Skye Trail Ultra

Event Overview

The Skye Trail Ultra is an ultramarathon that traverses the Isle of Skye from end to end. The route follows the wild and unmarked Skye Trail, starting at the northern tip of the island by the Duntulm Castle ruins and finishing at Broadford Village Hall. The course explores varied terrain, including coastal trails and mountain ranges such as the Trotternish Ridge.

Due to permanent route adjustments intended to avoid coastal erosion, the course distance is approximately 79 miles with a total elevation gain of 3780 meters. This is a self-navigation event, and participants are required to be competent in the use of a map and compass.

Participation and Logistics

Entry is limited to 100 places and is available by application only. Applicants must demonstrate a solid background in mountain or ultrarunning experience. Participants must be at least 20 years old on race day. The event features a strictly enforced overall cut-off time of 27 hours.

There are 7 checkpoints located along the route:

• Checkpoint 1 (7 miles): Quiraing Car Park
• Checkpoint 2 (21 miles): Old Man of Storr Car Park
• Checkpoint 3 (30 miles): Portree Community Centre
• Checkpoint 4 (36 miles): Braes Community Hall
• Checkpoint 5 (42 miles): Sligachan Campsite
• Checkpoint 6 (56 miles): Elgol Village Hall
• Checkpoint 7 (64 miles): Bla Bheinn Car Park

Checkpoints provide water, refreshments, and snacks, with hot food available at specific village halls. Runners are allowed a support crew at most locations, but no pacers are permitted. Mandatory kit, including a hardcopy map, waterproof clothing, and a survival bag, must be carried at all times.

Tracking and Recognition

Progress is monitored via live online tracking. Finishers are categorized by their arrival time: the top 25 receive a gold medal, the next 25 receive silver, and all subsequent finishers within the cut-off receive bronze. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.