Ultra Trail Guara Somontano: heat management and the Aragonese terrain
When I signed up for the Guara Somontano Trail 2025, I knew it was going to be a tough challenge. However, I underestimated how brutal the heat and rocky sections could be, even in October. This race through the heart of Aragón isn’t just a test of endurance — it’s a real battle of strategy, patience, and body awareness. Today, I want to share what worked for me and what I would do differently, in case you’re planning to toe the line in Alquézar this year.
What makes the Guara Somontano Trail unique
First off, the Guara Somontano Trail 2025 is not just another 100K mountain race. Spanning 102 kilometers with around 5,400 meters of elevation gain, it offers everything from canyon views to technical ridges, and sun-exposed plateaus that can feel like ovens even in autumn. What’s deceptive is that the October date lulls you into expecting cooler conditions — but the Aragonese sun still bites hard, especially mid-afternoon.
Moreover, the terrain is incredibly varied. Some sections are smooth and runnable, while others are loose, sharp, and demand constant focus. You’re not only battling the heat; you’re constantly managing foot placement to avoid injury. Therefore, heat and terrain management are the two pillars of success here.
Train for heat — even in the fall
It might sound counterintuitive, but training for heat is crucial. I live in a temperate area, so I didn’t expect 30°C temperatures in mid-October. That was my first mistake. As a result, I started my heat training too late. For those preparing for the Guara Somontano Trail 2025, I strongly recommend incorporating at least two to three sauna sessions per week in the final month. Alternatively, do your long runs overdressed during warm midday hours.
In my experience, the heat really took its toll around kilometer 45, during a long climb exposed to the sun with no wind. The sweat was pouring, my salt levels dropped, and I had to slow down significantly. Fortunately, I had practiced drinking warm fluids and staying consistent with electrolyte intake, which helped me bounce back.
Gear that saved my race
Next, let’s talk about equipment. Given the rocky and dry nature of the trail, your feet are going to take a beating. In my case, I chose a pair of shoes with a rock plate and a slightly wider toe box to accommodate foot swelling. That was a game-changer. I also taped the underside of my toes and used anti-chafing cream in key areas, which prevented blisters throughout the 20+ hours on trail.
For sun protection, I wore a white cap with a neck flap, sunglasses with good UV protection, and a high-SPF zinc-based cream. In exposed stretches — which are numerous along the Guara Somontano Trail 2025 — the sun bounces off the rocks and hits you from below, so don’t skip your sunscreen, even if it’s early morning.
Nutrition: listen to your gut
During ultras, your stomach is your second brain. That becomes even more true when heat is involved. I kept my strategy simple: alternating between solid and liquid calories, and using my watch alarm to remind me to eat every 40 minutes.
I packed salty snacks like olives and tortilla chunks in zip bags, and took them out during climbs to eat slowly. In contrast, I saved gels and chews for smoother descents. This rhythm allowed me to keep my energy stable without overwhelming my stomach.
Also, the aid stations at the Guara Somontano Trail 2025 are well-stocked, but don’t rely on them for your main plan. Bring what works for you, and treat the stations as a supplement, not the foundation.
Technical terrain — pacing and poles
One of the biggest mistakes I saw (and almost made myself) was going too fast in the runnable early sections. The adrenaline of starting from Alquézar is intense, and the views are surreal. Still, resist the urge to blast those early downhills — the real test begins later.
The most technical part, in my opinion, starts around kilometer 70. You’re already tired, the sun may have drained you, and now you’re facing descents full of loose rock and sharp edges. Poles were a huge help here, especially for managing fatigue and keeping balance on tricky switchbacks. I practiced with them for months, and I recommend doing the same.
Interestingly, while many runners collapsed physically around this point, others stayed strong simply by managing pace and effort better earlier in the race. That’s the big takeaway: don’t waste your legs when the terrain is easy — you’ll need them later.
Night running: don’t underestimate it
Although the race starts early, most runners, including myself, finish well into the night. For this reason, your headlamp setup matters. I used one main lamp with 800 lumens on medium setting, paired with a smaller backup in my vest. The shadows on rocky terrain can be misleading, so depth perception is key.
By the time I reached the final 15K, I was both physically tired and mentally foggy. But having a reliable light allowed me to move with confidence, especially when descending steep scree near Radiquero. Make sure to test your headlamp for long hours before race day.
Hydration strategy in a dry climate
The Aragonese landscape is beautiful but unforgiving. The dry air pulls moisture fast from your skin and lungs, even if you’re not sweating buckets. That’s why I added electrolytes to every soft flask, not just one. I rotated flavors to avoid taste fatigue, and also packed a small salt capsule every two hours.
At one point, I was so focused on drinking that I forgot to eat. That nearly caused a bonk, so I learned that hydration and nutrition must go hand in hand. Also, several runners ran out of water between aid stations. I carried an extra 500ml soft flask folded in my vest for this very reason, and it saved me during the long stretch after Rodellar.
Mental strategies for the long haul
Perhaps the most underrated aspect of finishing the Guara Somontano Trail 2025 is the mental game. For me, the hardest part wasn’t the heat or the rocks — it was hour 17, in the dark, when I was alone, sore, and questioning my choices.
What helped me was breaking the race into chunks. I never thought about “finishing 102K”; instead, I focused on getting to the next checkpoint, then to the next descent, then to a known landmark. Also, I carried a small printed note from my daughter in my vest. Every time I touched it, I remembered why I signed up in the first place.
My final thoughts
Looking back, finishing the Guara Somontano Trail 2025 was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It tested every part of me — physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you’re preparing for this race, respect the heat, train for the terrain, and prepare your mind just as much as your legs.
It’s a journey that will push you beyond your limits. But if you manage your pace, take care of your body, and respect the land, you’ll cross the finish line stronger than ever — and with a memory you’ll carry for a lifetime.
