Cradle Mountain Run

Event overview

The Cradle Mountain Run is a one-day traverse of the Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair Overland Track in Tasmania’s World Heritage Area. The event crosses exposed alpine terrain with slippery and rocky sections and variable weather. The run is held on the first Saturday in February and allows a maximum of sixty entrants each year. Runners must be at least 18 years old and provide verifiable evidence of prior long-distance trail running experience to be accepted.

Distances

• 78 km total length of the Overland Track.
• ~61 km distance to Narcissus from the start.
• 17 km section from Narcissus to the Cynthia Bay finish.

Entry, fees and equipment

Entry fees include membership of the event association and a $50 Overland Track fee. There is a reduced entry fee for current AUTRA members. Entries are vetted and accepted in order; organisers may refuse applications. Refunds are provided to those who do not meet entry criteria and for withdrawals before a stated date.

The event mandates compulsory gear that must be carried to the finish. Required items include waterproof jacket and pants, spare long-sleeve tops, long johns, beanie or balaclava, warm gloves, 800 calories of emergency food, survival bag, mobile phone with the Avenza course map installed, pea-less whistle, first aid supplies, national parks pass and a signed waiver. Shoes must be clean and will be sprayed with disinfectant as part of gear checks. Failure to carry required gear results in a Did Not Finish and may bar future entry.

Logistics and safety

SIAC contactless timing is used and splits are recorded at checkpoints. Checkpoints provide volunteer support and first aid; some checkpoints require withdrawal if runners cannot continue. The Narcissus checkpoint offers a private ferry withdrawal option at runner cost. Runners must carry all supplies for the full route; there is no vehicle support or drop-bag option on the track. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.