Cape Pallarenda Trail Run

Pallarenda, Australia • 30 Aug 2026

Event details

The Cape Pallarenda Trail Run takes place at Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park with Race HQ at Freemason’s Park near Townsville. The event date is Sunday, 30 August 2026. Distances offered are:

  • 5 km
  • 12 km
  • 21 km
  • 42 km

Registration opens 1 December 2025 and closes 29 August 2026 (or earlier if sold out). Entry fees vary by distance and entry period; juniors (under 16) may enter a short distance category. Entry includes a fully marked and marshalled course, professional electronic timing with a timing chip to keep, on-course first aid and photography, course hydration (bring a personal bottle), post-race refreshments and fruit, and access to amenities at Race HQ.

Course and race information

Courses start and finish at Freemason’s Park and use the local trail network, including Mt Marlow summit, Smedleys Ridge, the Graveyard Circuit and the single track "Under the Radar". Terrain includes technical single track, wider fire trails, steep climbs, loose rocky ground and flat sections. The routes offer views over Cleveland Bay, Magnetic Island and the Coral Sea. The 42 km event has multiple water stations and a bag drop service for marathon runners. There are course cut-off checkpoints and event officials may short course or remove competitors for safety. Mandatory gear for the 12 km, 21 km and 42 km races includes two compression bandages, a fully charged waterproof phone, a whistle, a space blanket and sufficient water and nutrition. Parking is available at Walter Nesbit Park and Freemason’s Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

42 km
42km – Mt Marlow Marathon
21 km
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 rocky single track and stair climbs at the Castle Hill Trail Run in Townsville on 22 Feb 2026. Choose 3km, 7km or 10km routes with rock scrambles, course support and a lively race village with food, coffee and first aid.

Elliot's Revenge Trail Run near Townsville takes runners through scenic, undulating trails with creek crossings and rocky sections. Pick 6 km 12 km or 21 km and enjoy on course support plus a lively post race atmosphere.

Run across Magnetic Island's palm fringed beaches, granite boulders and lush trails with views of Horseshoe Bay and Sphinx Lookout. Choose 6 km, 12 km or 21 km courses that mix single track, beach sections and coastal climbs.