Welcome to the Run Larapinta Stage Race


Welcome to Run Larapinta – an extraordinary trail running experience through the very heart of Australia.

This is a race through a landscape that transcends time, where the tectonic lines of the MacDonnell Ranges stand solid and strong as the Larapinta Trail weaves its route like a magic serpent in the dust. Itโ€™s a landscape of boundless beauty that leaves you in awe at every step.

But more impressive than the country we get to experience, itโ€™s the people that make this race really special. Coming from all corners of the nation, of all speeds and specialties – everyone becomes equal out here as we share an experience youโ€™ll never forget. Ever.

โ€œThat was an amazing and unbelievable experience for me; Iโ€™ve never been here before and I just couldnโ€™t believe how nice (and tough!) it is! – Corey Milner (Overall Malbunka Winner 2023)

WHEN:

Friday 15 to Monday 18 August 2025

WHERE:

Larapinta Trail in the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.

ENTRIES:

Entries for the 2025 are now open.
Further communication will be on this website and our Facebook page as the date nears. 2025 runners are encouraged to be ready to enter as soon as they open so as not to miss out (entries sold out in 4hrs for the 2024 event!).

FIELD LIMIT:

Run Larapinta has a field limit of 200 4-Stage Runners to preserve the experience for all.

THE COURSE:

The Malbunka (long course)*

The Namatjira (short course)

20km – 45km stages

14km – 30km stages

    • Stage 1: 19.5km around Alice Springs from the Old Telegraph Station to the Mercure
    • Stage 2: 41km from Simpsons Gap to Standley Chasm
    • Stage 3: 33km Birthday Waterhole turn-off, to Standley Chasmย 
    • Stage 4: 34km Ochre Pits to Ellery Creek Waterholeย 
  • Stage 1: 13.5km around Alice Springs from the Old Telegraph Station to the Mercure
  • Stage 2: 20km Standley Chasm > High Route loop
  • Stage 3:22km Birthday Waterhole to Standley Chasmย 
  • Stage 4: 27km Counts Point turn-off, to Ellery Creek Waterholeย 
VIEW MALBUNKA DETAILS VIEW NAMATJIRA DETAILS

*NOTE, the Malbunka course has selected minimum entry requirements and is aimed at trail runners. Walking the entire course each day will NOT meet the cut-offs.

Join us for an unforgettable trail running experience in Australia’s spectacular Red Centre.

VIDEO INSPIRATION

“Run Larapinta was an amazing way to see a beautiful part of Outback Australia. The trail is tough, but the beauty of the area, its vastness and majesty made every step worthwhile. I feel privileged to have seen a special part of our country and met some lovely people along the way.” Karen, 2019 participant.

Across mountain ridgelines, through dry sandy river beds and over endlessssss rocks in the heat of the sun โ€“ we overcame all these challenges on our way to the finish line! But what was an even greater standout for me was sharing the experience with everyone else. I’ve formed life long friendships for years to come!
– Mary, 2022 event participant.

2024 EVENT WEEK REVIEW

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