A Truly unique trail Race

An iconic Mountain. Wild trails. Stunning wildlife.

Race to the Base has it all.

the route

Beginning in the pretty fishing village of Lochinver at Culag Park, runners will set off along a quiet single track road, past Loch Druim towards the stunning Glencanisp Lodge. Here, they'll join the walkers footpath as they head into the wilderness. Rough in places, but well marked and easy to follow, the gravel and stone path winds its way through some truly stunning, rugged and wild Highland scenery.

Keep your eyes open for wild deer, pine martins and eagles as you head towards the unforgettable mountain of Suilven.

The final mile takes you to the shores of Loch na Gainimh at the base of the mountain, where you'll be treated to unspoilt views of Suilvens formidable northern slopes.

Returning along the same route, runners will finish on Lochinvers stunning harbour breakwater, where if you're lucky, you may spot porpoise, dolphin, otters or seals.

the race base

Registration will take place at Assynt Leisure Centre (IV27 4JP) between 09.00 - 10.30. (Toilets available)

Once registered, runners will meet at the Start Area in Culag Park for a pre-race briefing, warm-up and safety talk at 10.45. The race will start at 11.00.

Runners finish on the Harbour Breakwater.

The main village of Lochinver is only a 5-10 minute walk from the Finish Line, and offers shops, cafes and restaurants, plus ample parking.

13.1 miles

1500ft Elevation Gain

25% road, 75% track

4 hour time limit

fully way-marked and marshalled

water stations at miles 3, 6 and 9

right next to the world-famous nc500 touring route

local information

lochinver

further afield

Part of the world-famous NC500 driving route, the village of Lochinver has everything you need for race day, including shops, restaurants, cafes, a petrol station and ample free parking. There is plenty of accommodation but we'd recommend booking early, as it fills up fast.

Ullapool - 1 hour drive

The village of Ullapool has a supermarket, takeaways, restaurants, pubs, accommodation and plenty of shops.

Inverness - 2 hour drive

The capital of the Highlands, Inverness has excellent transport links to the rest of Scotland.

FAQs

How do I register?

Simple, click here to find our registration page.

Is there an age limit?

Yes, for insurance purposes, participants must be 18 years old on the day of the race.

When does registration close?

Registration closes on 24/5/2024

Can I register on the day?

Sorry, for safety reasons, all participants must have pre-registered 1 week before race day.

How hard is the race?

While there are no technically difficult parts to the course, the terrain quite challenging in places. The path can be extremely wet in poor weather, and some of the rockier sections may be slippy. Some trail experience would be beneficial.

What shoes should I wear?

We'd strongly recommend trail running shoes. While there are sections of road and hard track, much of the race is run on gravel and softer track, and is not suitable for road running shoes.

Is there a time limit?

Yes. For the safety of our marshals, there is a time limit of 4 hours. After this time, our race marshals will be brought down off the race route. No sweeper vehicle will be available on the rough sections of track (miles 3-10), so please bare this in mind before entering.

Are there any water stations?

Yes, water will be available on route around miles 3, 6 and 9.

Do I need navigation skills?

No. The entire route is on paths/roads, and is well way-marked. There will be marshals at junctions.

Will there be any first aid?

Yes - we have outdoor trained first aid volunteers available. However, please be advised that due to the nature of the course, and the remote setting, even with an ATV vehicle on standby it may take First Aid personal some time to get to you. You will be required to carry an emergency blanket during the race should you need to wait for aid.

In the event of a medical emergency, Mountain Rescue / Coastguard will be dispatched. Again, given the lack of road access, this may take several hours.

All participants will be required to fill out a medical declaration stating they are fit and healthy, and that they can confidently expect to finish the race. This is for your safety and for the safety of our volunteers.

Can I use poles?

Yes, poles are permitted.

Can I bring a dog?

No. Sorry! We love dogs too, but the trial is too narrow in places to safely accommodate dogs. Also, there are deer and sheep loose along most of the course.

Can I compete in a wheelchair?

Sorry no - the track is completely unsuitable for wheelchairs.

Can I wear headphones?

Headphones are permitted, but we ask participants to refrain from using them the the first and last mile of the race, where runners will cross a section of unclosed road.