← Fort William Trail Running Festival

Ok, going to get this out there at the start this is an absolutely fantastic race worthy of any bucket list  if you're not going to read tge rest of this review then <spoiler alert> you should do this race.

This race starts and finishes at the Nevis Range ski and mountain resort about two miles outside of Fort William. There are shuttle buses that run between Fort William and the resort as well as lots of parking.

The race starts with an overall uphill on mostly trail routes. This was my favourite part of the course with fantastic views and a nice overall variation in terrain and territory.

The route then goes to the striking Commando Monument at the nearby town of Spean Bridge. This is the turnaround point.

 

There's then a fantastically fast downhill section on quiet country roads again with fantastic views. 

About 14 miles the hardest part of the course comes - a flat! From miles 14 to 20 there is a slog along the side of the canal, although this section is perfectly flat it's not the most interesting scenery wise and does feel quite a slog.

The final 6 miles of the route are a loop by the outskirts of Fort William then a final uphill section to the end. Who puts a hill at the end of a run!

There are regular water stops and there are also high-5 gels at about 4 points on the route. Although there are some trail sections none of them are too technical. It's fine to do in road shoes and those who normally do road racing should not find the terrain too challenging.

The race is limited to 500 places which makes it quite a unique experience to run. With large portions off road the local support can be a bit sparse in places but when you go through small towns and by the canal the local people are extremely friendly. There are regular and friendly marshalls.

This is one of the most stunning races scenery wise and well worth doing for the scenery alone. Overall the experience of doing such a small marathon on an amazing route is such sn experience in itself. You should do this race!