Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
The Loch Ness Marathon draws approximately 2,500 finishers each September on a point-to-point scenic road in Inverness, United Kingdom. The point-to-point Highlands scenery is the race's defining draw. The course passes long stretches beside Loch Ness, Highland moorland, and the river approach into Inverness. Long stretches beside Loch Ness and Highland moorland climb steadily on the river approach into Inverness along this point-to-point scenic route.
Loch Ness Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
The next Loch Ness Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 6 September 2026 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.
Starts near Fort Augustus and finishes in Inverness. The course passes long stretches beside Loch Ness, Highland moorland, and the river approach into Inverness. Highland rollers along the loch reward patient early miles, with sparse but enthusiastic support in Fort Augustus and a busy Inverness finish.
The Loch Ness Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
The Loch Ness Marathon uses open online registration at lochnessmarathon.com with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the September race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. The event routinely sells out given strong demand, so early registration is advisable.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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