Dragon's Back Race
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Dragon's Back Race
Dragon's Back Race is a multi‑stage mountain running event that follows the spine of Wales from Conwy Castle to Cardiff Castle over six days. The modern race was revived in 2012, following the original 1992 event. The full route covers about 380 km, with an average daily distance near 63 km, and total ascent of 17,400 m. Navigation is unmarked and competitors are self supported within race safety frameworks, requiring continuous route choice, mountain judgement and sustained forward movement across each stage.
The route crosses major mountain ranges including the Brecon Beacons, Cambrian Mountains, Rhinogs, Moelwyns and Snowdonia. Organisers also offer two shorter challenges that use parts of the same terrain. Dragon’s Fire covers the northern sections through the Carneddau, Glyderau, the Snowdon massif and the Rhinogs. Dragon’s Tail covers the southern stages across the Brecon Beacons and Cambrian Mountains. Each shorter option consists of two days and presents the same unmarked, mountain environment as the longer event.
Next scheduled event dates are 7th to 12th September 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
