Sendero Cuevas Negras

This circular trail, perfect if you're up for an intense day, combines parts of the PR-TF53 (Los Silos–Cuevas Negras–Erjos) and PR-TF54 (Erjos–Las Moradas–Los Silos). The total hike is about 18 km, usually taking between 5 and 6 hours, and has a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 1,400 m, so it's considered medium-high difficulty.

Start early in Los Silos (~100 m altitude), first climbing along Susana Street and a rural road toward the Cuevas Negras Ravine. The route from Los Silos to the hamlet of Cuevas Negras is about 3 km of cobbled terrain between laurel trees, barbusanos, and ancient walls. Here you connect with PR-TF53.1 if you want to detour to Tierra del Trigo, but continue along PR-TF53 along the El Salto riverbed until you reach Erjos, located at about 1,000 m (the first 5.7 km and about 3 hours from the start).

Then you change to PR-TF54, which descends the slopes of Monte del Agua, passing through Las Moradas de Arriba and Bajas. This section passes between farms and hillside trails, then descends into the valley until you reach Los Silos again, completing the circle. Amidst midland forests and ocean views, you reach the coast. The mix of vegetation (laurisilva, fayal-brezal) is spectacular.

The route offers history and nature: you walk along an old Camino Real (Royal Road), see ancient walls, canals, traditional crossroads, and rural farmhouses. All immersed in Teno Rural Park, a reserve that alternates between humid forest and views of Roque de Las Moradas or Mount Teide, depending on the route.

Practical tips: wear hiking shoes, layered clothing (higher elevations may be wet or foggy), some sunscreen, walking sticks if possible, water, and snacks. Leave early to avoid the heat or fog. There are no refreshment points along the way. Remember to respect approved trails and private property.