Mountain of the Month – Trail Running in Scotland

Mountain of the Month is a unique opportunity to take on a new mountain challenge every month in 2025. Each month, a different route is selected, offering a chance to explore Scotland’s vast mountain terrain, from the Cairngorms to Ben Nevis. With expert guidance, small group sizes, and a focus on adventure over competition, it’s the perfect way to get out on the hills and push your limits.

Key Details

• Duration: Varies by route (7.5 to 10 hours approx.)
• Group Size: Max 5 runners per guide
• Location: Various locations across Scotland
• Age Limit: 18+
• Fitness Level: Good stamina and experience in the hills required

What to Expect

This monthly adventure is a fantastic opportunity to push your limits while enjoying Scotland's diverse and beautiful mountain landscapes. Each month, a new route is selected, leading participants through a range of terrain and varying challenges. 

Whether you're tackling the 21km route around Creag Meagaidh or aiming for the Cairngorm 4000’s, you'll be guided by experienced professionals who will ensure a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience. These runs aren’t about racing, but rather embracing the journey at a pace that suits the team while soaking in the surroundings.

The day will begin with a briefing at the meeting point, and from there, you'll head out with a small group of like-minded runners. The pace will be relaxed, allowing time for breaks, photos, and food along the way. Most of the uphill sections will be walked, with a focus on enjoying the route and the views. The guides are highly experienced and will adjust the pace and routes if necessary to accommodate weather conditions, ensuring a rewarding and memorable day.

Route Options for 2025

• Creag Meagaidh (21km, 1200m): Starting with a steep climb out of the birch forest, the route follows a grassy ridge line offering panoramic views of central Scotland. The final section descends into Coire Ardair, leading to undulating single-track trails back to the start point.

• Beinn a'Ghlo (22km, 1300m): This route takes you along the prominent ridge above Blair Atholl, linking three munros with some challenging climbs and thrilling descents. After summiting the final peak, the route includes an 11km downhill run back to the starting point.

• Lochnagar Munros (29km, 1300m): A fantastic high-level run in Royal Deeside, this circuit covers five munros. The trail starts at Loch Muick and takes in the impressive cliffs of Lochnagar. From the plateau, you'll enjoy smooth trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding lochs.

• Ben Nevis via CIC & CMD arete (24km, 1950m): A challenging route around the UK's highest peak, this includes a full circuit, a scramble along the famous CMD arete, and stunning views. A guided ascent ensures your safety across the rocky ridge, culminating in reaching the summit of Ben Nevis.

• Cairngorm 4000's (37km, 2500m): The ultimate mountain challenge, this route tackles five munros over 4000 feet. Starting at the Cairngorm Ski Centre, you'll traverse the Chalamain Gap, climb Braeriach, and finish with the long climb up to Ben Macdui and Cairngorm.

Location

Each route varies in location, but all offer breathtaking views and diverse terrain across Scotland’s renowned mountain ranges. From the Cairngorms to the Ben Nevis massif, participants will experience some of Scotland’s most iconic and remote highland terrain, with routes designed to give a real sense of mountain adventure. 

Depending on the route of the month, you'll meet at either the start point or a nearby location, with meeting details provided upon booking confirmation.

Prerequisites

Participants should have a solid level of fitness and mountain experience, with a good foundation in off-road running. Previous experience with steady runs up to 20km and mountain walking is essential to get the most out of these runs. 

The terrain will vary from easy running to more technical single-track, so some off-road experience is recommended. Be prepared for all weather conditions as the Scottish mountains can change quickly, requiring a well-equipped approach to safety and comfort.

Why Choose Us

The team brings a wealth of expertise and a deep love of the Scottish landscape to each session. They have vast experience guiding and coaching in adventure sports worldwide, ensuring that each participant receives the best possible support during their adventure. With a low guide-to-runner ratio, every individual is given plenty of attention, which ensures a supportive and personalised experience for all.

Their guides hold a minimum of the Mountain Leader qualification and have extensive mountain running exprience. This extensive skill set, combined with a shared passion for mountain running, guarantees an unforgettable and safe adventure in Scotland’s incredible wilderness.