, especially on the more narrow and exposed segments of the trail where there are no safety barriers against the steep slopes.
How long is the road to Punta d’Icún?
Starting from Yosa de Sobremonte, the road to the summit is 9 km (5.6 miles) long. While the distance might seem manageable, the climb is exceptionally grueling: over these 9 kilometers, the track tackles an elevation gain of 868 meters. This results in a brutal average gradient of 9.64%, placing it among the steepest unpaved climbs in the province of Huesca. The ascent is relentless, with very few flat sections, requiring steady throttle control and low-range gearing to maintain traction on the loose surface while battling the constant incline.
Is the road to Punta d’Icún open in winter?
Due to its high elevation over 2,000 meters, the road is usually impassable from October to June. Heavy snowfalls are common in the Sobremonte area, and the steep 9.6% grade becomes a death trap of ice and slush during the winter months. Even in the summer, the weather can turn instantly; mountain storms can cause rapid erosion on the muddy sections of the road. Before attempting this high-intensity climb, always check the weather forecast for the Alto Gállego region and ensure your vehicle is fully prepared for an isolated and technical mountain expedition.
Pic: Santi Usabiaga