Snow Shoe Hiking in Serra de Montgrony from Campelles

About Snow Shoe Hiking in Serra de Montgrony

This 15 km circular route is one of the best snowshoeing hikes near Ribes de Freser, starting from the quiet mountain village of Campelles in the Ripollès region of the Pyrenees. At 1299 m, Campelles sits on the slopes of the Serra de Montgrony, offering access to uncrowded winter landscapes and fresh, natural virgin snow far from the busy ski resorts.

The Serra de Montgrony (Sierra de Montgrony) stretches between the villages of Campelles, Gombrèn, Planoles, Sant Cristòfol de Toses and Castellar de n’Hug. The highest peak is Plan de Pujalts at 2056 m. This route climbs to the summit of La Covil at 2002 m, making it a fantastic medium‑difficulty snowshoe hike in the Pyrenees with wide panoramic views.

The Montgrony range is used for open grazing of the Pyrenees brown cow. Lower slopes contain red pine forests, oak groves, boxwood and beech, while the higher areas open into alpine meadows and wildflower pastures. In winter, these become quiet snowshoe trails in Catalonia, ideal for hikers seeking peaceful, natural terrain.

Campelles village Homepage

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Visiting Snow Shoe Hiking in Serra de Montgrony

Campelles is a small mountain village with a single bar‑restaurant, Cal Ras, located beside the church and town hall. It’s a great starting point for quiet winter hikes in the Pyrenees and for those looking to avoid crowded ski areas.

This route can be completed year‑round, but for reliable snow conditions the best time for snowshoeing in Ripollès is from late January to mid‑March.

Expect to spend between 5 and 8 hours completing the full circular trail.

A medium level of fitness is required. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential, as the descent can be steep and slippery. In winter, bring snowshoes and crampons or microspikes for icy sections. The total elevation gain is approximately 750 m, making this a solid moderate winter hike near Barcelona.

Hiking the Serra de Montgrony from Campelles with a Dog

This is a great option for dog‑friendly snowshoe routes in Catalonia, especially in winter when the pine forests are covered in snow. In spring and summer, the lower slopes may contain dangerous Pine Processionary Caterpillars, but in winter the risk is minimal.

If your dog enjoys snow, this is a fun and stimulating route. Just take care to prevent cold paws or ice build‑up between the pads. During winter outings I did not encounter any cattle, making this one of the safer winter hikes in the Pyrenees with a dog.

Cal Ras restaurant instagram

What to take with you for Snow Shoe Hiking in Serra de Montgrony

What to Bring in Summer

Lightweight waterproof jacket for wind and rain in the high Pyrenees
2–3 litres of water (no refill points along the route)
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and high‑factor sunscreen
Breathable hiking clothing suitable for warm temperatures
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip for rocky and uneven terrain
Snacks or a packed lunch for this full‑day Campelles circular hiking trail

What to Bring in Winter (snow conditions)

Insulated waterproof jacket and warm layers for cold alpine conditions
2–3 litres of water (no refill points along the route)
Snowshoes for deep snow on this Serra de Montgrony snowshoe route
Crampons or microspikes for icy sections
Thermal gloves, hat and neck warmer
Waterproof hiking boots suitable for snow
Headlamp in case of early winter darkness
Snacks or a packed lunch for this demanding medium‑difficulty snowshoe hike
Optional: hiking poles for stability on uneven or icy terrain

Snow Shoe Hiking in Serra de Montgrony Summary of Prices

Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Adult € 28.20 FREE Child € 28.20 FREE Notes Return train ticket to Ribes de Freser costs 18.20 Euros. Estimated taxi To campelles 10 Euros.

Getting to Snow Shoe Hiking in Serra de Montgrony

Address: Carrer del Puigmal S/N, Campelles, 17534

Campelles is located about 10 minutes by car from Ribes de Freser. Parking is available in front of the town hall or along Carrer de Puigmal. In winter, conditions vary, so carrying snow chains is recommended even if they are not always required.

If you prefer public transport, you can reach Campelles by taking the R3 Rodalies train to Ribes de Freser and then a short 10‑minute taxi ride. This makes it one of the most accessible winter hiking routes near Vall de Núria without needing a car.