Cape Wrath Ultra

Fort William, United Kingdom • 17-24 May 2026

Event overview

The Cape Wrath Ultra® is a multi-day ultra running event in the Scottish Highlands. The full course covers 400 km over eight days, starting in Fort William and finishing at Cape Wrath. The route passes through Knoydart, Kintail, Torridon, Assynt, and Sutherland. The event is held annually in May. The Cape Wrath Explorer offers a flexible option where participants may choose to do part of the route each day. The Cape Wrath 100 is a separate three-day, 100-mile multi-day challenge along the trail.

Route and distances

The full event is organised as daily stages. Typical stage distances are:

  • Day 1 - 37 km (23 miles)
  • Day 2 - 57 km (35 miles)
  • Day 3 - 68 km (42 miles)
  • Day 4 - 35 km (22 miles)
  • Day 5 - 44 km (27 miles)
  • Day 6 - 72 km (45 miles)
  • Day 7 - 61 km (38 miles)
  • Day 8 - 26 km (16 miles)

For 2026 the Cape Wrath Ultra and Explorer dates are 17–24 May 2026, and the Cape Wrath 100 dates are 17–19 May 2026. The finish is at the Cape Wrath lighthouse, which marks the end of mainland Scotland. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

UTMB 100K UTMB 100M
400 km
Cape Wrath Ultra
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Kick off the New Year with the Aonach Mor Uphill at Nevis Range: a lung busting 4 km ascent gaining 610 m above Fort William. Entries are full but racers enjoy post race soup and the option of a warm gondola descent.

Run the Glen Lyon Ultra on 6 June 2026, a scenic 31 mile trail around Loch Lyon and Glen Lochay with about 3,500 ft ascent. Mostly off road with river crossings that may leave your feet wet, this rugged course earns 2 UTMB points.

Tackle a scenic 15.5 mile off road loop around Loch Lyon, weaving through remote Perthshire hills and river crossings. With rugged terrain, a friendly atmosphere and limited places, this is a classic trail challenge for adventurous runners.

Run the Great Glen Ultra on 4 July 2026, a 72 mile route with about 8,500 ft ascent from Corpach to Inverness along the scenic Great Glen Way. Expect canal towpaths, forest tracks and Loch Ness views plus 4 UTMB points.