Saturday 24 October 2026
Each autumn, Glen Tanar is transformed into a glowing ribbon of headtorches and laughter as hundreds of runners and walkers arrive for the Illuminator Trail Running Festival. Set against the backdrop of our ancient Caledonian pine forest and wide open moorland, this unique night-time event is both a physical challenge and an unforgettable way to experience the glen after dark.
Whether you’re tackling your first off-road event or chasing a new personal best, the Illuminator invites you to test your legs, your headtorch – and your sense of adventure.
Each autumn, Glen Tanar is transformed into a glowing ribbon of headtorches and laughter as hundreds of runners and walkers arrive for the Illuminator Trail Running Festival. Set against the backdrop of our ancient Caledonian pine forest and wide open moorland, this unique night-time event is both a physical challenge and an unforgettable way to experience the glen after dark.
Whether you’re tackling your first off-road event or chasing a new personal best, the Illuminator invites you to test your legs, your headtorch – and your sense of adventure.
The festival offers three distances, so you can find the route that’s right for you:
8km Night Trail – Perfect for first-timers and families with older teens. Run or walk and soak up the atmosphere.
15km Night Trail – A fantastic middle-distance option with more ascent, more views and the full light zone experience.
15-mile Night Trail – A serious challenge over rugged, hilly terrain for experienced trail runners looking to push themselves.
Age limits and entry details are managed by the event organisers; please check the official Illuminator website for the latest information before booking.
On festival night you’ll find a welcoming, well-organised event with everything you need to focus on your run:
Event base in Aboyne – Registration, bag drop and post-race refreshments based at the community centre.
Clear waymarking – Reflective markers, arrows and marshals keep you on track throughout the course.
Legendary light zone – A dedicated section of the course lit up with creative lighting, music and support to lift tired legs.
Feed stations – Water, warm drinks and snacks at key points on the route and at the finish.
Chip timing and results – Professional timing so you can track your performance year on year.
All participants are required to carry compulsory kit (including a suitable headtorch) and to be prepared for changeable autumn weather in the Cairngorms. Full kit lists and safety information are available on the Illuminator website.
Make the most of your time in Royal Deeside by turning race night into a weekend escape.
After your run, return to the comfort of one of our self-catered cottages, warm up by the fire and wake to the peace of the glen the following morning. Extend your stay with woodland and riverside walks from your door, wildlife watching at The Lookout, local cafés, pubs and independent shops in nearby Aboyne, Ballater and Banchory.
Glen Tanar is both a working estate and a nationally important nature reserve, home to iconic species and precious habitats. We work closely with the Illuminator organisers to ensure the event respects wildlife, paths and the wider environment.
We ask all participants and supporters to:
- Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
- Stick to the waymarked route
- Take all litter home or use bins provided
- Respect our residents, livestock and those who live and work here year-round
Together we can keep this a special place to run, walk and explore.
If you’re ready to step into the dark and see Glen Tanar in a whole new light, the Illuminator Trail Running Festival might be your next big adventure.
Visit the Illuminator Website
