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Ultra Tour of the Quarries 50 Mile Ultra Marathon
The Ultra Tour of the Quarries (UTQ) is a 50 mile ultra marathon that offers far more than just a physical challenge. Set against the dramatic backdrop of North Wales, this race invites you to run through history, traversing the rugged and atmospheric landscapes of the UNESCO World Heritage Slate Landscape.
Unlike the typical mountain ultra that focuses solely on summits, the UTQ weaves a narrative through the slate-mining heritage of Eryri (Snowdonia). It is a route where every climb and descent connects you to the centuries of industry that shaped these valleys.
Course
This ultramarathon begins and ends at the coast in Porth Penrhyn, Bangor, historically the gateway where slate was shipped to the world. From the harbour, runners head inland, leaving the sea behind to ascend into the heart of the mountains.
The 50 mile (approx 80km) course is a carefully curated loop that follows significant sections of the Snowdonia Slate Trail. You won’t just be running on trails, you will be passing through abandoned slate villages, navigating technical forest tracks, and crossing wild, desolate moorlands that feel a world away from civilisation.
Expect a variety of terrain underfoot. The route transitions from river gorges and valley floors to higher mountain passes, offering a "best of" experience of the region. While it shares some DNA with its longer sibling, the Slate Trail Ultra, the UTQ stands on its own as a fast-paced yet formidable challenge.
With roughly 2,300m of ascent, the course packs a punch without being insurmountable for those stepping up to the 50 mile distance. The generous 24-hour cut-off makes it an achievable target for determined first-timers, while the punchy climbs and technical sections provide a genuine race for seasoned veterans.
Whether you are chasing a fast time or simply want to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of North Wales, the UTQ delivers an ultra marathon that stays with you long after you cross the finish line at Porth Penrhyn. For full race details, including kit requirements and registration info, please visit the official race website.
