Simpson Desert Ultra

Saturday, 5 June 2027

Birdsville, QLD

Where to stay for race weekend

Ultra

Jenna Brook (SDU Fun Creator)

About This Event

The Simpson Desert Ultra is a remote ultra‑marathon set in the heart of the Australian Outback near Birdsville. With distances from 25 km to 160 km across sand dunes, gibber plains and clay pans, it offers a rugged adventure for seasoned ultra runners.

Events & entry fees

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Saturday 5 June

160K

Start TBA

$660
100K

Start TBA

$550
75K

Start TBA

$440
50K

Start TBA

$330
25K Dusk

Start TBA

$220

Entry fees as listed on 29 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.

Quick Facts

Date: Saturday, 05 June 2027
Terrain: Trail
Location: Adria Downs Station, 25km west of Birdsville, QLD
Entry Fee: From $220 to $660
Difficulty: Challenging
Start Time: Check official website
Good for Beginners: No – distances start at 25 km and the remote desert terrain is demanding; suited to experienced ultra runners.

Event Details

Date Saturday, 5 June 2027

Location Birdsville, QLD

State QLD

Organizer Jenna Brook (SDU Fun Creator)

Course Description

The course radiates from a central hub at Adria Downs Station and consists of 25 km loops that weave over towering sand dunes, across rocky gibber plains and through cracked clay pans that can swallow a foot. Loops are clearly signed and each return to the hub for aid and camaraderie. The 160 km route begins at the historic Birdsville Hotel, using existing station roads for the first 60 km before tackling the true desert terrain. Expect endless horizons, shifting sands and the stark beauty of the Simpson Desert, all under a supportive safety net.

Getting There

Fly into Brisbane (BNE) and drive ~1 600 km north‑west, or charter a flight to Birdsville Airport (BHS). From Birdsville, a 25 km sealed road leads west to Adria Downs Station where the event hub is located. Free parking is provided on‑site. Arrive at least two hours before your start to collect race packs and attend the safety briefing.

Where to Stay

Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.

We may earn a small referral fee if you book through this map — you pay the same price.

Weather & What to Pack

June is winter in Australia. In Birdsville the daytime high averages around 22 °C while overnight lows drop to about 8 °C. Expect clear skies, low humidity and strong desert winds. Dress in layers – a breathable base layer, insulated mid‑layer and wind‑proof outer jacket. Bring a warm hat and gloves for early‑morning starts and plenty of water; the desert can be deceptively dry even in winter.

Race details last updated 5 Oct 2026

Ready to run Simpson Desert Ultra?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a medical clearance to register?

Yes. All participants must provide a doctor’s clearance before registration. This is required because of the event’s remote location and the physical demands of ultra‑marathon distances.

What mandatory gear must I carry?

All runners must carry a minimum safety kit: a fully charged GPS/phone, emergency blanket, headlamp, whistle, and enough water for at least 6 hours. Detailed gear lists are on the ‘Mandatory Gear’ page.

Are there aid stations on the course?

Yes. Aid stations are positioned at each loop’s turnaround point, providing water, electrolytes, fruit, and basic medical support. The 160 km route has additional stations every 25 km.

How is transport to the start/finish handled?

Shuttle buses run between Birdsville town centre, the Birdsville Hotel (start for the 160 km race) and the event hub at Adria Downs. The service is free for all registered participants.

Can I bring a support crew?

Support crews are welcome at the hub and at designated aid stations. They must register as volunteers and adhere to the same safety protocols as participants.