Ikara Ultra
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Race Schedule & Entry Fees
| Distance | Date | Start Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Mile | Fri, 01 May | 09:00 | $699 |
| 100km | Fri, 01 May | TBA | $340 |
| 50km | Fri, 01 May | TBA | $200 |
| 50 Mile | Fri, 01 May | TBA | $285 |
| Buddy Runner 115km | Fri, 01 May | TBA | $50 |
| Buddy Runner 65km | Fri, 01 May | TBA | $50 |
| Buddy Runner 80km | Fri, 01 May | TBA | $50 |
Event Details
About This Event
Running event in South Australia.
Course Description
The Ikara Ultra showcases the spectacular Flinders Ranges, one of Australia's most ancient and magnificent landscapes. The flagship 100 Miler (168km) begins at Mt Little Station, following the iconic Heysen Trail to Ikara-Wilpena Pound, then traversing through historic stations including Wilcolo, Yanyanna, Trezona, and Aroona. Shorter distances start from Wilpena Pound, where all races finish. The courses wind through 600-million-year-old terrain, past Aboriginal meeting places, abandoned homesteads, and shearing sheds. Runners navigate creek crossings, mountain ascents, and rugged outback trails whilst immersed in the spiritual homeland of the Adnyamathanha people. The terrain is challenging and remote, offering a life-changing ultra-running adventure through World Heritage-calibre geology and palaeontology.
Quick Facts
Getting There
The race is based at Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges, approximately 430km north of Adelaide (5-hour drive). Follow the Princes Highway to Port Augusta, then take Route 47 through Quorn to Hawker, continuing on Wilpena Road. The 100 Mile starts at Mt Little Station with registration at Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre on Thursday afternoon (3-5pm). Limited accommodation is available at Wilpena Pound Resort—book early. Arrive the day before to collect your race pack and acclimatise to the outback environment.
Weather & What to Pack
Early May in the Flinders Ranges offers ideal running conditions with mild autumn temperatures. Expect daytime highs of 18-22°C and overnight lows of 5-10°C, though temperatures can drop significantly on exposed ridges. The region is typically dry with low humidity, but weather can change rapidly in the ranges. Prepare for both warm sunny conditions and cold nights, especially for the 100 Mile which finishes Sunday morning. Sun protection is essential—UV levels remain high even in autumn. Carry sufficient hydration as water points are spaced along these remote outback trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the qualifying standards for the 100 Mile?
You must have completed an 80-100km race within 18 months before the event. The deadline to meet this requirement is 12 April 2026.
What are the cut-off times?
The 100 Mile has a 42-hour cut-off, finishing by 3:00 AM on Sunday, 2 May 2026. Presentations are at 10:00 AM Sunday. Check the competitor handbook for specific checkpoint cut-offs for all distances.
What is a Buddy Runner?
Buddy Runners are pacers who join ultra-distance runners for specific sections: from Trezona (115km or 65km to finish) or completing the Wilpena Pound Loop (80km to finish). Entry is $50.
What support is provided on course?
Aid stations are positioned at historic homesteads and shearing sheds throughout the course. The event is run on remote outback trails, so runners must be self-sufficient with navigation, mandatory gear, and hydration between checkpoints.
When does registration close?
Online registration closes 30 April 2026. In-person registration for the 100 Mile is 31 April (note: likely meant to be 30 April), 3-5pm at Mt Little Station. Entry fees increase on 1 March, so register early for the best pricing.
Last updated: 26 December 2025
