Paluma Ultra

Paluma Ultra

The Paluma Ultra is a 52 km ultramarathon trail race located in the World Heritage listed Wet Tropics region of Paluma Range National Park. The course sits at an elevation of approximately 1000m, offering cooler conditions than the nearby coastal regions. The terrain consists of single trail, dirt roads, and old logging trails, with less than 500 meters of bitumen over the entire distance.

The course is divided into several sections:

• Village Trails: Runners traverse tracks around Paluma village and cross Cloudy Creek.
• Rainforest: Technical single trails lead through dense tropical rainforest and across Big Crystal Creek.
• Tin Mining Trails: The route follows historical trails with creek crossings and varied elevations, passing the DCK Shelter.
• Mt Spectacle: A climb to the highest peak in the Paluma range followed by a descent.
• Dry Forest: The track transitions into dry eucalypt forest and rocky cattle country before returning to the rainforest environment.

Participants must be at least 18 years old and are required to carry mandatory safety equipment, including a hydration vest, compression bandages, an emergency blanket, a whistle, and a headlamp. The event provides two manned aid stations at the 20 km and 38 km marks, stocked with water, electrolytes, and refreshments. A drop bag service is available for these locations.

The event includes:

• 52 km individual ultramarathon

The race starts at the Gumburu Environmental Education Centre and finishes at the Paluma Village Green. Those participating in the Saturday ultra receive a discount for the Paluma Village Trail Run held the following day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.