Elephant Trail Race

Friday, 16 July 2027

Cairncross State Forest, Port Macquarie, NSW

Where to stay for race weekend

Ultra

Coastal Track and Trail Runners

About This Event

Experience the Elephant Trail Race in Port Macquarie’s Cairncross State Forest – a rugged trail ultra with distances from 13km to 217km, perfect for seasoned trail runners seeking a challenging, scenic adventure.

Events & entry fees

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Friday 16 July

100km Solo

6:30am

$475
25km

7am

$200
50km

7:30am

$320
13km

7:30am

$105
2.5km Kids Kids

11am

TBA
217km

5:30pm

$730
160km

7pm

$555
100km Stage

Start TBA

$475
75km Stage

Start TBA

$355

Entry fees as listed on 14 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.

Quick Facts

Date: Friday, 16 July 2027
Terrain: Trail
Location: Cairncross State Forest, Port Macquarie, NSW
Entry Fee: Varies by distance (e.g., $730 for 217km, $555 for 160km, $475 for 100km) – see website
Difficulty: Challenging
Start Time: 6:30 AM (first wave — see schedule)
Good for Beginners: No – ultra distances and technical loops require prior trail experience

Event Details

Date Friday, 16 July 2027

Location Cairncross State Forest, Port Macquarie, NSW

State NSW

Terrain Trail

Organizer Coastal Track and Trail Runners

Course Description

The Elephant Trail Race weaves through Cairncross State Forest’s iconic Elephant trees, fire trails, rock faces and creeks. Ultra distances (217km, 160km, 100km Solo) run eight, six and four 27 km loops respectively, each featuring a ‘Death Valley’ section with steep climbs and technical descents. Direction changes every two laps are marked by pink wrist bands and hole‑punched bibs. Shorter races use a 25 km loop without Death Valley, while the 13 km event follows a separate single‑track course. Runners navigate checkpoints, back‑tracks and rolling‑coaster terrain, with on‑course support stations providing water, electrolytes and hot food.

Getting There

The race hub is located at the corner of Scrubby Creek Road and Tower Road in Cairncross State Forest, Port Macquarie. Parking and public‑transport details are not listed on the event page – please visit the official website for the latest information and plan to arrive early to set up your transition tent.

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

July is winter in Australia. In Port Macquarie typical daytime highs are around 19 °C with overnight lows near 6 °C and very low rainfall. Expect cool, crisp conditions; dress in layers, bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves, and stay hydrated despite the mild temperatures. Sun can be bright, so sunscreen is advisable.

Race details last updated 14 Oct 2026

Ready to run Elephant Trail Race?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for the Elephant Trail Race?

Registration is online via www.elephanttrailrace.com.au. Entry fees vary by distance and entry period (early bird, standard, late). Check the pricing table on the site for your chosen distance.

What time does my race start?

Start times differ by distance – e.g., 217km begins at 5:30 pm on Friday, 160km at 7:00 pm, 100km Solo at 6:30 am Saturday. Refer to the race schedule on the website for the exact time for your distance.

What gear is mandatory on race day?

All runners must wear their bib and mandatory gear, and the event is pin‑free (no pins for bins). Race belts are available for purchase. Audio devices are prohibited under a zero‑tolerance policy. Bring personal hydration and nutrition, plus spare clothing for after the run.

Is there on‑course support?

Yes. Checkpoints provide water, electrolytes, self‑serve food stations and sanitising supplies. A food truck offers hot meals for ultra runners and is open 24 hours for shorter distances. A medical tent is also on site.

Can I have a support crew?

The race is a solo event, but you may bring family, friends or a support crew to the race hub to cheer you on and assist with gear. Team running is not permitted.