Shale Trail Run
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Shale Trail Races
This event on 6 December 2026, organised by Lothian Running Club, uses the West Lothian Shale Trail and is point to point between locations in West Lothian. The route follows canal towpaths, woodland paths and surfaced sections between Winchburgh and West Calder. Dogs and pushchairs are not allowed on the course.
Distances offered:
- 50 km race, GPS tracking, checkpoints approximately every 8 km
- 25 km race, follows Shale Trail from West Calder to Winchburgh
- 9 km race, woodland sections may be muddy; trail shoes recommended
- Relay 9 km, 6 km, 10 km legs with the timing chip acting as the baton
The 50 km race has an 8 hour cut off and will use GPS tracking for competitor monitoring. Marshals and a tail runner will be present on all races. Checkpoints and water stations are located at key points; a drop bag service is available to the mid route checkpoint for 50 km runners. Baggage transport is provided for some races; relay teams have no baggage facilities.
Compulsory kit reflects winter trail conditions and includes a head covering, waterproof jacket, space blanket or similar, mobile phone, food and drink. Age minimums apply: 20 for 50 km, 17 for 25 km, and 15 for 9 km and relay teams. All finishers receive a memento and races are chip timed. Trophies are planned across gender and veteran categories. First aid will be available at the start and finish areas. A downloadable GPX route is provided and photographs and videos may be taken during the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
