SDAS Aviemore Rally
Fri 17th February '06
- Sat 18th Feb '06
Location Info
Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park is surrounded by large conifer plantations and upland landscapes managed by Forestry and Land Scotland and other estates. Popular outdoor areas include Rothiemurchus, Glenmore, and surrounding forests, all containing extensive gravel forestry roads and long-distance trails.
Set in the stunning Glenmore Forest near Aviemore, this historic sled dog rally takes place on Forestry and Land Scotland trails. Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms, the area is known for its breathtaking scenery, ancient Caledonian pines, and picturesque routes that provide the perfect backdrop for this milestone event.
The terrain ranges from flat valley floors to gradual upland slopes shaped by glacial geography. Surfaces are generally firm aggregate forestry roads, with some sandy sections depending on location.
Course Description
The Forest Enterprise aquired the Glenmore in 1923 from the Duke of Richmond and Gordon. The whole area is 3,580 acres. As this was once a sporting estate, it still contains a wide variety of birds and animals. Red Deer roam the hills overlooking Loch Morlich and there is an abundance of Roe Deer on the lower hills, joined more recently by a herd of Reindeers. Badgers, Otters, Wild Cats and Foxes can be seen and this area is a refuge for Red Squirrels and the Blue Hare.
The trail runs along the left bank of Loch Morlich giving an attractive view across the Loch to the Shepherd’s Hill Peak at 2,700 ft. It is entirely on Forestry Plantation and if you have time to look up, you may be lucky enough to see Golden Eagles which breed in the hills around the edges of the Forest. This is the proposed competition course and is described as ‘an easy walk’ in the Forest Enterprise’s brochure.
The start lies a short distance from the Car Park and Finish Point. The trail is a designated cross-country ski course and is clearly defined. The Start lies just over the wooden bridge from the car park and runs parallel to the ski road for a short distance before entering the forest.
The first part of the trail is quite demanding, but then runs along the lochside for a third of its distances and is very clearly defined with the last 500 yards to the Finish slightly downhill and straight. Note: Without snow, the trail can be tough on dogs’ feet and care should be taken at all times, even when training and only 50 yards from the Car Park!
Course Two
This is also Forest Enterprise land situated on the South of the Loch an Eilein and forms part of the vast forests at the foot of the Cairngorms. A wealth of birds and animals can be found here as well as numerous plants and fungi in season.
The trail runs parallel to the B970 Inverdruie to Kingussie road in a figure of eight through Forest Enterprise plantation affording wonderful views across to the Cairngorm mountains in the distance. This is a lower course than Glenmore, and is therefore, the proposed ‘practice’ trail.
The start and finish points lie a short distance from the Glen Feshie Road, enabling some off-road parking. The ‘D’ Class trail offers no great problems, being on the usual Forestry Commission trails with no undue hazards. The longer ‘C’ and ‘B’ Class trail does create more of a challange from both team and musher. Care must be taken on the short distance of trail where teams cross head on and please bear in mind parts of these trails are relatively course.
Directions
Take the ski road from Aviemore to Loch Morlich. After approximately 6 miles Loch Morlich will be on your right. Continue past the Loch and right into the Hayfield car park. Please follow the parking marshal’s directions. We do not recommend that you park on the road, however if you do, please do not move any cones or cause any obstructions. Anyone found doing so will be asked to leave the event.
SDAS
The Sled Dog Association of Scotland (SDAS) is a Scottish organisation dedicated to promoting and organising sled dog sports throughout Scotland. Founded in 1991 by Rick Miller, Neil Brown and Keron Miller, the association was the first group to establish a regular calendar of sled dog events in Scotland and helped place the country on the map within the UK mushing community.
The organisation runs a series of races and competitions each season, providing opportunities for both newcomers and experienced mushers to take part in sled dog sport. Events typically include dryland disciplines such as rig racing, scooter classes, bikejoring and canicross, with races often held over two-day formats that contribute to an overall championship series.
Through organised events, membership programmes and a volunteer committee, SDAS supports a community of sled dog enthusiasts across Scotland. The association emphasises sportsmanship, inclusivity and enjoyment of the sport while providing a structured environment for competitors at all levels to train, race and develop their teams.
In the UK sled dog landscape, SDAS functions as one of the main regional racing organisations, particularly focused on Scotland’s dryland racing scene and championship series events.
Upcoming SDAS events
March 2026
SDAS Race 7
Sat 28th Mar '26- Sun 29th Mar '26