The Aviemore Half Marathon (and 10K) is back for 2022 and will once again see runners embrace one of Scotland’s most scenic courses courtesy of the atmospheric backdrop of the Cairngorms. 

The Half Marathon will kick off proceedings on Saturday 8 October with the 10K For All taking place the following day. Both races start and finish at Badaguish Outdoor Centre, taking runners on spectacular new routes using off-road trails through the forest, loch and mountain scenery of the Glenmore Forest Park. 

The start at Badaguish is approximately 1100ft above sea level, within the Cairngorm National Park. The route will begin on forest tracks which then 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 goes out along the Rothiemurchus road before following shoreside trails. A very short section up the ski road leads 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 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. 

These races may be set amongst the mountains, but don't let that put you off. Organisers have said: “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.”

Making it an event that just keeps on giving, there will be an event village at 'base camp' with food stalls that can be enjoyed by runners and spectators throughout the event weekend. 

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

Image: Aviemore Half Marathon/Badaguish Facebook