Granite Peaks Races

NIMRA Granite Peaks 28k

The NIMRA Granite Peaks 28k is a mountain running event held in County Down, starting and finishing at Tollymore Forest Park near Bryansford. The course covers a distance of 28.24 km and includes a total ascent of 1,328 meters. The event is categorized as extreme difficulty and is open to senior runners only.

The route begins below the main car park in Tollymore Forest Park, proceeding toward the Kings Grave and the Trassey Track. Runners follow the track through the upper stile toward Happy Valley, crossing the Mourne Wall between Meelmore and Meelbeg. The course follows the wall anti-clockwise to the col between Slieve Loughshannagh and Carn Mountain.

Participants then descend toward Ben Crom Dam and cross it before ascending toward the Slievelamaghan summit. The path continues along the Brandy Pad, passing Cove Mountain and reaching the summit of Slieve Beg. From there, the route returns via Hare’s Gap and descends the Trassey Track back into Tollymore Forest Park to the finish line.

The race is part of the NIMRA League and utilizes GPS tracking. Race marking is limited to major junctions only. Runners must carry mandatory equipment, including:

• Waterproof jacket with integrated hood and taped seams
• Waterproof full leg cover
• Hat or buff, gloves, and whistle
• Foil blanket or bivvy bag
• Map of the route and a compass
• Mobile phone with emergency number
• Emergency food and capacity for 500 mL of water

The final kit required on the day is determined by registration based on weather conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.