Sierra Nevada from Granada: ski and trails

Sierra Nevada from Granada is not one plan. Pradollano, summer lifts, Veleta and Mulhacén need different decisions: a resort day and a high-mountain day are two plans best kept apart.

Choose your kind of Sierra Nevada day

Preparing for the 2026/27 snow season

Sierra Nevada is already preparing the 2026/27 season. If you are going to ski, do not confuse an opening event date with confirmation that runs and slopes are open. Check the snow report, operating lifts, road and weather conditions at the resort before heading up. Pradollano and an ascent of Veleta or Mulhacén are activities of different demands.

Before booking or heading up, check current information at sierranevada.es.

How to prepare a winter resort day

1. Snow report and lifts: confirm which runs and lifts are open on the day of your visit, not just the season-opening date.
2. Road and access: check the A-395 status and any chain or restriction requirements before leaving Granada.
3. Pass and rental: buy or book through official channels and compare the season promotion if you plan to return.
4. Altitude: Pradollano sits above 2,000 m; hydrate, protect your skin and plan for cold and wind even when Granada is mild.
5. Return: set a time to head down; dusk and fresh snow change the drive.

The key distinction: Veleta is not Mulhacén

The north side begins at Hoya de la Mora and heads towards Posiciones del Veleta. Mulhacén is normally approached from the south side via Capileira and Alto del Chorrillo. There is no short walk from Hoya de la Mora to Mulhacén; confusing these routes is a safety issue.

Getting there from Granada

For Pradollano, check current transport and road conditions just before leaving; timetables and prices change with the season. For Capileira and the south side, check park access and the availability of the interpretation service separately. Avoid planning around an old bus timetable: confirm the day's departure with the operator.

Sierra Nevada in summer

The resort publishes a specific summer calendar. In 2026 its summer lifts were announced from 11 July to 23 August; those dates should not be extrapolated to another year. Always check the official summer calendar to see what is open.

What to take

• Warm layers and sun protection.
• Enough food and water.
• Suitable footwear and charged navigation.
• An early start and a firm return time.
• Cancel for storms, strong wind, fog, snow or an underprepared group.

Frequently asked questions

When does the 2026/27 ski season open?

The resort has announced an opening event for 06/12/2026, but the effective opening of runs and lifts depends on snow and on Cetursa's information. Check the snow report before booking.

Can I go up to Sierra Nevada without skiing?

Yes. Pradollano works as a mountain village, and in summer the resort publishes a lift calendar. In winter, if you are not skiing, check which services are operating that day before heading up.

Can I climb Mulhacén from Granada in one day?

It is a high-mountain activity, not a city outing. The usual approach starts in Capileira, on the south side, and needs planning; there is no short walk from Hoya de la Mora.

For a safe, city-based outing, choose Pradollano or a signposted walk that matches your level. For Mulhacén, read the Andalusian Government guidance and treat it as a high-mountain activity, not an add-on to a city break.