Loch Ness 360° Trail

Category: Loch Ness 360 Challenge

  • LN360° : The Story So Far

    LN360° : The Story So Far

    The Loch Ness 360° Trail is a long-distance walking and cycling route, developed by Visit Inverness Loch Ness. To create this epic route, which loops around the whole of Loch Ness, we joined two great Scottish trails together. Here’s the story so far …

    2002 … The Great Glen Way is launched

    The first of these trails is the Great Glen Way. A long-distance path, which opened in 2002 and is maintained by the Great Glen Ways Partnership (The Highland Council, Scottish Canals and Forestry Commission Scotland). 79 miles / 127 km in total, it follows the Great Glen, from Inverness to Fort William via Fort Augustus, on the northern side of Loch Ness.  Taking 4-7 days to complete, the route is mainly low-level, yet challenging in sections. It quickly became popular with walkers and cyclists and is one of Scottish Natural Heritage’s Great Trails.

    Cyclist passing The Viewpoint sculpture on the Great Glen Way high route

    2011 … We introduce The South Loch Ness Trail

    Next came the South Loch Ness Trail in 2011. Visit Inverness Loch Ness developed this trail, reaching from Loch Tarff to Inverness. The path is 36 miles / 58 km long and follows the wilder, more unspoilt south side of the loch, with varied scenery and superb views down onto the famous waters.  

    Walker on the South Loch Ness Trail between Whitebridge and Foyers

    2018 … The two trails form The Loch Ness 360° Trail

    At this point, there was the Great Glen Way starting in Inverness and passing through Fort Augustus on the way to Fort William. And the South Loch Ness Trail, which started in Loch Tarff, just above Fort Augustus and went up to Inverness. So, there was just one additional path needed to connect Fort Augustus and Loch Tarff. This would allow walkers to leave the Great Glen Way at Fort Augustus, and continue along the South Loch Ness Trail back to Inverness. Thus creating a full loop around the world-famous Loch Ness. What a great idea!

    In 2018, Visit Inverness Loch Ness opened a final section of path, linking Loch Ness’s two spectacular trails together. We called this new complete loop, starting and ending in Inverness, the Loch Ness 360° Trail. Split into six recommended sections, walkers can do the whole loop over six days, one section per day. Cyclists may be able to complete two sections per day.

    Loch Tarff on the South Loch Ness Trail in summer

    2022 … Loch Ness Challenge coming soon

    The latest chapter in our story, is the launch of our exciting new sporting event. Happening for the first time this spring, the Loch Ness Challenge is a three-day festival of running and cycling, which offers the choice of:

    1. Running three marathons over three days around the whole of Loch Ness. (Or, running one or two of the marathons).

    2. Runnning an ultra marathon around the full 129km of the trail. 

    3. Cycling the full trail in the mountain bike challenge.

    The challenges will test participants’ strength and stamina. Most the trail is off road on a mixture of built trail, rough tracks and forest paths. The event takes place between Friday 20th and Sunday 22nd May 2022. If you’re interested in entering, you can find out more here.

    Man running along the Loch Ness Trail in winter

    That’s The Story So Far …

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  • Preparing for the Loch Ness Challenge Ultra Marathon

    Preparing for the Loch Ness Challenge Ultra Marathon

    The second in our series of blogs from ultra-athlete and journalist Sean McFarlane. If you’re planning on taking on the Loch Ness Ultra Marathon Challenge, read on for some expert tips …

    What makes an ideal ultra for you?

    An epic course, constantly changing terrain and slick logistics all set in a truly iconic location? Yup, thought so, and that’s what makes the Loch Ness Challenge the ultra to do in 2022. Make no mistake, this is big stuff. 80 miles long with over 10,000 feet of ascent, it’s a huge day and a challenge like nothing else. Yet this is an extraordinary event within the grasp of many. It really is amazing what you can do with some decent training and smart decisions on race day, combined with a head and body committed to getting to the finish.

    An anti-clockwise route starting and finishing in Dores on the north east edge of Loch Ness, the race goes around Scotland’s most famous body of water and takes in plenty of other stuff en route. At times you’ll be heading well away from the loch, helping to feel deeply immersed in this most stunning of landscapes. One distinctive aspect of the Loch Ness 360 ﹾ is the varied terrain. With its wide forest roads to narrow single track, and newly built gravel paths to hairpins ascents and descents, you can guarantee that boredom will never be an issue.

    Running along path with Loch Ness in background

    Preparation and nutrition are key

    The event really is all about those who can keep going forward and slow down the least. Time on feet in your training is particularly important, pace less so. Also look to mentally break things up during the race, using all the landmarks and places dotted around the trail to do so. Don’t view it as an 80-mile event and consider it as say 8 ten-mile runs. The variety of the Loch Ness 360 ﹾ makes it perfect for creating manageable chunks in your head.

    As for the all important issue of nutrition, the trick is constant grazing. Test your nutrition on longer runs in training and go with what works for you. Remember taste is important, so consider using some real food. Make clear notes of the aid stations and what is available at each one.  They’re conveniently spaced at regular intervals so make sure you know where they are. Remember you can send stuff in advance to the aid station at Fort Augustus at 49.5 miles in. Avoid carrying too much, unless you really want to.

    So what can you expect on race day?

    Preparing

    Ultras have a habit of starting at all times of day. Here it’s a 10 pm start so do what you can to cope with that. Adjust your body clock, take caffeine nutrition at the appropriate time, mentally prepare for and accept dips in moods and enthusiasm. With a good plan and mental approach, the body will follow.

    Getting Started

    Don’t get caught up in racing from the off. Find a rhythm and even a friend or two and let yourself settle into things from the start. The field will spread out very quickly so just jog, relax and take it all in. Inverness is your first major landmark and a good place to take stock of things.

    Keeping Going

    Heading through the city you climb out onto its western side and from here it’s through the forest and then onto the back road at Blackfold, well away from the loch for the time being. Into Abriachan, it’s now a wide forest trail which eventually narrows up and spits you out just above Drumnadrochit. Into the town you then climb out once more and from here to Fort Augustus you take the aptly called “high route”. . This really is a tough section as you climb, traverse, descend and repeat, so just do what you can to get it done. Walk, eat, stretch. Anything you like. And remember that with effort comes reward so take some time along the way to soak up some of the finest views on the planet.

    You will eventually reach Fort Augustus, a good old town and gloriously infected by all things Nessie. There’ll no doubt be several admiring tourists and for good reason – you’re now on the final push of this epic adventure. The newly built gravel path out of the town is a steep and long climb so be mindful not to overcook things here. You’re well into the ‘absolutely fine to walk’ territory.

    Things level out above Loch Tarff and now is the time, more than ever, to stop and marvel. In any conditions this is a special place and view. Scotland at its unbeatable best. Gather the energy around and head down when you’re ready, through the felled forest, along the river and into Foyers. The end is now almost in sight, well if it wasn’t for the trees. For those of you still running at this point, enjoy but pay attention on the impressive single track to Inverfarigaig. Once there, you’re onto the final climb (I promise) up the broken tarmac known locally as the Corkscrew.

    Crossing the Finish Line

    Your wheels may well be coming off now, but rest assured everyone else’s are too. And really by now who cares? Things level out and then you’re through the woods and down the classic zig zagging path called Fair Haired Lad’s Pass with Loch Ness in full display in front of you. Muster any last energy to head through the forest and finally onto Dores where it all began.

    Two men running near Loch Ness

    The Ultra to do in 2022

    If you can honestly think of a more epic, memorable and rewarding physical challenge this year, we don’t believe you!

  • A Marathon Resolution

    A Marathon Resolution

    In the first of a series of blogs, ultra-athlete and journalist Sean McFarlane talks about setting targets and entering 2020’s newest Inverness marathon – the Loch Ness Challengeﹾ.

    New year, new you

    How are those resolutions going? No meat, dairy or alcohol? And soon no laughing or talking no doubt! Most of us either start the year by going without something, or at least considering it. How about sporting challenges? They’re also firmly on the radar of several of us at this time of year. Hands up who’s entered an ironman? And hands up who actually knows what an ironman involves?! Striking that vital balance of finding something that is ambitious but realistic is all-important but very difficult to do. Running events of some sort or other have long been the most common of such targets, and for good reason. From 5k fun runs to ultras, there’s plenty to choose from. A marathon is undoubtedly a great challenge and more established than really anything else. But why not avoid the tarmac this year and take your pick of a choice of three off-road Inverness marathons, set right in the heart of Scotland’s most famous location?

    Castle Urquhart on Loch Ness

    What is the Loch Ness Challenge?

    The Loch Ness 360ﹾ trail, an off-road track of 80 miles around Loch Ness, is perfect for a whole host of outdoor activities, none more so than running. The end of May this year sees three marathon distance events run on consecutive days around this world-famous body of water. It starts on Friday 29th with a race from Dores to Drumnadrochit. Then Saturday 30th sees competitors run from Drumndrochit to Fort Augustus with finally Sunday 31st having competitors heading from Fort Augustus to Dores. Take your pick from any of the three or do all three! And just in case that’s not enough for you there’s even a race of 80 miles taking in the entire trail!

    Dores to Drumnadrochit

    The first off-road Inverness marathon race is from Dores to Drumnadrochit and being on a Friday requires a day off work for most. What better excuse do you need? Starting by the lochside, you’ll soon climb away from the water then head along the trail, wide to start with then narrowing up at Torbreck and from here round the south-west side of Inverness itself. No time to relax though as you climb again to the north of the city and out eventually to Abriachan high above the loch on its north-west side.

    From here it’s more forest trail which narrows up before the trees fall away and you see the magnificent Urquhart Castle. Not far now but still a few miles before reaching Drumnadrochit and the finish line. What a way to start the weekend!

    a runner in the hills of Scotland

    Drumnadrochit to Fort Augustus

    Saturday’s route sees you quickly pulling up high out of Drumnadrochit and onto the forest track. After plenty of very pleasant forest running, you descend into Invermoriston. What goes down must go up though, or something like that, and climb you do out of the village to more forest trails of varying width. On several occasions, the trees lessen and you’ll catch a glimpse or two of the loch.

    Then the trees thicken once more and as they do you descend into them and the outskirts of Fort Augustus. Try to avoid the Nessie hunters, all snapping photos of anything monster related. The finish line is in the centre of town. You’ve thoroughly earned your pint, or two, tonight.

    running men in the Highlands of Scotland

    Fort Augustus to Dores

    Sunday’s offering is back to Dores where all the fun began. Perhaps the most defining aspect of the Loch Ness 360ﹾ trail is its ever-changing terrain, which fundamentally adds to its enjoyment. And that changing terrain is very much on display on this route. First climbing on the perfect smooth gravel trail out of Fort Augustus, the beauty of the track does somewhat alleviate the pain of climbing up to over 400 metres and the signature location of the whole Loch Ness 360ﹾ trail. Above Loch Tarff, in
    any weather, is special.

    Even if you’re in the lead at this point, stop, even just for a few seconds and marvel. This is why we run, so pause to reflect on how lucky we are to be able to do so. Ok leaders crack on, others feel free to gaze a bit longer! From here the trail meanders so pay attention and enjoy. It’s not difficult to do. Resist the strong temptation to stop at Cameron’s Tea room in Foyers, or not! This south-east side of the Loch has a very different feel to its northwestern cousin. Far less busy but equally if not even more worthwhile, certainly for us on two feet.

    Soak it up and have fun on the surprisingly technical section to Inverfarigaig. More climbing follows up the broken tarmac and hairpins, aptly named the Corkscrew by locals. From here, that ever-changing terrain is once more on full display as you head through the Fair Haired Lad’s Pass and the winding and loose descent.

    Hopefully down in one piece, a final section of forest track and road is all that lies between you and the finish in Dores. Which Inverness marathon race to do? It’s a genuine dilemma. So forget abstaining from things in January and instead enter one of these truly iconic events!

  • An Insider’s Guide to the Loch Ness 360° Marathon Routes

    An Insider’s Guide to the Loch Ness 360° Marathon Routes

    Scotland’s newest marathon route, the Loch Ness 360° trail, will welcome runners from all over the world for the first time in 2020. Combining stunning views and challenging terrain, it’s going to be a race to remember. As it is brand new, we thought you might like a few marathon running tips from local runners who know the route, and can give you a few tips to prepare for the run.

    Now, there are three marathon routes in total to be run over three days. You can enter one, two or all three marathons. 

    Route 1 is from Dores to Drumnadrochit. This is the best marathon to enter if trail running is new to you and are looking for a challenge or wish to try something new.

    Route 2 is from Drumnadrochit to Fort Augustus. This is a testing route, and by far the most challenging.  It should only be attempted by experienced and confident trail runners. 

    Route 3 is from Fort Augustus back to Dores. The challenge level of this route sits in between the first two. It’s great for experienced runners who want to enjoy both a challenging trail and the scenic view. 

    Tips for running Marathon 1 – Dores to Drumnadrochit

    This marathon is the best one to run if you have never attempted trail running before, but want to give yourself a challenge. And the challenge begins straightaway, as this section almost immediately takes you steeply uphill. This won’t be something you’re used to if you have only previously run on flat roads. Our advice is to make sure you’re fully warmed up before starting, and take this part easy. Shooting off at top speed from the starting gun will only see you suffer soon down the line. 

    This route takes you into Inverness city centre, running safely on the pavement here. After a couple of miles through this beautiful city, you will rejoin the Great Glen Way and head towards Craig Dunain Hill. Here you will meet another rise, this time of around 700 feet. This is a nice section of the trail where you will run through wild woods.

    When you come out, you’ll have a couple of miles on a road, then enter some more woods. It’s a great way to finish, as you’ll have a steep descent down towards Drumnadrochit. 

    If you are planning on running this route, don’t expect to match – or come anywhere near – your usual road-running marathon times. This is a completely different type of race. The best training to do in advance is to practice running on hills. Get out on rough ground when you’re training to get a feel for the ground beneath you. 

    As with all our routes, there are cutoff points and aid stations all the way. Make sure you take advantage of these, and the energy drinks and food too.

    This is a challenging, but do-able, route for your first trail run. Good luck!

    Tips for running Marathon 2 – Drumnadrochit to Fort Augustus

    This is, by far, the hardest marathon of all three. There’s a total ascent of 1,250 metres, and it doesn’t give up. There’s a sharp rise from Drumnadrochit before heading towards the Great Glen Way. There aren’t any road sections for around 9 miles as you head towards Invermoriston. 

    You’ll run across what’s known as the “High Route”, and as you can imagine it’s quite a climb to get there. The views are worth it though, and this section gives you a true sense of running in the wilderness. But it is testing, so don’t lose focus.

    There’s a sharp descent coming up towards Invermoriston, but then you’re running uphill straight away again. This is going to be your slowest mile on the whole section.  When we said there’s no respite on this route, we meant it! However, once you get over this mile, you’ll be treated to fantastic views again. 

    Fort Augustus is where you will end up, but it’s not going to be as easy as you hoped. Once you get here, there are a few more miles to run along the River Oich before, finally, finishing at Morag’s Lodge and earning a good rest. 

    Make no mistake, this route is a big challenge. But if you succeed, you’ll be one of the first to have accomplished this marathon section of the Loch Ness 360° trail. 

    Tips for running Marathon 3 – Fort Augustus to Dores

    The challenge level of this route sits in between the first two, in that it is achievable for casual yet experienced trail runners. 

    You’ll start a little uphill from Fort Augustus, and head out onto perhaps the most scenic and varied of the routes. Ranging from very high quality to more basic paths, you’ll enjoy stunning views over Loch Ness. 

    As you wind your way towards Foyers, you’ll first need to run up to the highest point of the whole trail: The Suidhe. You can then look forward to a 7km climb up towards the Fair Haired Lad’s Pass. All in all, there is approximately 1000m of ascent on this section, but the final stretch towards Dores is, fortunately, mostly downhill. 

    Choose your marathon!

    Whatever you choose – some or all of the marathons – you’ll have a great experience with us. The views are going to be unlike anything you’ve run before, and the feeling when you cross that finish line will be one of the best yet.

    For more information on the challenge and how to enter, visit our overview.