There's never been a better time to look ahead and sign up for one of the country's most scenic running events. Aviemore Half Marathon & 10K is the event in question and, with an early autumn date of October 7/8, either race would make an ideal target for a post summer challenge.

These races offer two jaw-droppingly scenic courses set amongst the atmospheric backdrop of the Cairngorms. Both distances take runners on spectacular new routes using off-road trails through the beautiful forest, loch and mountain scenery of the Glenmore Forest Park.

The Half Marathon start is at Badaguish, which is approximately 1100 ft above sea level within the Cairngorm National Park. The route begins on forest tracks which descend to Glenmore as views of Loch Morlich, Cairn Gorm and the Northern corries unfold, before a short spell down the logging trail will take competitors to cross the River Luineag.

From there, the route follows shoreside trails and nips for a very short section up the ski road to lead onto a stunning ascent and descent of forest paths above the loch, and then crosses back over the main road to take the long way round the forest tracks before arriving back at Badaguish.

The 10K also starts at Badaguish and follows the same stunning descent as the half marathon down to the shores of Loch Morlich. The route then turns right down the length of the northern shore of the loch, before turning back up to loop around Badaguish on beautiful forest tracks, finishing back where it started.

Badaguish, an accommodation site set amongst the forest and mountain scenery of the Cairngorms National Park, will host a welcoming event village with hot food and drinks, stalls from the local area and more, ensuring spectators are well catered for and this event is a great day out for the family.

Those travelling to take part will be able to book accommodation on site or nearby and make the event into a fantastic weekend away, the half marathon will take place on the Saturday with the 10K taking place the following day which will allow for those who want to compete in both.

Organisers told runABC: "This half marathon and 10K event might be set amongst the mountains, but don't let that put you off. Our routes have been planned with our runners in mind and involve no serious ascent or descent - just enough lift to leave you with some spectacular sweeping descents.

"Conditions are a mixture of mostly good solid forest tracks and paths, with a very short spell along the ski road for the half marathon – a normal good supportive running shoe is required."

If you'd like to know more visit the event website here.

Image: Aviemore Half Marathon/10K