Description: This technical and high-altitude loop tackles the only seven summits exceeding 3,000 meters in the Ariège department (French Pyrenees). Located in the wild and mineral Montcalm Massif, this route is a quintessential Pyrenean challenge, combining steep climbs, rocky ridges, and significant vertical gain over a condensed distance.
The Route: The loop starts and ends at the Parking de l'Artigue (approx. 1,185m). The track follows a logic that links the following summits:
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Pic du Montcalm (3,077m)
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Cap de la Coume de Riufret (3,041m)
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Pique d'Estats (3,143m) – The highest point of Ariège and Catalonia.
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Pointe de Gabarró (3,115m)
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Rondo de Canalbona (3,004m)
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Verdaguer (3,125m)
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Pic de Sotllo (3,072m)
Technical Data (from GPX):
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Start/End Point: Parking de l'Artigue, Auzat, France.
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Distance: Approx. 22-24 km (depending on exact ridge navigation).
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Total Ascent: Approx. 2,500m to 2,700m D+ (Cumulative).
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Terrain: Highly technical. Expect loose scree, off-trail navigation in high-mineral zones, and scrambling sections (Class 2/3).
Why this is a premier FKT route: While the Pique d'Estats is a popular hiking destination, linking all seven 3,000m peaks in the department in a single push creates a logical, aesthetic, and grueling "Skyrunning" style challenge. It avoids the more traveled main paths to explore the rugged ridges and hidden corries of the massif, offering a true test of mountain speed and efficiency.
