The Longest Night - A Winter Ride on the Highland Trail 550

In December 2021, Annie attempted to ride the Highland Trail 550 route in Scotland. If successful, she would be the first person to complete the route’s 550 rugged miles in winter. More importantly, she was fundraising for Glasgow-based charity Bike For Good.
This bikepacking challenge took her on a journey through some of the most remote and incredible scenery the Scottish Highlands can offer. From wide open glens and fast-flowing tracks, to plunging mountain passes on the west coast.
Having chosen to attempt the route over the shortest days of the year, the sun did not rise till nearly 9am and set again by 3.30pm, giving only 7 hours of daylight and a long, dark night.
Scottish winter weather is famously unpredictable, and Annie dealt with snow, rain and gale force winds. She also had to prepare for numerous river crossings, sometimes more than knee-deep and very cold.
Deep snow on one of the higher passes nearly ended her attempt early, but she persevered through the drifts and stormy weather with only a small amount of crying. Luckily for her, better weather arrived for the last few days of riding, allowing her to enjoy some of the stunning scenery and to finally complete the ride in 7 days and 18 hours.

[@AllenBoardman]

I’ve lost count how many times I’ve watched this. Absolutely incredible taking this on in the winter. So, so much respect. I’m sure I’ll be watching this again.

[@Shewie01]

The only problem with this film is I can only give it a thumbs up once, awesome job Annie

[@yanolamonza8290]

Incredible film showing the highs and lows of Scottish Weather. What an achievement. I Live in Scotland but i'm only just venturing into the longer distance ultra biking stuff. Videos like these are really inspiring for the crazy few of us that want to push the limits.

[@ridetreeline]

I have watched Annie's winter HT film a good few times now and it is totally absorbing, and a mind boggling story of adventure, resilience, and courage. What an absolute inspiration. I will NEVER complain about wet feet or cold hands again! A must watch. Well done Annie.

[@hhirche]

Definitely one of the best and most inspiring bikepacking videos which I‘ve watched in a long time! I love the calm mood and the unagitated, authentic style. I felt profound sympathy for Annie going through all the ups and downs. Outstanding project, both the ride and the video!

[@alanhanley9515]

Watched many times and still 'Nails' is the only word.

[@libbyw7164]

What a film. Absolutely incredible, and such an inspiring ride.

[@ahairyhaggis1449]

What true spirit. You are the exact example of an adventurer

[@sargeroberts2430]

THAT....was an adventure.

[@juanQuedo]

🤯 Annie, you crazy! Even that deer at

[@soloist777]

Annie, I think you're so courageous! You are my hero!! I wish we could hang out together in warm cafes and talk bikes and adventures.

[@stuarthenderson7354]

WOW, Chapeau fantastic inspiring video.

[@mattsankey4544]

What an epic ride fair play 👍🏻

[@pb2125]

Well done a inspirational young woman

[@fionacorfe2961]

Hey annie. Just getting into biking myswlf right now ... i remembered youd made a video about this ride ... thought id watch it again as a bit of inspiration ... and just wow! I think you capture the beauty of real raw adventure perfectly. Those golden moments mean so much ... but only because of the effort and suffering to get them. Love it , fi

[@turcogrande]

Inspirational. Thank you for sharing.

[@matthewf4402]

Outstanding effort, the ride, the video both truly impressive. Thank you for sharing.

[@Shooterthecat1]

Fantastic effort and storytelling!!!

[@kevinnangle624]

Wow! Thank you for sharing.

[@daklight2792]

Totally awesome video and ride!