Cape Pallarenda Trail Run

Pallarenda, Australia • 30 Aug 2026

Event Overview

The Cape Pallarenda Trail Run is the fifth event in the Outer Limits Trail Run Series. It takes place in Cape Pallarenda National Park, near Townsville. The course includes views over Cleveland Bay, Magnetic Island, and the Coral Sea.

Distances

Four distances are offered:

  • 5 km - Gunners Salute
  • 12 km - Brolga Dreaming
  • 21 km - Heartbreak Half Marathon
  • 42 km - Mt Marlow Marathon (described as Townsville's only trail marathon)

The terrain includes technical single track, wider fire trails, short steep climbs, loose rocky ground, and some flat sections. Good trail shoes are recommended.

Event Details

The event headquarters and start/finish location is Freemason’s Park in Pallarenda. Parking is available at Walter Nesbit Park and Freemasons Park. Toilet facilities and drinking water are available at the venue.

All runners must sign in and collect their bib number at Event HQ on the morning of the race. There are different bib collection start times for each distance. A race briefing is held shortly before each start.

Participant Requirements

There are mandatory gear requirements for the 12 km, 21 km, and 42 km distances. This includes two compression bandages, a charged phone, a whistle, a space blanket, and sufficient water and nutrition. Gear checks are conducted at sign-in.

Aid stations with water are provided on the longer courses, but participants are advised to carry their own bottles. A bag drop is available for 42 km runners only.

Categories and awards are given for top finishers and age groups. The event is part of a series where participants can earn points for their overall ranking by completing at least four of the six series races in the same distance category.

Post-race refreshments include water, electrolytes, and a fruit buffet. A coffee van and a sausage sizzle fundraiser are also on site. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

UTMB 20K UTMB 50K
Marathon
Mt Marlow Marathon
Half Marathon
Heartbreak Half Marathon
12 km
Brolga Dreaming
5 km
Gunners Salute
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
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