Highland Trail 550

The Highland Trail 550 is a demanding self-supported mountain bike challenge through the remote landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Originally conceived as a training route for the Colorado Trail Race, it has grown into one of the UK’s defining off-road bikepacking challenges, combining wild scenery with rugged trails and unpredictable weather.

The route is approximately 550 miles (885 km) with more than 16,000 metres of climbing. It weaves through the Highlands on a mix of mountain trails, singletrack, quiet roads and rough tracks, passing lochs, remote glens and mountainous terrain. Boggy ground, technical sections and prolonged hike-a-bike stretches make progress slow, even for experienced mountain bikers.

There are no support crews, prizes or entry fees. Riders navigate independently, manage their own resupply and carry the equipment needed to handle Scotland’s changeable conditions. The route reaches elevations of around 800 metres, where cold rain, strong winds and limited visibility can turn an already tough ride into a serious expedition.

The annual group start is limited to 60 riders, with the 2027 start scheduled for 8 May at 08:30. Riders must complete the route under their own power, use only services available to all participants and carry mandatory safety and overnight equipment.