Hot Cross fun at the ‘demanding’ 41st Highland Cross
ACTIVE OUTDOORS: The Highland Cross took place in the scorching heat at the weekend. Lauren Cameron was taking part for the second time alongside her dad and sister
There are few better ways to take in the wild beauty of the Highlands than by running, biking – and sweating – your way right through them, especially during a rare Highland heatwave.
Saturday marked the 41st edition of the Highland Cross – a 50-mile duathlon stretching from Kintail to Beauly, with 20 miles on foot followed by a 30-mile cycle.
Since it began in 1983, the Cross has raised well over £6 million for charities across the Highlands – a staggering total that may explain why hundreds of people return each year come rain, shine – or, in this year’s case, blazing sunshine.
Each three-person team is asked to raise a minimum of £500, and every penny goes toward supporting health, medical, and social care causes across the Highlands. Funds have helped a range of incredible local charities – including Highland Hospice, L’Arche Inverness, and Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre – to name just a few.
This was my second time taking part, exactly one year after swearing it would be a one-off. I entered as part of a three-person team with my dad, just as I did last year – a milestone that marked his 30th Highland Cross and my very first. While I tackled the full course solo then, this time I crossed the finish line with my sister, salt-streaked but still smiling.
This year’s heat made parts of the route especially demanding, none more so than the exposed, sun-baked track known affectionately as the “yellow brick road”. But despite the extra challenge, spirits stayed high throughout the day – not just because of the scenery, but because of the remarkable volunteers who keep the event moving.
The route itself is nothing short of epic, taking you on a coast-to-coast journey through some of the Highlands’ most dramatic landscape. It kicks off at Morvich, with a steady climb into the Kintail hills. From there, it’s 20 miles on foot through Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most spectacular glens – though with tricky terrain, water crossings, and fatigue creeping in, you're often too focused on your footing to fully appreciate the views.
The second half of the run takes you onto the yellow brick road – a long, exposed forestry track that feels even longer in the heat. It became a bit of a slog.
Even as we passed the “2 miles to go” sign, which you’d think would be encouraging, I felt quite the opposite. A gentle reminder: you're not quite there yet.
But soon enough, the changeover point came into view, and I felt genuine excitement in knowing this meant I’d finally get to sit down! After hours of running, that bike saddle felt like a luxury, even with 30 miles still to go.
A new feature this year was the trial of ankle-worn trackers – digital timing devices strapped to competitors before the start in Morvich. They added a slick, modern touch to what is already a brilliantly run event – thanks, in no small part, to the real heroes of the Highland Cross, the volunteers.
By the time you reach the final three miles – marked by another now-iconic sign – the finish line suddenly feels within reach. The final stretch into Beauly is lined with people cheering you on, as you will your legs to carry you to the end. Crossing over the finish line, you're welcomed with cheers, smiles – and most importantly, your buffet ticket!
Entirely volunteer-run, the Cross simply wouldn’t happen without their help. From mountain rescue teams to the famously upbeat water-station marshals – some of whom offered us a splash of “champagne” (aka Highland tap water) in our water cups – the Cross is entirely powered by those who generously give their time.
The spectators also play a huge role, cheering us on, offering water, and donning supportive signs. That sense of community is what keeps people coming back year after year. Their encouragement, humour, and constant supplies of jelly babies fuelled us right through to the end.
It amazed me last year, and even more so this time, how everyone – from fellow competitors to marshals and spectators – keeps such high spirits from start to finish, no matter the conditions.
Hot or not, the Highland Cross remains one of the most rewarding events I’ve ever taken part in.
