
Where Is Pico Gallinero?
Spain, europe
3.2 km
2,613 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're kicking around the province of Huesca in northern Spain, you HAVE to check out Pico Gallinero.
This ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a 3.2km (2 mile) climb up to a whopping 2,613m (8,572ft) above sea level! Yeah, it's one of the highest roads in the whole country.
Now, here's the deal: this baby is unpaved and seriously steep, averaging a 14.5% gradient. A 4x4 is a MUST. It's generally closed to private vehicles except during the summer, primarily used for ski lift maintenance.
Trust me, the views from the top are worth the effort. You'll be gazing out over the gorgeous Aragonese Pyrenees. Just take it slow, watch your tires, and get ready for an unforgettable off-road experience!
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 3.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,613 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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