The Great North Trail (Cape Wrath) is a two-stage cycling route covering 132 km across northern Scotland with a total climb of 1,378 metres. It starts at Rosehall and finishes at the end of the trail near Cape Wrath. The route passes through small settlements and rural places such as West Merkland, Eriboll, Durness, and Keoldale.
The first stage from Rosehall to Durness is the longest at nearly 115 km and includes most of the climbing with 1,108 metres of elevation gain. This stage features several climbs, including one starting at 30.7 km that is 2.5 km long with an average gradient of 7.6%, peaking at 11.8%. The highest point of the whole route is 408 m. There are six water or food stops available along this stage.
The second stage is much shorter at 17.3 km, running from Durness to the final point on the Great North Trail near Cape Wrath. It has 270 metres of climbing with three moderate climbs, the longest being 2.2 km at 2.7% average gradient. There is one water or food stop on this stage.
The route lies entirely within Great Britain, with no border crossings. The facts do not specify the best season or typical temperatures for this route. Riders should note the number of water or food stops is limited, particularly on stage two, which may influence planning. The trail passes through small communities and natural features along the coast and hills beneath elevations up to 408 m.
