Things we've overheard at Illuminator:
Oh look at the size of that hill! (Craigendinnie Hill)
Why did I sign up for this?
Gin and tonic at the bottom of the hill (repeated as a mantra - our favourite!)🤣
What can you be heard saying during Illuminator? 😂
We're well and truly into the light nights with plenty of time for running in the daylight before and after work.
We've been checking over all our winter kit before putting it away for the summer. We've charged all our headtorches so they are ready to go when we next need them.
Our kit list is on our website (link in bio) so if it's your first time at illuminator, take a look and check out what you might need. You might get some kit in end of season sales...and don't forget to check out our Race Retail Partner, @outandbackstore
This isn’t just a run… it’s an experience.
As the sun sets over the Glen Tanar estate and the trails come alive, Illuminator transforms the ancient forest into something truly special. Head torches flicker through the trees, the atmosphere builds, and every step feels like part of an adventure.
You're not here for a fast time, just a good time and an experience like no other! Fancy joining us? Sign up on the link in our bio.
Are you new to night trail running or just looking for a shorter adventure? The 8km at Illuminator is the perfect way to experience the magic of the trails.
This distance is ideal for:
🏃 First-time trail runners
🚶 Walkers who want to soak up the atmosphere
👟 Anyone looking for a fun, social challenge
Expect a great atmosphere, supportive vibes, our amazing Light Zone with feed stations and wonderful camaraderie among everyone who takes part.
Sign up below if you love the idea of a new challenge. #TrailRace #Aberdeenshire #Aboyne #GlenTanar #NightRace #Illuminator2026 #8kmRace #Walking #Hiking
One of our frequently asked questions is about the cut off times for the races. We need cut off times to help keep everyone safe during the Illuminator Race.
All runners must reach Checkpoint 8 (near the Light Zone) by 22:00. This is approximately 2.5 miles (4.5km) from the finish. The 15 mile race is the first to go off at 18:30; the 15km at 18:45 and the 8km at 19:00. Please plan your pacing accordingly and look out for signage and marshals on the route.
This measure is in place to ensure the safety of all participants out on the course in the dark and challenging terrain.
If you have any other burning questions, then you can find them on our website under FAQs or drop us a message.
We are now counting down to the Glen Tanar Trail Running Festival on 25th and 26th July - only 12 weeks to go!
Don't forget that you can secure UTMB Index points towards races at our 25km and 55km races. These are proving very popular this year!
If you haven't secured your entry then click on the link in our bio to join us in the beautiful Glen Tanar in July. We have ordered the same weather as last year... #Aboyne #TrailRunning #GlenTanar #TrailRunners #EnterNow #GlenTanarEstate #Aberdeenshire #VisitAberdeenshire #TrailRace
Early Bird entries for the Illuminator Run end TONIGHT at midnight!
This is your final opportunity to secure your place at the Tier 2 lower price before the entry prices increase.
Sign up today on the link in our bio! #EarlyBirdPrices #EarlyBird #Aboyne #15MileRace #TrailRunning #Banchory #GlenTanar #EnterNow #TrailRunners
Only 48 hours left to join us at Illuminator at the Tier 2 Early Bird prices!
We don't want you to miss out so sign up today and we will see you on the start line in October. #Illuminator2026 #EarlyBirdPrices #EarlyBird #NightRace #GlenTanarEstate #Aberdeenshire #Aboyne #RunningInTheDark #DarkSkies
If you are thinking of joining us in October and just hadn't got around to it, then now is a good time to enter as there is only one week left of the early bird prices!
C'mon, you know you want to… #EarlyBirdPrices #Illuminator2026 #15MileRace #TrailRace #EarlyBird #RunnersofInstagram #VisitAberdeenshire
Illuminator wouldn't be the event it is without our dedicated team of volunteers.
We always like to look after our volunteers and offer a role with which they feel comfortable so let us know on the form on our website - link in bio - head for the volunteer page.
The best bit is the free place for your friend to run the event! So team up with your buddies and hatch a plan...
There are now only TWO WEEKS left to grab your Illuminator entry at Early Bird prices!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable night-time adventure through the legendary Light Zone, the incredible atmosphere, and that famous finish line buzz.
Prices rise after 30th April, so now’s the time to secure your spot! #Illuminator2026 #EarlyBirdPrices #HeadTorchRun #15kmRace #NightRace #8kmRace #GlenTanarEstate
