Ultra X: The Ultimate Scottish Adventure Returns

Ultra X, the world’s leading global ultra-marathon series, is thrilled to announce the return of Ultra X Scotland 2026, an iconic trail running experience set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Taking place over the weekend of 2–3 May 2026, this flagship event brings together adventurers from around the world for an unforgettable test of endurance.

Ultra X Scotland is a weekend trail running event with 6 different event options:

  • Ultra X Scotland 110km: 110km ultra-marathon which can be done in one or two stages
  • Ultra X Scotland 60km: 60km ultra-marathon along the Great Glen Way and the North side of Loch Ness
  • Ultra X Scotland 50km: 50km ultra-marathon along the South Loch Ness Trail and the South side of Loch Ness
  • Ultra X Scotland 25km: 25km finishing in Dores
  • Ultra X Scotland 12km: 12km finishing in Dores

The route showcases the wild beauty of Loch Ness, following parts of the Great Glen Way and South Loch Ness Trail.

The 110km events are UTMB® World Series Qualifiers (100K category). The 60km and 50km events are UTMB® World Series Qualifiers (50K category). The 25km event is a UTMB® World Series Qualifiers (25K category).

2025 saw record-breaking participation, with over 800 travelling to Inverness for the event weekend from more than 38 countries, generating £200,000+ in direct economic impact for the Inverness area.

Emma Harrison Destination Development Manager at Visit Loch Ness: “Ultra X events have become an important active offering for the area of Inverness and Loch Ness. The international events organisers bring Loch Ness to life over the course of the weekend, offering participants the opportunity to experience to run in the destination and see the unique landscape for themselves. The iconic races on offer are something we fully support, knowing the team do their upmost to involve the community and contribute to the local businesses in the area. We wish them the best of luck for 2026”

Now established as Scotland’s largest ultra-marathon, Ultra X Scotland continues to gain global recognition, recently ranked among the top ultra-marathons worldwide by TimeOutdoors.

Registration for the 2026 edition opens on Monday 23rd June 2025.

The 2026 edition will continue to work with local businesses and organisations including but not limited to; Loch Ness Highland Resort, The Great Glen Way, Forestry and Land Scotland, SSE, Highlife Scotland, Visit Inverness Loch Ness, Pack Performance, Blazin Pizza, Dog Falls Brewing, Loch Ness Ice Cream, Red Shank Catering, XOXO and the Highland Coffee Pod.

About this Race:

Ultra X Scotland 2026 promises to push runners to their limits as they journey through Scotland’s wild and varied terrain. From mystical glens and dense pine forests to sweeping mountain trails and lochside paths, the race offers a rich blend of challenge, scenery, and adventure.

“We’re proud to see Ultra X Scotland become a staple in the global ultra-running calendar,” said Sam Heward, Co-Founder of Ultra X. “The Highlands offer a truly unique race environment, and every year the event grows in both scale and atmosphere. 2026 is set to be the biggest and best edition yet.”

With world-class support, including fully stocked aid stations, professional timing, medical coverage, and expert marshals, participants can focus on what matters: pushing themselves beyond what they thought possible.

Whether you’re chasing a UTMB® qualifying race, taking on your first ultra-marathon, or looking to experience one of the world’s most scenic trail races, Ultra X Scotland 2026 is your next big challenge.

Registration opens Monday 23rd June 2025. As is the case with all Ultra X UK events, under 23s can claim free entry.

To find out more and secure your place, visit: https://ultra-x.co/ultra-x-scotland/ 

Check out the Ultra X RIA Foundation Member profile here  .