From Collado Villalba to the pass it’s 11.4 miles (18.4 km) at an average 5.3%, from 2,920 ft (890 m) to 6,096 ft (1,858 m). It’s a long, fairly steady climb with no big walls: the steepest pitch is around 10.7%. The three databases we checked agree almost to the meter (18.3-18.5 km and 967-971 m of gain).
What the climb is like
You ride up the M-601 and through the town of Navacerrada. The first 6 miles (10 km), until past the town, are the least pleasant: a narrow road, guardrails tight against the pavement and heavy weekend traffic. After that the road enters the pine forest, gets much prettier, and the grade holds between 5% and 8% all the way to the pass. At the top, at 6,096 ft (1,858 m), the track to Bola del Mundo begins for anyone who wants to finish with 1.9 miles (3 km) at 12%.
We don’t publish a segment-by-segment profile because we couldn’t find two sources that split the climb the same way.
Other sides
- Cerceda: 9.3 to 11 miles (15 to 17.7 km), depending on where you start.
- Guadarrama: 10.7 miles (17.2 km).
- La Granja de San Ildefonso (Segovia): 10.4 miles (16.8 km) at 4.2%.
- Rascafría, via the Puerto de Cotos: 14.3 miles (23 km) at 3.1%.
Vuelta history
Navacerrada is one of the most-used climbs in the Vuelta a España: about 47 times since 1941, according to CyclingCols. Julián Berrendero and Federico Martín Bahamontes both led over the top here. In 2022 it hosted the finish of the penultimate stage, won by Richard Carapaz, who sealed the mountains jersey. In 2025 the race crossed it twice, by two different sides, before finishing on Bola del Mundo.
When to go, water and traffic
The pass sits at nearly 6,200 ft (1,900 m) and has a ski area: there’s usually snow in winter, so the good season runs from spring to fall. Start early, especially on weekends, to avoid traffic on the M-601. The towns on the way up (Collado Villalba, Navacerrada) have fountains and cafés; at the pass there are ski-area facilities.
What gearing to use
This is a climb for holding a rhythm: anyone in decent shape can get up it on a 34x28. At 3 W/kg (watts per kilo of body weight) and 159 lb (72 kg), you’ll ride about 8.7 mph (14 km/h) on 6% and 6.8 mph (11 km/h) on 8%; on a 34x28 that’s 90 and 71 rpm. If you plan to continue to Bola del Mundo, fit a 34x34. Check your combinations in the gear calculator.
Tips
- Ride the first 6 miles (10 km) single file with a rear light: it’s the busiest stretch.
- Combine it with Cotos and La Morcuera for a classic Guadarrama loop.
- Bring layers for the descent: the pass can be 18 °F (10 °C) colder than Madrid.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to climb Navacerrada from Collado Villalba?
A 159 lb (72 kg) rider on a 21 lb (9.5 kg) bike takes about 1 h 12 min at 3 W/kg (216 W), 1 h 25 min at 2.5 W/kg and 57 min at 4 W/kg. Work out your own time with your weight and power in the calculator on this page.
What is the hardest side of Navacerrada?
The Madrid side (Collado Villalba or Cerceda) has the most climbing; from La Granja (Segovia) it's 10.4 miles (16.8 km) at 4.2%. From Rascafría, via Cotos, it's 14.3 miles (23 km) at 3.1%.
How many times has the Vuelta climbed Navacerrada?
About 47 times since 1941, according to CyclingCols. In 2022 it hosted a stage finish, won by Richard Carapaz.
Is there a lot of traffic on Navacerrada?
Yes, especially on weekends on the first 6 miles (10 km) from Collado Villalba, which are narrow with guardrails right against the road.