Snow level in Central System

Climate, snowfall and avalanches in Central System

The Central System gathers several ranges: Gredos, Guadarrama, Bejar, Pena de Francia and Gata. The highest peaks are in Gredos (Almanzor 2592 m, Galana 2564 m) and Guadarrama (Penalara 2428 m, Bola del Mundo 2257 m). The snow season runs November to April, peaking in January and February. Typical snow level is 1200 to 1600 m, with frequent drops to 700-900 m in deep Atlantic storms, particularly in Guadarrama. Average snowpack on summits exceeds 1 m in February, with historical maxima around 3 m at Laguna Grande de Gredos. Avalanche risk is low to moderate, but wet snow can form slabs in the north-facing gullies of Gredos. The Central System hosts four ski resorts: Valdesqui and Navacerrada in Guadarrama, La Pinilla in Somosierra and La Covatilla in Bejar. It is the most heavily hiked range in the peninsula thanks to its proximity to Madrid, which multiplies the number of snow rescues each winter. The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and the Sierra de Gredos Regional Park protect relict alpine ecosystems. Snow feeds the Burguillo, Pinilla and Pedrezuela reservoirs, part of Madrids water supply.