Dunoon Dirt Dash
📍 Cowal Peninsula, Scotland
gravelmtb
Date
26–27 September 2026
Distance
138km
Elevation
2,150 m
Difficulty
gravelmtbbeginner friendly
DexShell Cateran Dirt Dash
Cairngorms National Park, Scotland · 29–30 May 2027
Difficulty: 3/5 — Hard
This two-day, 97km self-supported bikepacking event features 1620m of climbing through Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, offering a balanced challenge of gravel, singletrack, and technical sections. It serves as an accessible introduction to multi-day cycling adventures.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 97 km · 61 miles
- Elevation
- 1,620 m
- Surface
- singletrack, gravel, dirt, tarmac
- Typical W/kg
- 2.5–3.5
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is ideal for new bikepackers or those seeking a moderately challenging, non-competitive adventure on mixed terrain in a beautiful natural environment.
Who will struggle
Riders unaccustomed to self-supported navigation, multi-day riding with gear, significant climbing, or technical off-road sections may find this event demanding.
Training focus
Focus on developing endurance for multi-day efforts, practicing off-road bike handling skills, and building strength for sustained climbing, especially on rougher surfaces.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What does the entry fee include?+
The £99 entry covers a GPX route file, an electronic rider briefing, access to a support vehicle, start and finish at a cafe, overnight camping with toilets and water, an evening meal, and breakfast.
What type of bicycle and tires are recommended for this event?+
Mountain bikes and gravel bikes are recommended, with a minimum tire size of 45mm. E-bikes are permitted, but riders should inform the organizers upon registration.
How will riders navigate the course?+
The course is not marked; participants are responsible for their own navigation using a GPX file provided electronically by the organizers before the event.
What essential gear must riders bring?+
Riders must bring a helmet, front and rear lights, sufficient water, an emergency blanket or sleeping bag, waterproof jacket, first aid kit, phone or GPS for navigation, multitool, spare tube, tire levers, puncture repair kit, and shelter (tent/bivvy bag/tarp). Additionally, a bowl, mug, fork, and spoon are required for meals.
What is the terrain like on the route?+
The route consists of singletrack, gravel paths, forestry roads, and public roads, including some technical sections that may necessitate pushing your bike at times.
Is the Cateran Dirt Dash a competitive race?+
No, it is explicitly stated as a non-timed, self-supported reliability trial with an emphasis on adventure and community rather than competition.