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Pico Aneto
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At an altitude of 3404 meters, Pico Aneto is the absolute pinnacle of the Pyrenees and the third-highest elevation in all of Spain, following Mount Teide in Tenerife and Mulhacén in Andalusia. This majestic peak is located in the Maladeta massif within the Aragonese province of Huesca, close to the French border. The mountain, composed of extremely hard granite, is renowned not only for its impressive height but also for the Aneto Glacier on its northern flank. This is the largest remaining glacier in Spain, although it is shrinking dramatically due to advancing global warming and is being closely monitored by scientists. The ascent to the summit is considered a classic challenge for mountaineers. The greatest hurdle on the standard route is the notorious "Pas des Mahomet" (Step of Muhammad), an extremely narrow, exposed rock ridge just before the actual summit, which drops off steeply for hundreds of meters on both sides.
- Location: Galicia, Spain
- Top sights: Tuca de Tempestats / Tuca Gran de Llosás · Tuca d'el Cabo de Barrancs · Tuc de Molières
- Nearby: Cerler (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | -1 | 2 | 5 | 9 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 12 | 8 | 3 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 60 | 48 | 58 | 72 | 76 | 51 | 42 | 42 | 50 | 61 | 70 | 50 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching the starting points for the climb generally involves traveling through remote valleys and securing a spot on local shuttle buses where permitted. From the end of the road, the only way forward is a strenuous trek upward into the massifs.
Best season
The safest conditions for navigating the extreme altitude occur briefly during July and August, when daytime weather is moderately predictable. Outside of late summer, deep snowpacks and severe winds make the ascent extremely treacherous.
Terrain & paths
The route encompasses a formidable combination of steep rocky trails, massive chaotic boulder fields, and a mandatory crossing of a permanent glacier. It demands constant vigilance and significant technical scrambling capabilities from climbers.
What to bring
Anyone attempting the peak must carry ice axes, crampons, and ropes, regardless of the apparent summer warmth in the valleys below. Sturdy high-altitude boots and completely windproof outer layers are non-negotiable for survival near the top.
Parking
Dedicated parking zones are usually situated near designated mountain huts or specific lower-elevation entry gates. Due to intense popularity among alpine enthusiasts, arriving very early in the morning is essential to secure a spot.
Safety
The glacier traverse involves crossing areas with deeply hidden crevasses, meaning unguided or poorly equipped groups face immense, potentially fatal risks. Altitude sickness and sudden whiteout conditions are real threats near the summit ridge.
Time needed
For the vast majority of fit climbers, a standard round trip from the nearest mountain refuge takes between ten and twelve continuous hours. Extended preparation, acclimatization rests, and descent times must be carefully factored into the schedule.
Geography
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Pico Aneto (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Aneto the highest mountain in the Pyrenees?
Yes, at 3,404 meters, it is the highest peak in the Pyrenees range.
Do you need special equipment?
Yes, crampons and an ice axe are needed to cross the glacier.
What is the 'Pas de Mahomet'?
A narrow, exposed ridge just before the main summit.
Where does the normal route start?
Usually from the Renclusa refuge in the Benasque valley.
Is there still a glacier there?
Yes, but it is shrinking very rapidly due to climate change.
Pico Aneto: where is it located?
Pico Aneto is located in Galicia, Spain.
Pico Aneto: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tuca de Tempestats / Tuca Gran de Llosás, Tuca d'el Cabo de Barrancs, Tuc de Molières.
Pico Aneto: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Pico Aneto: why is it worth visiting?
At an altitude of 3404 meters, Pico Aneto is the absolute pinnacle of the Pyrenees and the third-highest elevation in all of Spain, following Mount Teide in Tenerife and Mulhacén in Andalusia.
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