The Turtle and the Lamb
Event Overview
The Turtle and the Lamb is a trail running event taking place in Dinden National Park, starting from camping Nodes 5 & 6. The event features three race distances: 19 km, 6 km, and 3 km. The 3 km race is for children, referred to as "grubs" (12 & under), who must be accompanied by an adult. Junior entries (13-17 years) for the longer distances are judged on an individual basis.
Course Details
The 19 km "figure 8" course starts with a section along Davies Creek Road before turning into Davies Creek Camp Node 3. It features a significant climb to Turtle Rock, followed by a descent known as "The Hurtle Down the Turtle." After crossing a creek and passing the Race HQ, the route goes back up the valley to the Ridge Trail carpark. A second major climb leads up to the Lamb's Head (Kahlpahlim Rock) Junction, followed by a downhill section on the Kahlpahlim Rock Trail, known as "The Jam Down the Lamb." The course finishes back at Nodes 5 & 6.
The 6 km course follows the first loop of the long course, including the climb to Turtle Rock and the subsequent downhill run to the finish.
The 3 km course for children involves an out-and-back route from the start, heading 1.5 km towards the back of Turtle Rock before returning. This race starts at the same time as the 19 km event.
Logistics
The event date is 11 October 2026. Online entry is required. Entry fees are structured by age: free for those under 12, $20 for juniors (13-17), and $40 for adults (18+). Entry includes post-race food and a chance at random draw prizes. A full refund is available for cancellations made before entries close.
Venue and Accommodation
The event is held at Davies Creek in Dinden National Park. Race HQ is approximately 11 km along Davies Creek Road, past the lower camping areas. Car parking is limited. Camping is available on Saturday night at several nodes booked exclusively for participants. Domestic animals are not permitted in the national parks.
Participants are advised to bring their own race food, hydration system, plate for post-run food, and a snake bandage is recommended. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.