Ikara Ultra

Friday, 30 April 2027

Ikara / Flinders Ranges, SA

Where to stay for race weekend

Trail Ultra Marathon

MMI Events

About This Event

Experience the iconic outback at Ikara Ultra – a trail ultra‑marathon set in the dramatic red‑rock landscape of Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges. Ideal for seasoned ultra‑runners seeking rugged terrain, stunning scenery and a true community vibe.

Events & entry fees

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Friday 30 April

100 Mile (160.9 km)

9am

$699
100 KM

9am

$339
50 Mile (80.5 km)

9am

$279
50 KM

9am

$189
115km

Start TBA

TBA
80km

Start TBA

TBA
65km

Start TBA

TBA

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: Friday, 30 April 2027
Terrain: Trail
Location: Wilpena Pound, Ikara-Flinders Ranges, South Australia, SA
Entry Fee: From $50 (see registration for each distance)
Difficulty: Challenging
Start Time: Check official website
Good for Beginners: No – distances are ultra‑marathon length and require prior ultra‑running experience.

Event Details

Date Friday, 30 April 2027

Location Ikara / Flinders Ranges, SA

State SA

Terrain Trail

Organizer MMI Events

Course Description

The Ikara Ultra courses wind through the ancient heart of the Flinders Ranges, starting at the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre and venturing across red‑soil tracks, rocky ridges and sweeping valleys. Runners tackle iconic sections such as the climb to Mt Little, the Parachilna Trailhead, and the remote Trezona Campground, with aid stations positioned at historic saddles and waterholes. Distances range from 50 km to the epic 100 mile, each offering panoramic views of towering quartzite formations and the timeless outback sky. Expect a mix of single‑track, fire‑track and gentle gravel, with challenging elevation gains balanced by moments of serene desert quiet.

Getting There

The event is based at Wilpena Pound Resort in the Flinders Ranges. Organisers provide shuttles from the Visitor Centre to Mt Little Station (100 mile start), Parachilna Trailhead (50 mile start) and Trezona Campground (50 km start). Accommodation is primarily at the Wilpena Pound Resort. For detailed parking, transport schedules and arrival recommendations, visit the official Ikara Ultra 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

April in South Australia is autumn, bringing mild days and cool nights in the Flinders Ranges. Expect daytime highs of 18‑22 °C and night lows around 5‑10 °C, with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. Dress in layered, breathable clothing; a warm base layer, wind‑proof jacket and hat are advisable. Pack enough water and electrolyte supplies, as temperatures can swing quickly on exposed ridges.

Race details last updated 14 Oct 2026

Ready to run Ikara Ultra?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cut‑off times for the races?

All distances must be finished by Sunday 2 May at 3 am. Specific cut‑offs are: 100 mile – 42 hours, 100 km Friday start – 32.5 hours, 100 km Saturday start – 21 hours, 50 km – 19 hours. These limits ensure safety for runners and crew.

Do I need to meet any qualifying standards?

For the 100 mile you must have completed an 80‑100 km race within the past 18 months. The 100 km, 50 mile and 50 km have no qualifying standards as of December 2025. Submit any qualifying race links via Strava or Garmin to the event contact if required.

What transport and accommodation are provided?

The event runs shuttles from the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre to the start locations (Mt Little, Parachilna Trailhead, Trezona Campground). Most participants stay at Wilpena Pound Resort, which offers shared facilities and a campground. Details on parking and additional transport options are on the official website.

What is the refund policy if I can’t attend?

Registrations are non‑refundable after 1 April, with a 40 % refund available up to that date. Refunds are reduced to 50 % in February and 75 % before February 1. The Race Roster Enhanced Refund Protection Program is recommended for additional coverage. See the FAQ page for full terms.