The Great Pyramid Race
Official WebsiteAbout This Event
The Great Pyramid Race is a challenging 12 km trail event set in Norman Park, Gordonvale. Climb Walsh’s Pyramid, enjoy tropical scenery and a festive community atmosphere – perfect for seasoned endurance runners.
Events & entry fees
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Saturday 7 August
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Great Pyramid Race8am$180
-
3km Cross CountryStart TBA$45
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1800m RaceStart TBA$30
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Charity Fun RunStart TBA$35
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Dash for CashStart TBATBA
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Half Pyramid RaceStart TBA$95
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Race to the BaseStart TBA$55
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
- Saturday, 07 August 2027
- Terrain
- Trail
- Location
- Norman Park, Gordonvale, QLD
- Entry Fee
- $180 (standard)
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Start Time
- 8:00 am
- Good for Beginners
- No – the race involves a steep uphill scramble and requires a high level of fitness; beginners may prefer the Half Pyramid or shorter events.
Event Details
Course Description
The 12 km Great Pyramid Race starts at Norman Park in Gordonvale and follows a marked chute onto Mill Street, then tracks along Mill Road before turning onto the old Bruce Highway bridge and through a tunnel onto the headlands. Runners ascend the cane‑headland to Moss Road, reach the Pyramid car park and tackle the steep, rugged trail up Walsh’s Pyramid to the summit. The course mixes sealed road sections with steep, single‑track climbs and a controlled downhill free‑fall back to the start. Checkpoints at the base, halfway point and summit ensure safety, while panoramic rainforest and sugar‑cane views reward every stride.
Getting There
The race is held at Norman Park in the suburb of Gordonvale, north of Cairns. Parking and public‑transport options are provided on‑site, but details vary each year. For the latest information on parking locations, bus routes and recommended arrival times, please visit the official event website.
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
August is winter in tropical north Queensland, bringing dry, mild conditions. Daytime temperatures in Gordonvale typically range from 20 °C to 26 °C with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. Early mornings can be cooler, so layered clothing is advisable. Even in winter the race can feel warm on the ascent, so a compulsory hydration backpack and sun protection are essential.
Race details last updated 18 Oct 2026
Ready to run The Great Pyramid Race?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I register for the Great Pyramid Race?
Registration is online via the official website. The standard entry fee for the 12 km race is $180 (GST‑free). No refunds are offered, so be sure of your commitment before registering.
What gear must I bring on race day?
A hydration backpack is compulsory and must be worn at all times. You must also wear the provided race singlet and your bib number throughout the event. Personal music devices and outside assistance are not permitted.
Are there time limits I need to meet?
Yes. Runners must reach the halfway checkpoint on the pyramid within 1 hour 30 minutes of the start and must finish the full course within 4 hours, otherwise you will be recorded as DNF.
Can I register on the day of the race?
On‑day registration is not available for the main events. The Dash for Cash may allow same‑day entry, but you should verify the details on the official website.
What about parking and transport?
The event is based at Norman Park, Gordonvale. Specific parking locations and public‑transport options are listed on the race website; we recommend arriving early to secure a spot.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races.
- Cairns parkrun Sat 7:00am · 21 km away · Cairns North
- Glenoma parkrun Sat 7:00am · 23 km away · Brinsmead
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