Camí dels Carboners and Sant Miquel de Solterra Trail

The trail combines two distinct experiences. The Sant Miquel de Solterra section is generally considered easy to moderate, with a wide, well-marked path for the first 3 km, becoming narrower and steeper in the final kilometer. It traverses lush deciduous forests. The Camí dels Carboners section is rated moderate, featuring varied terrain including forest tracks, narrow trails, and river crossings via wooden footbridges. Some parts can be complex with steep slopes and potentially slippery rocks, even requiring hands for scrambling in riverbeds.

This hike, covering approximately 15.1 kilometers, typically takes around 4 hours and 26 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace, stops for views, and trail conditions.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on both sections of the trail. However, due to some challenging sections on the Camí dels Carboners, including steep slopes and river crossings, it's important to consider your dog's agility and endurance. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.

The trail offers several notable sights. On the Sant Miquel de Solterra section, the summit provides extraordinary 360-degree panoramic views of the Montseny massif, the Pyrenees, and the plain of La Selva. You'll also see the distinctive wrought-iron cross, earning it the nickname 'Sant Miquel de les Formigues'. Along the Camí dels Carboners, you can enjoy several waterfalls like Sant Martí Waterfall, Salt de Mas Clavé, and La Gorga Plana Waterfall, as well as the unique The Holed Rock.

The Sant Miquel de Solterra section is generally considered suitable for families with children due to its easy to moderate difficulty and well-signposted path. However, the Camí dels Carboners section is not recommended for children or individuals with reduced mobility due to its more complex terrain, steep slopes, and required river crossings.

Autumn is often recommended for hiking this trail, especially for the Sant Miquel de Solterra section, as it's when the unique winged ants (Formigues) appear near the summit. Spring and early summer also offer pleasant conditions with lush vegetation. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change, especially at higher elevations or near rivers.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Camí dels Carboners and Sant Miquel de Solterra Trail or to access the surrounding Les Guilleries region. The route is situated within the protected Natura 2000 Network and PEIN zone, so hikers are expected to follow responsible outdoor ethics, such as staying on marked paths and packing out all trash.

Specific parking details for the exact trailhead are not provided, but the trail is often accessed from towns like Sant Hilari de Sacalm or Osor. For public transport, you would typically look for bus services to these towns. From there, you might need to walk or arrange local transport to reach the specific starting point of the trail.

Yes, this route intersects with several other official trails. Significant portions of it overlap with the Via cicloturística InterCatalunya (53% of the route), BTT la Selva - 11. El Soler (47%), and various segments of the Camí dels Carboners itself. You'll also find smaller sections that coincide with the Carretera del Soler.

Yes, the nearby towns of Sant Hilari de Sacalm and Osor offer various amenities. In Sant Hilari de Sacalm, you can find restaurants and accommodation options. Osor also provides cafes, pubs, and hotels. These towns are good places to refuel or stay overnight before or after your hike.

Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, it's advisable to bring sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate clothing layers for changing weather conditions. Trekking poles can be helpful for the steeper and potentially slippery sections, especially on the Camí dels Carboners. A map or GPS device is also recommended, although the Sant Miquel de Solterra section is well-signposted.