The race of legends
The Dragon’s Back Race® route is inspired by that of the 1992 race, in which the inaugural Dragons tackled Wales’ uniquely wild, trackless, and remote mountainous terrain.
Today, it is considered to be the toughest mountain race in the world. Participants underestimate it at their peril! Be under no illusion, this is not a ‘trail race’.
The Hatchling
Completing even half of the full race route is an incredible achievement in itself and we want to officially welcome and recognise those participants who do so; a Dragon’s Back Race® ‘lite’ if you will.
Traversing Y Mynydd Du / The Black Mountain on day five of the 1992 race ©Rob Howard
Route overview
Day by day
How far is it?
The 380km (236 mile) route is completed over 6 days.
How much ascent is there?
The total height gain is 16,400m (53,800 feet)
Terrain
The organisers are keen to reiterate that the race is not a trail running event, and the course follows summit checkpoints along the mountainous spine of Wales, where terrain is at times extreme.
Terrain type averages
Crib Goch poses a particularly rocky and technical challenge ©iancorless.com
Terrain type day by day breakdown
Have you…
Watched the 1992 film?
Read Twenty years later - An interview with Helene Whitaker and Martin Stone?
Checked out route variations over the years?
Checked out our guidance article on exploring the race route pre-event?