The Route

The Cape Wrath Ultra® is based on the Cape Wrath Trail, which is considered to be the toughest long distance backpacking trail in the UK. It crosses rugged landscapes and winds through genuine wilderness spending significant time away from civilisation. Hikers usually take at least 20 days to complete the trail. The Cape Wrath Ultra is an ultra running expedition that takes a similar route to the Cape Wrath Trail, but with our expert local knowledge the race route has been tailored for runners.

The 400km route is completed over 8 days and it offers a compelling ultra running challenge. Participants will have none of the complex logistical worries that hikers traditionally encounter when embarking on the Cape Wrath Trail or other long distance footpaths, such as the Pennine Way.

Participants are welcome to walk large sections of the route, however, the Cape Wrath Ultra is ultimately an ultra running race; on the longest days participants will not be able to exclusively walk, in order to complete the route within the cut-offs.

The Cape Wrath Explorer

Completing even half of the full race route is an incredible achievement in itself and we want to officially welcome and recognise those participants who do so; a Cape Wrath Ultra ‘lite’ if you will.

Learn more about the Cape Wrath Explorer

 The Cape Wrath 100

NEW for 2025!

Looking to experience the wilderness of the Cape Wrath Trail but not ready to embark on the full journey? Join us for the Cape Wrath 100 – New for 2025. Following the established multi-day format of the Ultra route, this unique 100-mile race is staged over 3 days and takes in the scenery, camaraderie and adventure that Cape Wrath is famous for, travelling from Fort William – Achnashellach.

ENTER THE 2025 CAPE WRATH 100

“WITH TOWERING MOUNTAINS ON ONE SIDE AND THE CRASHING OCEAN ON THE OTHER, THE CAPE WRATH ULTRA® TRAVELS THROUGH STUNNING SCENERY AND REMOTE WILDERNESS WITH EVERY STEP NORTH.”