Senda del Cares Map (Cares Trail) for Day Hikers

This is an overview on how to hike the Senda del Cares, or more commonly known as, the Ruta del Cares. This trail is also known as the Cares Gorge Trail, as it follows along the Cares River.

Find this epic day hike in the underrated Picos de Europa National Park in the north of Spain.  The Senda del Cares is probably the most popular day hike in the entire park and is heavily trafficked.

The Ruta del Cares hiking route connects both the León and Asturias regions of the Picos de Europa National Park Spain.

Here's how to hike the Senda del Cares trail as a day hike.

⁉️ If downloading the map, please verify that the map is correct and follows the waypoints. Oftentimes, there are daily updates to the site, map platforms, and other external issues that may cause a bug in downloading. Be mindful that this map is solely for entertainment purposes. See my full disclosure here. Always hike responsibly and respect the mountains by following a no-trace philosophy, avoid hiking alone, be conscious of the weather and personal limitations, and do not stray from the visible trail

Overview of Senda Del Cares Day Hike

• Out & Back Trail

  • Trail can be access from either Caín de Valdeón or Poncebos

• Official Trail Reference: PR-PNPE-3
• Trail Markers: White and Yellow Rectangles, signs scattered along the trail and extremely well-marked
• One- Way Mileage: Just under 7.5 miles (12 KM)
• Duration: 6 - 8 Hours, depending on fitness level
• Moderate

  • The trail is fairly easy, however, be mindful that many section of the Cares Gorge trail have no guardrail

• Senda Del Cares Day Hike Packing List
  • Picnic, snacks, and plenty of water

  • Flashlight or headlamp, for the cave section of the Cares Gorge Trail
  • Water-filter, to replenish water supply in the surrounding water canals
  • First-Aid Kit, well stocked with the essentials
  • Shoes: Trail-runners will be sufficient, or hiking boots with ankle support for long distance backpackers carrying heavy bags
  • Hiking poles if you love them

Logistics of Senda del Cares Trail

Hiking along the Senda del Cares makes for a lovely day trip in the Picos de Europa National Park. This out and back trail runs between the tiny mountain hamlets of Caín de Valdeón and Poncebos. Most hikers choose to access this hike from Poncebos Asturias, via the village of Las Arenas de Cabrales and finish in Caín.

However, if you have access to a car and don't plan on doing any other hikes from Poncebos Asturias, Caín de Valdeón is a more desirable starting point.

Where Should You Start the Ruta del Cares ?

Caín de Valdeón is a great place to start if you only plan on hiking the Cares Gorge in the Picos de Europa. It's easy to find parking for the Ruta del Cares next to the trailhead in Cain. Secondly, in my humble opinion, the section of the trail is much more adventurous and interesting near Caín de Valdeón. This means, if you don't make it all the way to Poncebos you are still experiencing the "intrepid" section of the trail.

Alternatively, if planning on doing more hiking in the Picos de Europa, start the Ruta del Cares in Poncebos Asturias. Some of the best hiking trails in the Picos de Europa start from Poncebos Asturias. Also, Poncebos has easy access to some of the top Asturias villages in the mountains that can be reached with ease by public transportation, or hiking trails.

Senda del Cares Path Caín de Valdeón to Poncebos

The trail follows along the Rio Cares and the stunning canyon. Near Caíns, expect to pass through caves, cross over bridges and walk the path with jovial goats. This section is much more narrow with lots of waterfalls and steep drop-offs. Remember, there really aren't guardrails, so this can make the trail feel a little intimidating.

Finally, as you move closer to Poncebos, the gorge widens and there are epic views of the towering limestone mountains and unique rock formations. Look for incredible natural monuments and even some ruins.

More on the Senda del Cares Hike

Interested in tackling this incredible and popular day hike in the Picos de Europa National Park? Get all the logistics, helpful tips, photo inspiration and more. Follow along with this detailed and complementing blog post:

Hike the Senda del Cares (Cares Gorge) the Best Hike in the Picos de Europa

More Things to Do in the Picos de Europa like Ruta del Cares Hike

• Taste of the Picos de Europa National Park via a 4 Day Road Trip
• Walk Through an Enchanted Forest along the Ruta Rio Casaño in Asturias Spain
• Worthwhile Things to Do in Las Arenas de Cabrales Asturias
• How to Hike to Bulnes Village from Poncebos
• 8 Best Picos de Europa Hiking Trails from Poncebos Asturias
• Hike to 4 Asturias Villages in the Picos de Europa in 1 Day