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Highland Trail 550 — 2026
The Highland Trail 550 is a 550+ mile self-supported bikepacking race in the Scottish Highlands. With over 16,000 metres of climbing it takes in some of the most remote and rugged terrain the UK has to offer. This is my Highland Trail. Buckle in for a tale of wonder and chaos, breathtaking scenery, sub-zero temperatures, isolation and camaraderie. An adventure of a lifetime. Day 1 Gathering at the Real Food Cafe in Tyndrum, brimming with nerves and imposter syndrome. This escalated quickly. A year ago I was considering the distant prospect of a leisurely tour of the route; now here I am lining up at the start of the Highland Trail 550 — my first ever ultra bikepacking race. The weeks leading up to the race had been busy and stressful, trying to prepare my body, bike and mind for such a huge undertaking. The day started with breakfast at the RFC and the annual photograph of all riders outside. Sarah, owner of the RFC, gave an uplifting speech promising us all the wonders of fish and chips or breakfast on our return. I felt myself getting emotional as Lee Craigie spoke of Alan achieving the 50/50 male/female split for the first time, and of how the trail would teach us “humility” (oh, didn’t it just?). ...