The Offroad Community of Tenerife demands that two sections of tracks in Teide National Park be kept open, which have been excluded from the Management and Use Plan. The group estimates there are around 12,000 offroad users on the island.
The Offroad Community of Tenerife has raised its voice to prevent the closure of two historic routes that cross Teide National Park. These are the Montañas Negras sections in Arico, approximately three kilometres long, and the Ramón Caminero to Izaña track on the northern slope, specifically the section of the Montaña de los Mallorquines, around six kilometres long. According to the group's promoter, Francisco Mora, both routes were previously included among the tracks authorised for motor vehicles but have been excluded following the update of the Management and Use Plan (PRUG) for the National Park.
A Group with Roots in Forest Surveillance
Francisco Mora, a forest firefighter with 28 years of experience, leads the Offroad Community of Tenerife, which comprises about 17 people in its organisational structure and maintains links with numerous users of 4x4 vehicles and off-road motorcycles on the island. Mora argues that regulated transit on these routes can contribute to territorial surveillance, fire prevention, and the preservation of historically valuable routes.
"The PRUG does not categorically state that these specific routes should be closed, but it does indicate that this activity is incompatible with the conservation of the National Park," explains Mora. In response to this interpretation, the group argues that moderate, controlled, and orderly use can be compatible with environmental protection.
About 12,000 Offroad Users in Tenerife
Mora estimates that there are around 12,000 users linked to offroad activities, including 4x4 vehicles and motorcycles. Of these, about 8,000 would be motorcyclists, although within this group, various modalities coexist, from trail enthusiasts to enduro users. The group insists on differentiating these practices and emphasises that their proposal does not focus on extreme sports use but on regulated mototourism.
The group argues that these tracks hold not only recreational value but also historical significance. Mora recalls that these are routes used since the mid-20th century, and even linked to earlier paths related to traditional movements between the north and south of the island. He also refers to former forest uses, such as charcoal production, resin extraction for ship caulking, and the use of tea wood for stately homes and churches.
Regulation Proposal to Balance Uses
Although these uses no longer exist, the tracks still serve current functions, especially for activities such as hunting and beekeeping. In this context, the Offroad Community of Tenerife proposes specific regulation that allows for the compatibility of different mountain uses with the conservation of protected areas.
Among the measures proposed by the group is the possibility of establishing limited authorisations, a fee to be paid by users, and the obligation to receive training. Mora asserts that those who travel these routes should be aware of the historical, botanical, geological, and faunal value of the areas they traverse.
"We are not asking for uncontrolled use, but for an organisation that allows us to continue enjoying these routes responsibly," notes Mora. The group has initiated contacts with the Cabildo of Tenerife and the Autonomous Agency of National Parks to seek a solution that does not close the door on mototourism and 4x4 enthusiasts.
For now, the ball is in the court of the administration. Users hope that dialogue will open so that these two historic routes do not fade into oblivion, and that regulated mototourism has a place in Teide National Park.
