Operation CAIRNGORMS

Operation CAIRNGORMS

April 26, 2025 | Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Distance: 7.5 / 15.5 / 26.5 +/- miles

Weight: 20 lbs / 9 kg dry

Elevation: 2,805 / 4,662 / 7,536 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Start Location: Cairngorm Cafe Benches

Event Finish Time: Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 1800 hrs

Finish Location: Cairngorm Cafe Benches

Situation

Operation CAIRNGORMS takes place in the world-famous Cairngorms National Park, a stunning landscape in the heart of Scotland. Known for its majestic mountains, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is also renowned for its distilleries, producing some of Scotland's finest whiskies. Located just a couple of hours from Edinburgh, the Cairngorms offer a perfect escape into nature. Candidates can choose from three route options: 7.5, 15.5, and 26.5 miles, each providing an immersive and challenging experience in this breathtaking setting.

Mission

Operation CAIRNGORMS MINI. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 7.5 +/- mile route in under 4 hours to pass and under 2.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation CAIRNGORMS Dog Tag.

Operation CAIRNGORMS. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 15.5 +/- mile route in under 6 hours to pass and under 5 hours to earn the GBF Operation CAIRNGORMS Dog Tag.

Operation CAIRNGORMS MAX. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 26.5 +/- mile route in under 10 hours to pass and under 9 hours to earn the GBF Operation CAIRNGORMS MAX Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Cairngorm Cafe Benches. At 0730 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0800 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed.

The route for Operation CAIRNGORM MINI is here.

The route for Operation CAIRNGORM is here.

The route for Operation CAIRNGORM MAX is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 20 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• LifeStraw
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice. Scotland can be wet and cold, or hot and sunny.

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 80. Minimum number of candidates 25.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.