Rainbow Beach Trail Festival
Rainbow Beach, Australia • 8 Aug 2026
Event overview
The Rainbow Beach Trail Festival takes place on 8 August 2026 at Rainbow Beach, based at Phil Rogers Park. The trail course passes sand cliffs of the Cooloola Coast and coloured sands above the Coral Sea, plus sections of lush forest, perched lakes, rising sand dunes and a historic lighthouse. Course surfaces include single track, fire roads and beaches. GPX and KML course files are provided in the event Maps section.
Race formats and entry
- 11 km
- Half Marathon (21 km)
- Marathon
No entries are available on the day. Minimum age limits apply: 11 km - 12 years; Half Marathon - 15 years; Marathon - 18 years. All finishers receive an event memento. Refunds are available until 25 July 2026 and are subject to a $30 administration charge. Transfers to another person or event are not permitted.
Course and logistics
The course is marked with reflective orange and silver flagging tape (about every 250 m), red directional arrows and red crosses to indicate incorrect routes. Checkpoints 1, 3 and 5 provide water, electrolyte, lollies, fruit and small snacks but no cups; checkpoints 2 and 4 provide minimal water. The event operates a no-cup policy and does not provide drop bags. Mandatory gear includes a mobile phone with emergency contacts, a race bib worn on the front, a compression bandage and hydration: minimum 1.5 litres for marathon, minimum 500 ml for half and 11 km. Recommended items include sunscreen, insect repellent, bite and sting treatment and a wet weather jacket. Support crews are allowed only at the start/finish area; spectators may view runners at Phil Rogers Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.