Pico Mágina Ascent from Huelma
Official route to Pico Mágina (2,167 m), the highest summit in Jaén province, from the Huelma side of Sierra Mágina Natural Park: about 10 km each way, 980 m of ascent, MIDE effort 4.
About Pico Mágina Ascent from Huelma
Sierra Mágina Natural Park is the third-highest massif in Andalucía after Sierra Nevada and the Sierra de Baza, and Pico Mágina (2,167 m) is the highest point in Jaén province. The official Junta route, Subida a Pico Mágina y Miramundos, also reaches Miramundos (2,077 m). Its karst uplands shelter endemic plants such as Viola cazorlensis, and ibex are often seen near the tops.
The path starts at a hairpin by a farmhouse on the track that leaves the A-324 at km 6.5 on the Huelma–Cambil road, just past the CEDEFO forest-fire base. The first 4 km zigzag up through planted pine, then 1.5 km of pasture with junipers along the Barranco de las Salinas lead past the stone shelter of Tinada de la Cruz. A path then climbs the Barranco de las Covatillas, with a dry-stone shepherds' hut, to the Puerto de Bolos and turns north over stony limestone. Keep left at the Miramundos fork and climb rocky steps past a restored snow pit to the summit crest. Return the same way.
The route is free and needs no permit. In winter snow, ice and wind make it a serious mountain day, and in summer there is no shade. There is no drinking water, so carry 3 litres; mobile coverage is patchy (emergency 112). It is for fit, experienced hikers.
The best months are April to June, when the endemic flowers bloom, and September to November. Start early with poles, a windproof and a map or GPS track. Add Miramundos on a clear day.
Pico Mágina Ascent from Huelma in pictures
What you’ll find
- Car parkParkingFree
- Free accessFree visitFree
- HikingWalking routeFree
- Linear routeOne-way trailFree
- Picnic areaPicnicFree
- ViewpointScenic viewpointFree
Nearby places to visit
On the far side of the massif, the village of Pegalajar is home to the family mill Aceites Melgarejo (16 km), known for its picual oils and tastings. Climbers can head to Tajos del Canjorro Climbing (28 km) on the edge of Jaén city for winter sport routes. Across the provincial border in Granada, the show cave Cueva de las Ventanas (28 km) at Píñar runs guided visits through its chambers. The capital, with Jaén Cathedral (29 km) and its tapas bars, is the nearest city for an evening after the climb.
Pico Mágina Ascent from Huelma at a glance
Category
Sports Outdoor adventures
Location
Sierra Mágina, Jaén
Town
Huelma
Address
Trailhead on the track off the A-324 at km 6.5 (Huelma–Cambil), past the CEDEFO fire station 23560
Opening hours
Open all year. Winter conditions (snow, ice, wind) need mountain experience; in summer start at dawn, as there is no shade.
Prices
Free; no permit needed. Roadside parking at the trailhead.
Checked 5 Nov 2026 on the official website. Times and prices can change, so confirm before you go.
Tours nearby
Guided tours that visit Jaén province.
