Run Larapinta Stage Race

Thursday, 19 August 2027

Alice Springs, NT

Where to stay for race weekend

Ultra

Rapid Ascent

Official Website

← 2026 edition & results

About This Event

Four‑day trail stage race through Alice Springs' iconic Red Centre. Tackle rugged gorges, rocky ridges and desert valleys on the Larapinta Trail – perfect for seasoned trail runners seeking a rugged outback challenge.

Events & entry fees

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Thursday 19 August

39km

6:40am

$422
45km

7am

$459
34km

7:20am

$422
30km

7:30am

$413
22km

7:30am

$351
18km

8am

$351
19km

6:10pm

$202
11km

6:10pm

$190

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: Thursday, 19 August 2027
Terrain: Trail
Location: Alice Springs, NT
Entry Fee: Varies by distance; see website
Difficulty: Challenging
Start Time: 6:40 AM (first wave — see schedule)
Good for Beginners: No – the race includes rugged, technical sections and long distances; beginners may find it demanding.

Event Details

Date Thursday, 19 August 2027

Location Alice Springs, NT

State NT

Organizer Rapid Ascent

Course Description

Run Larapinta follows the world‑renowned Larapinta Trail across the MacDonnell Ranges. Stages launch from the historic Old Telegraph Station and wind through stunning landmarks such as Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Birthday Waterhole turn‑off, Ochre Pits and Ellery Creek. Runners face steep red‑rock gorges, narrow ridge‑top ledges, dry savannah flats and occasional waterhole climbs. The trail is well marked by National Park arrows, but participants must carry GPS files and be prepared for technical rocky sections and mandatory water loads. Each day ranges from 11km to 45km, offering a mix of endurance and technical skill in a breathtaking desert landscape.

Getting There

Runners arrive at Alice Springs Airport where a shuttle service transports participants to the Mercure Alice Springs Resort (or Discovery Parks). Accommodation is recommended at these venues. For parking, public transport and exact arrival times, please refer to 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 in the Northern Territory is winter, with typical daytime highs around 24 °C and chilly nights dropping to about 6 °C. Expect clear skies and low humidity. Dress in layers – a warm jacket for early‑morning starts, breathable shirts for daytime, and a hat and sunscreen. Carry enough water and stay hydrated, especially during the cooler mornings when the desert can feel deceptively dry.

Race details last updated 22 Oct 2026

Ready to run Run Larapinta Stage Race?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enter the race?

Entries are allocated by ballot. The ballot opens on 14 Oct 2026 at 12 pm AEDT and closes on 18 Oct 2026 at 11:59 pm AEDT. The field limit is 200 runners (100 per course). Entries close on 9 Aug 2027 at 9 am AEST, or when the field fills.

What are the start times for the stages?

Start times vary by stage and distance (e.g., 6:10 pm for the 19 km stage, 6:40 am for the 39 km stage). Check the official website for the full schedule of each stage.

What gear must I carry on the trail?

Runners must carry a GPS file of the course, a headtorch for dark sections, and a minimum water load (typically 3 L). Backpack weight should be 5‑6 kg and include mandatory items such as a first‑aid kit and emergency communication device. Detailed gear lists are on the event site.

Is accommodation provided?

Recommended accommodation is at the Mercure Alice Springs Resort or Discovery Parks Alice Springs. Airport shuttles run on arrival days. For booking details and other options, visit the official event page.