Unlike road running, where the path is predictable, trail running throws everything at you, uneven terrain, steep climbs, river crossings, even the odd wallaby. It’s part adventure, part endurance, and all about pushing your limits.
If that sounds like your kind of challenge, there’s one event that stands above the rest: the Kokoda Challenge Sydney. Taking place in the rugged terrain of Heathcote and Royal National Parks, it’s more than just a trail run. It’s a team endurance event inspired by the values of courage, mateship, endurance and sacrifice.
This guide rounds up the best trail runs in and around Sydney to help you prep, train, or just discover some of the most scenic running routes in the country.
Best Trail Running Routes in Sydney
Whether you're training for an endurance event like the Kokoda Challenge or just chasing a new weekend run, Sydney delivers. These trails are not only scenic but will work your legs, lungs, and mindset.
Manly Dam Loop
Winding through bushland and skirting a quiet reservoir, the Manly Dam Loop is a local favourite for good reason.
- Distance & Elevation: 7.3 km loop, approx. 160 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Undulating fire trails and singletrack; moderate difficulty with a few rocky climbs
- Best Time to Run: Early morning for shade and fewer mountain bikers
- Highlights: Water views, technical footing, and varied terrain that keeps you alert
The Spit to Manly Track
One of Sydney’s most iconic coastal runs, this point-to-point track winds through rugged bushland with constant harbour views.
- Distance & Elevation: 10 km one-way, approx. 230 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Well-formed paths, sandstone steps, occasional trail segments; moderate difficulty
- Best Time to Run: Weekdays or early weekends to avoid foot traffic
- Highlights: Harbour lookouts, historic Aboriginal engravings, and a finish line at Manly Beach
Bobbin Head Trail (Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park)
A tough but rewarding run that loops through dense forest and creek crossings in Sydney’s northern national park.
- Distance & Elevation: 10.5 km loop, approx. 320 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Fire trails, boardwalks, and steep climbs; moderate to hard
- Best Time to Run: Autumn or spring for cooler weather and fewer mozzies
- Highlights: River views, rainforest vibes, and that serious uphill grind
Cooper Park Trails (Eastern Suburbs)
This underrated gem weaves through a lush gully just minutes from Bondi Junction. A short run with surprising elevation.
- Distance & Elevation: 3–4 km network, 70+ m elevation gain depending on your route
- Terrain & Difficulty: Natural trails, stairs, occasional mud; easy to moderate
- Best Time to Run: Morning to avoid crowds in tight sections
- Highlights: Secluded bushland, trickling creeks, and urban serenity
Bundeena to Wattamolla (Royal National Park)
If you’re after sweeping ocean cliffs and leg-burning climbs, this one’s for you. A standout on the Coast Track.
- Distance & Elevation: 11.5 km one-way, approx. 370 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Rugged coastal trails, sand sections, exposed rock; moderate to hard
- Best Time to Run: Early morning in cooler months — it gets hot and exposed
- Highlights: Sea cliffs, Eagle Rock lookout, wildflowers in spring
Centennial Park Soft Surface Loop
A soft gravel loop around the park’s interior, great for beginners, recovery runs, or tempo sessions on softer ground.
- Distance & Elevation: 3.5 km loop, minimal elevation
- Terrain & Difficulty: Gravel and dirt path; easy
- Best Time to Run: Sunrise or sunset when the park glows golden
- Highlights: Flat terrain, shaded sections, and kangaroos
Narrabeen Lagoon Trail
Smooth, flat, and scenic, a solid long-distance trail to lock in pace or just soak in the lakeside serenity.
- Distance & Elevation: 8.4 km loop, approx. 40 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Mostly sealed path with some boardwalk; easy
- Best Time to Run: Early morning to avoid bikes and walkers
- Highlights: Lakeside breeze, birdlife, and long uninterrupted stretches
Lane Cove National Park Trails
A spiderweb of trails perfect for hill repeats, loops, or just getting lost (in the good way). Choose your own adventure.
- Distance & Elevation: Multiple routes from 3 km to 12+ km, with varying elevation
- Terrain & Difficulty: Fire trails, rocky singletrack, creek crossings; moderate
- Best Time to Run: Early morning or late afternoon
- Highlights: Shaded bush trails, native wildlife, and rugged terrain to toughen your legs
Event Spotlight: The Kokoda Challenge Sydney
If trail running is your thing and you’re ready to take it up a notch, there’s one event that stands apart from the rest: the Kokoda Challenge Sydney.
Held in Heathcote and Royal National Parks, just south of the Sydney CBD, this isn’t your typical race. With 18km, 48km and 96km distances to choose from, it’s not just about how far you go, it’s about who you go with and why you’re doing it.
This is a team event, built around the values of the Kokoda Spirit: endurance, mateship, courage and sacrifice. You’ll tackle brutal climbs, muddy tracks and mental barriers and you’ll do it together. No finishers medals for first place, because this challenge isn’t about beating others. It’s about finishing as one.
With every kilometre, you're not just testing your limits, you're supporting youth programs run by the Kokoda Youth Foundation, helping Aussie teens build resilience and purpose through real-life challenges. Don’t miss out, register now.
Tips for Getting Started with Trail Running in Sydney
Tips on how to ease into it:
- Gear up properly: Invest in a good pair of trail running shoes with grippy soles and strong ankle support. You’ll be tackling uneven terrain, loose rocks, and maybe a few muddy patches after rain.
- Pack light, but smart: A hydration vest, small first-aid kit, headlamp (for early or late starts), and some high-energy snacks are worth bringing. Don’t forget sunscreen and mozzie spray.
- Respect the trails: Stick to marked paths, leave no trace, and be mindful of hikers. Yield to uphill runners and avoid wearing headphones in narrow or shared areas, it’s safer for everyone.
- Join the community: Platforms like Strava are great for tracking your runs and connecting with others. You can also check out local events online or hop into social running groups that explore new routes weekly.
