Bristow 15 Mile Trail Race

Run Balmoral 15 miles Trail Race

Run Balmoral stages a 15-mile trail race on Sunday 5 April 2026 at Balmoral Estates, Ballater, Aberdeenshire. Entry fee is £29 (£27 for Scottish Athletics members). Entrants must be 18 years or older on race day. The route starts in view of Balmoral Castle and runs west beside the river Dee, then climbs gradually through Ballochbuie pine forest. At about mile 8 the course leaves the river and climbs to the base of Lochnagar, with roughly 120 metres of ascent. The final three miles descend back towards the castle. The surface is mostly Land Rover track and the last mile can be muddy. The route is exposed in places and participants should expect wind, rain or snow. The maximum finish time for the 15-mile race is 3.5 hours.

Logistics, facilities and rules

Entry includes a tree planted per entry, a finisher's medal, electronic timing and a downloadable finisher’s certificate. Free field parking is provided; allow at least a 15 minute walk from the far car parks to the start. Race packs are posted about 1-2 weeks before the event, with overseas packs available for collection at the information tent. There are two water stations at Connachat House and mile markers at every mile. There are no toilets on the course but toilets are available at the start and finish. Male and female changing tents are provided but there are no showers. Massage will be available adjacent to the information tent. Headphones are not permitted, except bone-conductor types at the runner’s own risk. Bicycles are not allowed to support runners on the route. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.