For a couple of years now, Aliaga and Montoro de Mezquita have been linked by a spectacular trail. This trail crosses places that, if it were not for the footbridges and bridges that have been equipped, it would be almost impossible for the general public to access.

The Guadalope River rises in the Sierra de Gúdar, near Villarroya de los Pinares and soon becomes an energetic river that, in its upper course, between the municipalities of Aliaga and Castellote, crosses impressive gorges protected as a Special Conservation Area (SAC) and Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA). The trail crosses two Habitats of Community Interest with Salix alba and Populus alba gallery forests, and calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation. The trail also crosses two important Sites of Geological Interest: the Geological Park of Aliaga and the Natural Monument of the Organs of Montoro. On this trail, and on all trails in general, it is necessary to walk in a certain silence, respecting the fauna that lives in the area. It is easy to see large birds of prey flying overhead, but, if you are observant, you can hear and see other more elusive species.

Both the municipality of Aliaga and the Association for the Development of Montoro de Mezquita soon saw its potential, and each with their own means, tried to make some sections of the river visitable until recently inaccessible. Later, the Government of Aragon, managed to unite these two routes and extend them to the connection with the GR 8.1. past the Organs of Montoro, for its official integration into the Network of Tourist Trails of Aragon.

In this way, a magnificent trail was created, which crosses one of the most impressive landscapes of the province of Teruel, with great geological, scenic and faunistic richness, which leaves no one indifferent.

The path along the catwalks begins!

The trail starts from the mining district of Santa Barbara and in just 2 kms reaches Aliaga. In this section you can enjoy the impressive geological environment of the town.

Leaving Aliaga through the majestic Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Zarza, the trail sneaks between the vertical walls and folds of La Aldehuela. It skirts the reservoir of the old thermal power plant and enters the amazing gorge of Hoz Mala through stretches of spectacular walkways. At the end of the canyon we reach an old flour mill, from which the valley opens up and the trail runs along tracks and paths more comfortable. It passes through the intricate place of Boca Infierno to later cross the river and continue the itinerary through a comfortable path that connects with the Straits of Valloré, where a series of structures consisting of bridges and walkways attached to the rocky outcrops that encase the channel allow to save this spectacular place to reach Montoro de Mezquita.

Now comes another very entertaining part, as the walkways, bridges and stairs follow one after another and take us from one side of the river to the other. It is another of the most beautiful sections, the walk runs between waterfalls, pools and pools that the Guadalope is creating as it makes its way through the steep gorge. After crossing the road, the trail runs at the foot of the impressive Órganos de Montoro until it reaches the strait and the connection with the GR 8.1. that will take you to Villarluengo.

Recommendations

• It is a trail to enjoy.
• It can be done in its entirety or in sections.
• Most visitors travel the route between Aliaga and Montoro, the best known, but you can return another time to enjoy Montoro to the connection with the GR 8.1 or Villarluengo, taking into account that, for the moment, you have to organize another car for the return.
• But don’t forget to come back!
• More information to organize your hiking route in the official website https://pasarelasdelguadalope.es/
• And to whet your appetite you can enjoy the promotional video of the Guadalope Footbridges.