Great Glen Ultra Marathon

Event overview

The Great Glen Ultra Marathon takes place on 4 July 2026. The route covers 72 miles with approximately 8,500 ft of ascent and awards 4 UTMB points. The race runs along the Great Glen Way from Fort William to Inverness, following the waymarked route and its distinctive blue posts. The route uses canal towpaths, forestry paths and tracks, with some road sections, and includes the High Route option for extended views.

Format, route and support

The event is for solo runners and is designed to be run unsupported. The course is fully marked and marshaled checkpoints are provided at roughly 10-mile intervals. The route starts at Corpach and passes Loch Lochay before climbing to views over Loch Ness. The first 30 miles are generally undulating; the major climbs appear after Fort Augustus. There is an additional water stop at Grotaig around mile 49.

Checkpoints, rules and kit

Checkpoint locations include Clunes (about 10.5 miles), Laggan Locks (about 20 miles), Fort Augustus (about 31 miles), Invermoriston (about 40 miles), Drumnadrochit (about 54.5 miles), Loch Laide (about 62 miles) and the finish at Inverness Athletics Stadium (about 72 miles). Cut-off times apply at checkpoints and marshals may use discretion for safety. Runners must carry mandatory kit throughout the race, including a full-size foil blanket, a working mobile phone and a means to carry at least 1 litre of water. Support crews may meet runners only at Fort Augustus, Invermoriston, Drumnadrochit and the finish. The race operates under a Scottish Athletics race licence and follows event protocols for public health. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.