Montane Dragon's Back Race

Dragon's Back Race

Dragon’s Back Race is a multistage, multiday mountain running event that follows the spine of Wales from Conwy Castle to Cardiff Castle. The modern race was revived in 2012, twenty years after the original 1992 edition.

The main route crosses major mountain ranges including the Brecon Beacons, Cambrian Mountains, Rhinogs, Moelwyns and Snowdonia. Navigation on the route is unmarked and competitors are self supported within the event's safety frameworks. The format requires route finding, mountain judgement and sustained daily progress over six days.

Two shorter challenges use sections of the main route. Dragon’s Fire covers northern mountains such as the Carneddau, Glyderau and the Snowdon massif and includes the Rhinogs. Dragon’s Tail covers the southern stages across the Brecon Beacons and the Cambrian Mountains. Each shorter event lasts two days and presents the same unmarked, self supported approach on condensed stages.

Next scheduled event dates are 7th to 12th September 2026.

Key metrics Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

• 380 km total distance
• Average daily distance about 63 km
• Total ascent about 17,400 m