Cape Pallarenda Trail Run

Pallarenda, Australia • 30 Aug 2026

Event overview

The Cape Pallarenda Trail Run is part of the Outer Limits Trail Run Series and takes place at Cape Pallarenda, with Race HQ at Freemason’s Park. The event is scheduled for 30 August 2026. Registration opens 1 December 2025 and closes 29 August 2026. Entry includes a race bib with electronic timing chip (keepers), course marshals, first aid support, on-course photography, finish-line refreshments and a fruit buffet. Prize packs are awarded to the top three men and women in each distance and cash prizes are awarded to top junior winners. Minimum ages are 8 years for short distances and 12 years for longer distances. The event uses a series points system; series ranking requires completion of at least four of six races in the same distance.

Distances, course and logistics

  • 5 km - Gunners Salute (beach start, out-and-back)
  • 12 km - Brolga Dreaming (Mt Marlow summit, Freshwater Trail)
  • 21 km - Heartbreak Half Marathon (Mt Marlow, Under The Radar, Forts loop)
  • 42 km - Mt Marlow Marathon (multiple loops, Smedleys, several water stations)

Trails include Mt Marlow summit, Smedleys Ridge, the Graveyard Circuit and the single track "Under the Radar," with views over Cleveland Bay, Magnetic Island and the Coral Sea. Terrain is mostly dry and rocky, ranging from technical single track to wider fire trails and steep climbs; good trail shoes are recommended. Mandatory gear for 12km, 21km and 42km includes two compression bandages, a fully charged waterproof phone, whistle, space blanket and sufficient water and nutrition. Facilities at Race HQ include toilets, drinking water, parking nearby and a playground; a bag drop is available for 42km runners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Marathon
42km – Mt Marlow Marathon
Half Marathon
21km – Heartbreak Half Marathon
12 km
12km – Brolga Dreaming
5 km
5km – Gunners Salute
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

The Goat is a fierce 1.68 km sprint trail up Castle Hill in Townsville on 20 February 2026, climbing 232 m and offering a $1,600 prize pool. Limited spots make this fast, steep challenge ideal for runners seeking an intense hill test.

Tackle Townsville's iconic Castle Hill on Sunday 22 February 2026 with 3km, 7km or 10km trail options through dry rocky single track, stairs and rock scrambles. Expect technical terrain, great views and age group prizes for all levels.

Elliot's Revenge at Alligator Creek in Bowling Green Bay National Park on 12 April 2026 offers rugged coastal and mountain trails. Choose 6 km, 12 km or 21 km with creek crossings and varied terrain.

Run scenic coastal single track on Magnetic Island at the Two Bays Trail Run, with climbs, beach sections and sweeping views over Horseshoe Bay. Choose 6, 12 or 21 km routes and enjoy wildlife sightings including resident koalas.