Alice Springs Running Festival
Official WebsiteAbout This Event
Experience the Alice Springs Running Festival on 18 July 2027 – a trio of marathon, half‑marathon and 10 km run & walk set amidst the iconic red‑centre trails of Simpsons Gap. Perfect for seasoned racers and beginners alike.
Events
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Sunday 18 July
-
Marathon7am
-
Half Marathon7:30am
-
10km Run & Walk8:30am
Quick Facts
- Date
- Sunday, 18 July 2027
- Terrain
- Trail
- Location
- Alice Springs, NT
- Entry Fee
- Check official website
- Difficulty
- Moderate to Challenging
- Start Time
- 7:00 AM (Marathon)
- Good for Beginners
- Yes – 10 km run & walk is beginner‑friendly; marathon is more demanding
Free training
Training for Alice Springs Running Festival?
Race day is Sun 18 Jul 2027, 37 weeks away. Free training plans start up to 20 weeks before race day, so a plan for it can start from 1 March. Save it now; until then, 12 weeks of building is a good start.
Free with a MyRaceHub account. Saves the race to your races and opens training setup.
Event Details
Course Description
All three races start and finish at Simpsons Gap, the gateway to the West MacDonnell National Park. Runners head up Darken Drive to the ranger’s station before turning onto the meandering Simpsons Gap path, winding through stunning bushland and rugged ranges. The marathon follows an out‑and‑back route to the park’s farthest point, while the half‑marathon and 10 km cover shorter loops before retracing the same scenic trail back to the finish. Expect mixed terrain, gentle climbs and breathtaking desert vistas throughout.
Getting There
All races start and finish at Simpsons Gap, located on the edge of the West MacDonnell National Park in Alice Springs. Parking, shuttle buses and other transport options will be detailed on the official website, so please check there for the latest information.
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 the Northern Territory. Typical daytime highs are around 21 °C with overnight lows dropping to about 4 °C. Expect clear skies and low humidity. Dress in layers – a warm jacket for the early start, breathable shirts for the day, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Bring a water bottle and consider a light windbreaker for the cooler morning hours.
Race details last updated 13 Oct 2026
Ready to run Alice Springs Running Festival?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I register for the festival?
Registration details will be released closer to the event date. Please visit the official website for the latest information and to sign up.
What are the cut‑off times for each distance?
Marathon cut‑off is 1:30 PM, Half‑Marathon cut‑off is 12:00 PM, and the 10 km cut‑off is 11:00 AM. Arrive at least 20 minutes before your start time.
What should I wear and bring on race day?
Wear trail‑appropriate shoes, layered clothing for winter temperatures, and a hat or sunglasses for sun. Bring a water bottle; additional hydration stations will be placed along the course.
Are there aid stations and bag drops?
Aid stations will be positioned at key points on the course. Bag‑drop and shuttle‑bus details will be announced closer to the event – check the official website for updates.
Is the event suitable for beginners?
Yes – the 10 km run & walk is beginner‑friendly, while the half‑marathon and marathon are more demanding. All participants must be at least 12 years old for the 10 km, 16 for the half‑marathon and 18 for the marathon.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races, or an easy shakeout the day before this one.
- Alice Springs Telegraph Station parkrun Sat 7:00am · 17 km away · Irlpme
More Races in NT
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