A beach finish in the Scottish Highlands might sound like a summer adventure, but the Loch Morlich Running Festival has other ideas. On Sunday 3 January 2027, runners will once again make their way through Glenmore Forest towards the golden sands of Loch Morlich, with the Cairngorm mountains providing a spectacular winter backdrop.

Organised by Fitnessat58°, the event celebrates its ninth edition, having established itself as a popular way to welcome the New Year. The 2026 festival took place in snowy conditions, with runners of all ages braving the January weather to enjoy the forest trails and distinctive lochside setting.

There are two distances to choose from, although they're a little longer than their familiar names suggest. The advertised 5K covers approximately 5.6K, while the 10K extends to 11.2K. Both routes begin at The Hayfield in Glenmore and take participants through the surrounding forest before finishing beside Loch Morlich beach.

The festival welcomes runners, joggers and walkers, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to begin the year with a fresh challenge rather than another ambitious resolution. Trail shoes are recommended, particularly given the possibility of wintry conditions underfoot.

The atmosphere is another important part of the occasion. Fitnessat58° founder Sam Cairns will lead a group warm up before the noon start, while chip timing provides results on the day. Finishers can look forward to bespoke medals and home baking, with prizes for the leading three men and women in each race.

Families are welcome, with reduced entry fees for runners under 16, while dogs can also accompany participants provided they remain on leads.

After the snowy scenes of 2026, nobody can predict what the Cairngorms will deliver this January. But whether the forest is dusted with snow or simply looking magnificent in the winter sunshine, Loch Morlich promises a memorable start to the running year.

Entries are now open, with runners able to secure their place through the runABC Race Hub.

Image Courtesy Fitnessat58degrees on Facebook.