From West to East, the trail starts at Cape Higuer (Basque Country), crosses Navarre and Aragon and finishes at Cap de Creus (Catalonia.)

Its exact distance is difficult to measure, roughly 840 km (520 mi) and a total elevation change of 39,000 m (128,000 ft).

At the end of each section there is normally a useful stopping point (camping spot, town, hostel or refuge) but in general, supplies have to be carried for 3–4 days.

The heat is much better tackled when the body has acclimated and physical conditioning has improved toward the end of the trip.

Although walking East might provide a more comfortable start, it implies facing the Sun during the morning.