Scotland Coast to Coast: What is our classic multisport adventure?

Looking for an unforgettable endurance challenge in the Scottish Highlands? The Rat Race Coast to Coast is one of the UK’s most iconic multi-sport events, an epic adventure that takes you across Scotland from east to west, combining trail running, cycling, and kayaking in a single, unforgettable journey.

You can choose to do it all in one go for a chunky challenge, or split it over 2 days for a more entry level multi-sport whopper. Both options guarantee to give you an incredible opportunity to explore the raw beauty of the Highlands of Scotland in a totally unique way.

What Is the Scotland Coast to Coast Rat Race?

The Scotland Coast to Coast is a multi-sport endurance challenge that spans 100 miles from Cawdor Castle near Inverness on the east coast to Glen Coe on the wild west coast. Participants traverse the stunning Scottish Highlands over one or two days, tackling:

• Trail running through ancient woodlands and moorland - 34km (21 miles)

• Cycling across rugged, remote terrain - 125km (78 miles)

• Kayaking across the legendary Loch Leven - 1.6km (1 mile)

Take a look at how this adventure unfolds below on our route map or check out the

This is a journey through one of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe -The Scottish Highlands. You'll adventure through and past some of the most iconic locations in the area. Including Cawdor Castle, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness and you'll run part of the West Highland Way on your final run/trek leg before paddling across the stunning Loch Leven. This is the ultimate way to experience the natural beauty of Scotland on foot, by bike, and by boat.

Who Can Do Coast to Coast?

The Rat Race Coast to Coast is suitable for a wide range of participants. Whether you're a seasoned adventure racer or taking on your first endurance event, all you need is:

• A moderate level of fitness. For one day participants you should be comfortable running a half marathon and some practise of cycling and running or trekking straight out of the saddle, triathlon style will serve you well. For two day participants we recommend some time on your bike for up to 3/4 hours and to be comfortable running or trekking 10km as a guide for a recommended fitness level. We have some training plans you can use here.

• A sense of adventure. Scotland is famous for giving us all 4 seasons in a day, the ability to take on whatever is thrown at you and dig deep and power through in the name of adventure is essential!

• A bike (or you can hire one). We recommend a gravel bike for this event but one dayer's can get away with a road bike if they are confident they can ride it on gravel/firetracks. A mountain bike will work well for the 2 day option also. We have partnered with Cycle Hire Scotland to give you the option of hiring a bike for this adventure if you would prefer, bookings open in the Spring of the event year.

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Why Join the Scotland Coast to Coast Challenge?

Experience True Multi-Sport Adventure

This isn't just a run or a bike ride — it's a full-spectrum challenge across Scotland’s toughest and most beautiful terrain.

Unrivalled Scenery

From mountain passes to lochs, glens to forests, this is Scotland at its most dramatic — and you’ll experience it up close.

Supportive Event Format

With well-marked routes, pit stops, and expert safety crews, you’re never alone out there.

Finish with a Real Sense of Achievement

Crossing a country under your own power? That’s a story you’ll never stop telling.

How is the 2 day option split?

Below shows the difference in distances between the 1 day and the 2 day option.

One Day

Run: 11km (7 miles)

Road cycle: 71km (44 miles)

Off-road cycle: 32km (20 miles)

Road cycle: 22.5km (14 miles)

Mountain run/trek: 22.5km (14 miles)

Kayak: 1.6km (1 mile)

Two Day (day 1)

Run: 11km (7 miles)

Road cycle: 71km (44 miles)

Off-road cycle: 13km (8miles)

We operate a campsite for 2 day participants at the end of day 1 (we will transport your camping equipment from the start line for you and then onwards to the finish) or you can book accommodation in Fort Augustus and we operate a free shuttle into town.

Two Day (day 2)

Road cycle: 1.6km (1 miles)

Off-road cycle: 18km (11miles)

Road cycle: 22.5km (14 miles)

Mountain run/trek: 22.5km (14 miles)

Kayak: 1.6km (1 mile)

Key Event Details

• Distance: 100 miles

• Date: September - check the website for the next date

• Disciplines: Trail running, cycling, kayaking

• Duration: 1 day or 2 days

• Location: Across the Scottish Highlands

• Start Point: Nairn

• Finish Point: Ballachulish

• Nearest Airport: Inverness

• Number of participants: 1000

👉 Sign up for Coast to Coast here