Cairngorms Ultra

Cairngorms Ultra Trail : Mar Lodge, Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms Ultra Trail is an off road ultramarathon based at Mar Lodge Estate near Braemar in the Cairngorms National Park. The full course is 60 km with approximately 1006 m of ascent and reaches a highest point near 700 m. The route is largely on defined paths, tracks and old drove roads, with only small sections on minor roads at the start and finish. The route will be waymarked so navigation experience is not required; a GPX file is available and navigational devices are permitted as backup.

Aid stations are limited for environmental reasons; staffed aid is provided at Derry Lodge (about 23 km) and Linn of Dee (about 45 km). Runners are expected to carry sufficient food and water and may refill from natural rivers along the route. There are intermediate cutoffs and a total time limit of 12:30 hours for the full event.

A shorter option is available: participants who reach CP5 at Linn of Dee may continue directly to the finish and record a 48 km result. Short course finishers are classed as finishers but are not eligible for event prizes; CP5 must be reached within the allotted time.

Entries are limited due to conservation rules and the minimum entry age is 18 years. Entry fees include an early bird price of £62 until 15 December, then £67 plus a 4% online fee. A 50% refund minus the online booking fee is offered up to six weeks before the event. Camping is available at the race venue at a cost of £10 per tent or camper van per night; this is basic camping with fresh water and portable toilets only. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.