Loch Ness Marathon

Inverness, Scotland 28 Sep, 2025

The marathon begins in an exposed moorland area, where runners must be prepared for unpredictable Highland weather and potentially cold conditions before the race begins. The initial section of the course trends predominantly downhill for the first six to seven miles, though there are minor climbs, including a particularly steep section after about 4.5 miles that challenges early pacing and leg control. Runners move along the historic General Wade’s military road, traversing wooded segments and open terrain with distant views of hills on both sides and occasional glimpses of the River Foyers below.

After the early descent, the route traces the remote south-eastern shore of Loch Ness, offering long stretches of uninterrupted loch views set against wooded hillsides and open countryside. The scenery throughout is defined by the natural contours of the Highlands, with frequent changes between wide-open vistas and more enclosed, tree-lined lanes. The course is point-to-point, maintaining focus on the loch’s water and the gradual approach to civilization as Inverness draws nearer.

Elevation changes are a persistent challenge. While the initial miles are downhill, the course is rated as moderate to challenging due to undulating terrain and some notable mid- and late-race inclines, requiring runners to manage energy carefully, especially if winds pick up or temperatures fluctuate along the exposed sections. Water stations are available at regular intervals, located at approximately miles 2.9, 6.5, 9.6, 13.7, 17.3, 20, and 23.25, to support hydration as the run progresses.

As runners near Inverness, the landscape transitions from rural to urban, culminating with a crossing of the River Ness and a finish in the city center. This change of environment brings an increase in crowd support and signals the final push after many solitary Highland miles. Overall, participants experience extended solitude in nature, interspersed with short sections of community encouragement, a route that demands strategic pacing, weather readiness, and appreciation for the raw, scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Generic Marathon Time This represents the time you would expect to run a "generic" marathon in. This is a marathon with around 250 m (800 ft) of elevation gain and a temperature around 10°C (50°F). For best results, use our Race Predictor.

: :

Loch Ness Marathon Time


Statistics

Elevation
Elevation Gain 316 m 1037 ft
Elevation Low 5 m 16 ft
Elevation High 298 m 978 ft
Weather
Expected Temperature (Low) 9°C 48°F
Expected Temperature (High) 15°C 59°F
Chance of Rain 100%

Did we get something wrong? Let us know at support@statathon.com

The marathon begins in an exposed moorland area, where runners must be prepared for unpredictable Highland weather and potentially cold conditions before the race begins. The initial section of the course trends predominantly downhill for the first six to seven miles, though there are minor climbs, including a particularly steep section after about 4.5 miles that challenges early pacing and leg control. Runners move along the historic General Wade’s military road, traversing wooded segments and open terrain with distant views of hills on both sides and occasional glimpses of the River Foyers below.

After the early descent, the route traces the remote south-eastern shore of Loch Ness, offering long stretches of uninterrupted loch views set against wooded hillsides and open countryside. The scenery throughout is defined by the natural contours of the Highlands, with frequent changes between wide-open vistas and more enclosed, tree-lined lanes. The course is point-to-point, maintaining focus on the loch’s water and the gradual approach to civilization as Inverness draws nearer.

Elevation changes are a persistent challenge. While the initial miles are downhill, the course is rated as moderate to challenging due to undulating terrain and some notable mid- and late-race inclines, requiring runners to manage energy carefully, especially if winds pick up or temperatures fluctuate along the exposed sections. Water stations are available at regular intervals, located at approximately miles 2.9, 6.5, 9.6, 13.7, 17.3, 20, and 23.25, to support hydration as the run progresses.

As runners near Inverness, the landscape transitions from rural to urban, culminating with a crossing of the River Ness and a finish in the city center. This change of environment brings an increase in crowd support and signals the final push after many solitary Highland miles. Overall, participants experience extended solitude in nature, interspersed with short sections of community encouragement, a route that demands strategic pacing, weather readiness, and appreciation for the raw, scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Scroll to Top