- Trail name
ARGALARIO - Activity
MTB – Mountain-biking - Type of trail
Short, circular MTB trail. A ride around the El Regato district, without leaving the municipal limits of Barakaldo.
There are a great many tracks, ranging from wide lanes to narrow paths through the woods. - Technical difficulty rating
Low - Fitness rating
Low - Length
26 km - Altitude gain/loss
Total: 760 m./d+ - Estimated completion time
2 h 15 m. - Weather & observations
Can be used all year round. The whole trail is on a main track, so there is smooth going all year round.
It is important to carry lights. Near the start there are three unlit tunnels. Front lights or other lamps are needed.
Description & sights of interest
The trail starts at the Gorostiza municipal sports centre and heads through the Tellaetxe Park. Join the N4743 road, and after 300 m turn left into an old industrial estate. From there, take the Orkonera Green Trail, which runs along the former route of the Orkonera mine railway. On the first stretch the track is not fully prepared. There are three unlit tunnels, so your bike should be equipped with lights.
At the 4 km point on the Green Trail you will come to a stretch laid out with a cycle lane, a footpath, well lit tunnels and recreation areas.
At the 6.5 km point, leave the Green Trail, take the Larreineta road and then turn off onto the first woodland track, which will take you up Mount Argalario, where there are excellent 360º views. In particular, you can see Greater Bilbao and the Triano Hills.
From Mount Argalario, head towards the Peñas Negras/ Ekoetxea interpretation centre, crossing the Pico Mendibil hilltop with its telecommunications mast. The trail takes you along rough, fun-to-ride paths with spectacular views. Stop off to get your strength back at the interpretation centre cafeteria or refill your water bottle from the drinking fountain outside. From there the trail heads back down towards the finish point. Take the path at the rear of the interpretation centre. This will take you towards the Lagorriga district. From there, carry on down until you see the Loiola reservoir. On this stretch the unpaved track gives way to tarmac. The views of the reservoir at the bottom of the slope are particularly fine. From there on take the track to the final slope back down to El Regato. Watch your speed on this last stretch and respect the two-way layout so as not to bother riders coming up in the opposite direction.
