You Yangs Trail Running Festival
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Race Schedule & Entry Fees
| Distance | Date | Start Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100km | Sun, 12 Apr | 08:00 | $250 |
| 100mi | Sun, 12 Apr | 08:00 | $380 |
| 50km | Sun, 12 Apr | 08:00 | $135 |
| 30km | Sun, 12 Apr | 09:00 | $110 |
| 42km | Sun, 12 Apr | 09:00 | $125 |
| 15km | Sun, 12 Apr | 10:00 | $80 |
| 21km | Sun, 12 Apr | 10:00 | $100 |
| 5km | Sun, 12 Apr | 11:00 | $55 |
Event Details
About This Event
Trailsplus trail running event exploring scenic bushland and trails. Known for well-marked courses through natural terrain, catering to trail running enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Course Description
The You Yangs Trail Running Festival offers a spectacular weekend of trail running through one of Victoria's most iconic regional parks. The course features a diverse mix of terrain, from flat wooded bike trails to challenging rocky mountain ascents. Each distance follows a loop-based format from the central Turntable Carpark, allowing runners to venture into different areas of the park before returning to base. The highlight is the steep climb to Flinders Peak, rewarding determined runners with breathtaking views across Port Phillip Bay. The varied landscape includes open rocky sections, shaded forest paths, and technical single-track trails. The loop design creates excellent spectator opportunities, with supporters able to cheer runners multiple times throughout their race.
Quick Facts
Getting There
The race starts at Turntable Carpark, located at 10 Branch Road, Little River, approximately 60km southwest of Melbourne. From the Princes Freeway, take the Little River exit and follow signs to You Yangs Regional Park. Free parking is available at the venue. Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your allocated start time for bib collection and race briefing. Public transport options are limited to this location, so driving or carpooling is recommended.
Weather & What to Pack
July is mid-winter in Victoria, with temperatures typically ranging from 6-14°C. Mornings at the You Yangs can be particularly cold, often foggy with minimal wind protection on exposed sections. Pack layers including a warm base layer, long-sleeved running top, and gloves for the start. The rocky terrain can be slippery when wet or frosty, so appropriate trail shoes with good grip are essential. Despite cooler temperatures, hydration remains important, especially for ultra distances. Be prepared for variable conditions as weather can change quickly in the regional park environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does registration open and close?
Registration opens with Super Early Bird pricing on 26 February at 8pm. Standard pricing runs from 27 March to 26 June. Late registration closes on 13 July. Bib collection is on race morning only - bibs are not mailed out.
What are the check-in and start times for each distance?
Saturday: 100km/100mi check-in 6:45am (start 8am), 42km check-in 7:45am (start 9am), 21km check-in 8:45am (start 10am). Sunday: 50km check-in 7am (start 8am), 30km check-in 8am (start 9am), 15km check-in 9am (start 10am), 5km check-in 10am (start 11am).
Is this race suitable for first-time trail runners?
The 5km and 15km distances are excellent introductions to trail running, with well-marked courses and good support. The terrain includes both easy wooded trails and challenging rocky sections. Longer distances suit experienced trail runners comfortable with steep climbs and technical terrain.
What should I bring on race day?
Essential items include trail running shoes with good grip, layered clothing for cold July mornings, hydration pack or bottles, energy nutrition, and a headlamp for ultra-distance runners. The race briefing document will be emailed to all competitors with detailed requirements.
Can spectators watch the race?
Yes! The loop-based course design makes this an excellent spectator race. All runners pass through the central Turntable Carpark multiple times during their race, allowing supporters to see and cheer for their runners throughout the event.
Last updated: 26 December 2025
