Course Overview

Set in the Rotorua lakes region, Tarawera runs through ancient redwood forest, past geothermal features, and along lake shorelines. The terrain is predominantly runnable singletrack. The T102 follows the full Tarawera Trail point-to-point from Kawerau to Rotorua, gaining 2,300m over 102km at roughly 22m per km.

Terrain

Runnable singletrack 70% · Fire trail 20% · Road 10%. Underfoot is packed dirt and roots throughout. Moderate technical difficulty. The T21 course is the most accessible of the 3 distances and a strong first ultra option.

Pacing Strategy

The T102 front half is faster than the data suggests. Resist banking time early. The back 40km through the Whakarewarewa Forest is where races are run or lost. Aim for even effort, not even time. Walk every climb from kilometre 60 regardless of how you feel.

Race-Day Tips

Start cold, finish warm. Plan layers accordingly. Crew access is limited on the T102; dropbags are your lifeline. Geothermal heat mid-course surprises first-timers. Poles are recommended for the T102 and T50.

Programs available: Tarawera T21 (12 weeks) · Tarawera T50 (20 weeks) · Tarawera T102 (20 weeks)

Course Overview

Noosa Ultra Trail traverses the Noosa Biosphere Reserve across beach, headland, national park singletrack, and fire trails. The 100K is a point-to-point course from Tewantin to Noosa Heads. The 25K and 30K are ideal first-ultra distances on accessible terrain.

Terrain

Runnable singletrack 55% · Fire trail 30% · Beach and road 15%. The 100K carries 2,094m of gain. The 50K is gentler at 773m total. Heat is the defining challenge at all distances.

Pacing Strategy

Heat management is the defining challenge at Noosa. Start conservatively regardless of conditions. Beach sections feel easy early but drain legs later. Treat the 50K as 2 x 25K efforts. For the 100K, if you reach kilometre 70 feeling strong you executed your training correctly.

Race-Day Tips

March in Queensland means humidity as much as heat. Pre-cool before the start. Carry more fluid than you think between aid stations. Sunscreen is mandatory. Poles are legal and useful for the 100K. The Noosa Beach finish is one of the best in Australian trail running.

Programs available: Noosa 25 (12 weeks) · Noosa 30 (12 weeks) · Noosa 50K (18 weeks) · Noosa 100K (20 weeks)

Course Overview

UTA runs through the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, descending into the Jamison Valley on iconic staircases and climbing out on exposed ridgeline singletrack. The Giant Stairway, Golden Stairs, and Furber Steps are defining features of the longer distances.

Terrain

Technical singletrack 40% · Stairs and steps 25% · Fire trail 25% · Road 10%. The UTA100 carries 4,400m of vertical gain. The stairs are unrunnable; factor this into your time expectations from day 1 of training.

Pacing Strategy

Everyone underestimates the stairs. The Four Passes section of the UTA100 (kilometres 45–70) is where the race is decided. Walk every staircase from the start. Do not run any of them in the first half. For the UTA50, the Kedumba climb at kilometre 36 will feel longer than it is; keep your effort steady.

Race-Day Tips

Poles are mandatory for the UTA100 and strongly recommended for the UTA50. May weather can range from perfect to cold and wet within hours. Always carry a waterproof layer. Katoomba is a festival town during UTA week; stay close to the start for logistics.

Programs available: UTA 11km (14 weeks) · UTA 22km (16 weeks) · UTA 50km (20 weeks) · UTA 100 (20 weeks)

Course Overview

UTMB Kosci runs through Kosciuszko National Park in the Australian Alps. Exposed alpine ridgelines, snowgum forests, and creek crossings are the defining features. The summit loop takes runners past Australia’s highest point above 2,000m.

Terrain

Alpine singletrack 50% · Fire trail 30% · Boardwalk and road 20%. Weather can deteriorate rapidly in March at altitude. The 32K is a strong entry point into alpine running with a manageable but visually spectacular course.

Pacing Strategy

Altitude affects performance more than most runners expect, even at 2,000m. Plan for 10–15% slower paces than sea level. The alpine sections demand conserved energy for descent stability on loose scree. Do not race the early downhills.

Race-Day Tips

Mandatory gear requirements are strictly enforced. Do not compromise on thermals or a waterproof jacket. Creek crossings are cold even in late summer. Sunburn at altitude is fast and severe. If training at sea level, aim for at least 1 alpine day in the 6 weeks before race day.

Programs available: UTMB Kosci 32km (14 weeks) · UTMB Kosci 50km (20 weeks) · UTMB Kosci 100km (20 weeks)

Course Overview

Buffalo Stampede is set on Mount Buffalo in the Victorian High Country. The courses climb through alpine ash forest, across granite tors, and along exposed plateau ridgelines. The 42km Sky Marathon is one of the most beautiful mountain marathons in Australia. The 100km links the full mountain circuit.

Terrain

Technical alpine singletrack 45% · Fire trail 35% · Road and granite slabs 20%. The 100K carries over 5,000m of elevation. Mount Buffalo in April can be cold, wet, and sunny all in one day. Poles are essential for the longer distances.

Pacing Strategy

The opening climb out of Porepunkah sets the tone. Do not chase faster runners up this section. For the 100K, treat kilometres 0–50 as preparation for the real race. The descent off the plateau in the back half is technical and quad-heavy. Conserve your legs through the plateau.

Race-Day Tips

April on Mount Buffalo is shoulder season. Pack for cold, wind, and possible rain. Granite slabs become treacherous when wet. Crew access to the plateau is limited; dropbags are essential for the 100K. The Bright finish line atmosphere is exceptional.

Programs available: Buffalo 20km (16 weeks) · Buffalo 42km (20 weeks) · Buffalo 100km (20 weeks) · Buffalo 100km Relay 4-person (16 weeks)

Course Overview

GPT is a unique event offering a solo 100 Miler, a staged multi-day format, and relay team options. The course traverses remote trail networks with significant self-sufficiency requirements. The staged option splits the 100 Miler distance across multiple days, making this level of distance accessible to a much wider range of runners.

Program Options

GPT 33km · GPT 50km · GPT 100 Miler Solo (20 weeks) · GPT 100 Miler Staged (20 weeks) · GPT Stage Race Team Relay (3-person) · GPT 100 Miler Team Relay (16 weeks). Choose the format that matches your goals and team situation.

Pacing Strategy

For the staged event, treat each day’s opening kilometres as a warm-up of the previous day’s accumulated fatigue. For the solo 100 Miler, nutrition and sleep management are as critical as fitness. Build your race plan around aid station arrivals, not splits.

Race-Day Tips

GPT demands robust self-sufficiency skills. Navigation focus is important even where course marking is thorough. For relay teams, transition planning and communication between runners adds a tactical layer not present in solo events.

Programs available: GPT 33km · GPT 50km · GPT 100 Miler Solo · GPT 100 Miler Staged · GPT Stage Relay · GPT Team Relay

Course Overview

Surf Coast Century runs along the Great Ocean Road corridor from Anglesea to Lorne and back. The 100K course mixes coastal cliffs, Great Otway National Park forest, and river crossings. It is a fast, crowd-friendly course with one of the strongest race communities in Australian trail running.

Terrain

Coastal singletrack 40% · Fire trail 35% · Beach and road 25%. The 100K carries moderate elevation for its distance, making it faster than similarly-distanced mountain courses. Relay teams run the same course split into legs with transition zones at key aid stations.

Pacing Strategy

SCC can be deceptively fast in the first 50K. Resist running at road marathon effort on the flatter coastal sections. The return leg into Anglesea (kilometres 65–100) has more sting than the outbound. For relay teams, plan legs 3 and 4 runners to be your strongest for the finish push.

Race-Day Tips

September on the Surf Coast means variable weather. Wind off the coast is the biggest factor. Carry a wind layer even on clear days. Creek crossings can be cold and deep depending on recent rainfall. The Lorne turnaround is a festival within a race. Enjoy it briefly and keep moving.

Programs available: SCC 50km Solo · SCC 100km Solo · SCC 100km Relay Team of 2 · SCC 100km Relay Team of 4

Course Overview

Two Bays runs point-to-point between Cape Schanck and Dromana along the Two Bays Walking Track on the Mornington Peninsula. The course climbs over Arthur’s Seat and winds through coastal scrub and farmland. January means summer heat is the primary challenge.

Terrain

Runnable singletrack 60% · Fire trail 25% · Road and beach 15%. The 56K carries 1,350m gain. The 28K carries 705m. Trails are well-maintained with consistent underfoot quality but exposed to heat from mid-morning onwards.

Pacing Strategy

Pre-race heat management is as important as race-day pacing in January. The return leg of the 56K adds accumulated fatigue that makes Arthur’s Seat climb feel much longer than it did on the outbound. Treat the turnaround as the halfway mark mentally, not the finish.

Race-Day Tips

Carry at least 1.5L between aid stations. Cooling towels and ice at aid stations are lifesavers on hot days. If temperatures exceed 32 degrees a heat plan may be activated. Know the withdrawal protocols. Poles are allowed and useful for the Arthur’s Seat sections.

Programs available: Two Bays 28km (12 weeks) · Two Bays 56km (14 weeks)

Course Overview

The Standley Monster is one of Australia’s most remote and visually spectacular trail events. Set in the West MacDonnell Ranges outside Alice Springs, the course traverses ancient quartzite ridgelines, dry creek beds, and sacred landscape. The terrain is technical, exposed, and unlike anything on the east coast.

Terrain

Technical quartzite trail 50% · Dry creek and sand 30% · Fire trail 20%. The 65km carries 1,630m gain. May weather is ideal with cool mornings and warm afternoons, the most forgiving window for this environment.

Pacing Strategy

The quartzite ridge sections require full concentration and slow movement regardless of fitness level. Budget 30% more time than you would for a similarly-distanced course with clear paths. Sand running in creek beds is energy-intensive. Shorten your stride and keep effort steady.

Race-Day Tips

This race requires respect for the environment and Country. Carry mandatory gear without compromise. Water sources are limited. The remoteness means self-sufficiency is non-negotiable. Cultural awareness of the West MacDonnell Ranges adds real meaning to the experience.

Program available: Standley Monster 65km (20 weeks)

About Road Marathon Programs

Her Trails road marathon programs are built on a trail-running base: more time on feet, more aerobic development, less pace chasing. Each race-specific program accounts for course profile, seasonal conditions, and target time ranges. All are 16-week programs built from a comfortable half marathon fitness base.

Race Differences

Gold Coast is the fastest course with minimal elevation, ideal for PB attempts. Sydney features rolling hills and iconic views but is harder for time targets. Melbourne is a large festival with excellent crowd support and a mostly flat course. Queenstown adds altitude and a mountain backdrop.

Pacing Strategy

Her Trails road programs teach effort-based pacing, not GPS pace targets. The 30km mark is where road marathons are decided. Running the first 30km correctly is the entire game. Negative splits or even splits are the goal; positive splits mean you went too hard too soon.

Program Features

Each road program includes a trail long run component, strength integration sessions, race-simulation runs, and a detailed taper protocol. Programs are built for first marathons through to sub-4 hour targets. A generic Road Marathon program is also available if your event is not specifically listed.

Programs available: Gold Coast Marathon · Sydney Road Marathon · Melbourne Marathon · Queenstown Marathon · Generic Road Marathon (16 weeks)

Course Overview

Bondi to Manly follows Sydney’s iconic coastal walking track from Bondi Beach to Manly Wharf. The 80km route links the city’s most spectacular headlands, beaches, and harbour bays. Largely runnable with consistent short climbs, the course is visually stunning but deceptively demanding through the back half.

Terrain

Coastal track and fire trail 60% · Paved path 25% · Beach and sand 15%. Elevation is modest at roughly 2,200m total gain, distributed across many short punchy climbs rather than sustained ascents.

Pacing Strategy

The first 40km feel easy. This is the trap. North Sydney in the back half features more sustained climbs and less runnable surface. Treat the race in thirds: settle in (0–25km), maintain effort (25–55km), race home (55–80km). Kilometres 60–70 through North Head and Manly are where times are made or lost.

Race-Day Tips

June weather in Sydney is cool and ideal for running. Aid stations are well spaced but carry enough between checkpoints. The relay option allows a team to cover the distance in legs. Logistics from Manly back to Bondi at the finish take planning. Shoes with light grip handle the coastal track well.

Programs available: Bondi to Manly 80km Solo (16 weeks) · Bondi to Manly Relay (12 weeks)

Course Overview

Set in the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne, the Roller Coaster Run delivers relentless short climbs and descents through mountain ash forest. The 12.4km and 23km courses share the same out-and-back profile; the 46km is a double loop. All distances finish in Ferntree Gully.

Terrain

Singletrack 65% · Fire trail 25% · Steps and boardwalk 10%. Total gain for the 23km is approximately 800m, which feels much greater than the numbers suggest due to the frequency of climbs. No extended flat sections to recover.

Pacing Strategy

The first kilometre is uphill and immediately sets a high heart rate. Resist the start-line surge. For the 46km, pace the first loop as if you will need every second loop to be identical. Power hiking on all climbs from the gun is not a sign of weakness on this course. It is the correct strategy.

Race-Day Tips

Grip is critical. Shoes with aggressive lugs are strongly recommended. November in the Dandenongs can be warm and humid or wet and cold within the same day. The finish in Ferntree Gully is festive and the atmosphere builds as finishers come in across all distances throughout the day.

Programs available: Roller Coaster 12.4km (14 weeks) · Roller Coaster 23km (14 weeks) · Roller Coaster 46km (18 weeks)

Course Overview

The Hounslow Classic is a point-to-point trail race through the Southern Highlands of NSW. Both the 17km and 42km courses wind through farmland, native bush, and creek corridors. The marathon distance is a legitimate trail marathon with enough elevation and technical section to distinguish it clearly from road events.

Terrain

Singletrack 45% · Farmland track 35% · Creek crossings and 4WD track 20%. The terrain is approachable for runners stepping up from road. Creek crossings are common and feet will get wet; plan footwear accordingly.

Pacing Strategy

For the 42km, the second half opens onto more exposed farmland track where fatigue is amplified by terrain changes. Run the first 20km conservatively. The final 10km has a cumulative toll that surprises runners who came from road marathons. Hiking any climb over 10% is always the right call.

Race-Day Tips

October in the Southern Highlands can be warm. Carry more fluid than you think you need. The event has a welcoming community feel with strong local volunteer support. The 17km is an excellent first trail race or a strong tune-up event before a longer race later in the season.

Programs available: Hounslow 17km (12 weeks) · Hounslow Classic Marathon 42km (16 weeks)

Course Overview

The Rotorua Trail Festival runs through the Whakarewarewa Forest on the southern edge of Rotorua. The 10K Geothermal Traverse and the 21K Pohutu Geyser Trail both weave through redwood groves, volcanic terrain, and the living geothermal landscape of Te Puia.

Terrain

Packed pumice trail 55% · Redwood forest singletrack 30% · Geothermal boardwalk and track 15%. The pumice surface is fast, forgiving underfoot, and outstanding for first-time trail runners. The 21K carries roughly 450m gain over the full course.

Pacing Strategy

The Rotorua Trail Festival is an accessible event that rewards consistent effort over aggression. The 21K can be run at close to road half marathon effort for most runners. Both courses suit runners building trail confidence. Aim for a controlled first half and a strong finish through the geothermal section.

Race-Day Tips

June in Rotorua is cool and often misty. Light layers are useful in the morning but rarely needed by race time. The geothermal sulphur smell is striking on first encounter but quickly becomes part of the experience. The festival atmosphere in Rotorua city is excellent.

Programs available: Rotorua Trail Festival 10K (12 weeks) · Rotorua Trail Festival 21K (12 weeks)

Course Overview

The Six Foot Track is one of Australia’s oldest and most beloved trail races, run along the historic droving route from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves. The 45km point-to-point course descends from the plateau, crosses the Cox’s River, climbs back up through the Megalong Valley, and finishes at the Jenolan Caves complex.

Terrain

Singletrack and bush trail 70% · Fire road 20% · Sealed road 10%. The descent off the escarpment in the first 10km is steep and technical. The Cox’s River crossing (around 15km) can be thigh-deep depending on recent rain. Total elevation gain is approximately 1,400m with a significant net loss.

Pacing Strategy

The first 10km descend sharply from Katoomba. Quad control here determines your race. Runners who bomb the descent arrive at the river crossing with thrashed legs. Hike what you need to on the descent, run the valley flat sections, and reserve everything for the final climb to Jenolan.

Race-Day Tips

March in the Blue Mountains is autumn and conditions are typically ideal. The Cox’s River crossing is cold early in the morning. Gaiters are strongly recommended for the second half. Entry is by ballot and fills quickly. The finish atmosphere at Jenolan Caves is exceptional.

Her Trails Six Foot Track program: 14–16 weeks

Course Overview

Blackall 100 runs through the Glass House Mountains hinterland and the ridges above Maleny on the Sunshine Coast. All distances share the same loop-based course structure through subtropical rainforest, open ridge, and the distinctive volcanic landscape of southeast Queensland.

Terrain

Singletrack through subtropical rainforest 50% · Open ridge and fire trail 30% · Sealed road connectors 20%. The trails are rooty and technical in sections. Elevation for the 50km sits around 2,200m. August is the driest month in SE QLD but the forest sections hold moisture year-round.

Pacing Strategy

The loop format means every distance covers the same terrain in multiples. Use the first loop to learn the course. For the 100km, the third and fourth loops (kilometres 60–100) reveal the race. Even pacing across loops is the goal.

Race-Day Tips

August in the Sunshine Coast hinterland is typically dry and cool in the morning, warming through the day. Carry sufficient fluid as some sections between aid have limited shade. The Glass House Mountains at sunrise from the ridge section is one of the great views in Australian trail running.

Her Trails Blackall programs: 25km (12 weeks) · 50km (20 weeks) · 100km (20 weeks)

Course Overview

Run Larapinta is a 4-day, self-supported stage race through the West MacDonnell Ranges, following sections of the iconic Larapinta Trail west of Alice Springs. Over approximately 100km runners traverse ancient quartzite ridges, dry river crossings, and deep gorges. Stages vary in length and challenge, with rest camps providing meals and support each night.

Terrain

Quartzite ridge and singletrack 50% · Rocky creek and gorge 30% · Sand and spinifex 20%. The terrain is technical and ankle-demanding. Total elevation across the 4 days is significant; the cumulative toll of the quartzite is unlike any other Australian race environment.

Pacing Strategy

Stage races require a different mindset: recovery between stages matters as much as performance during them. Stage 1 sets the tone for your body and your head. Start conservatively across all stages and build only once you understand how you are recovering each night. The final stage is often the most beautiful and deserves energy in reserve.

Race-Day Tips

August in the NT is dry, clear, and cold at night, reaching warm to hot during the day. Sun protection is non-negotiable: hat, arm sleeves, and SPF 50 at minimum. Carry more foot care supplies than you think you need. The Larapinta landscape is unlike anywhere else in Australia.

Her Trails Run Larapinta Stage Race program: 20 weeks

Course Overview

The Cradle Mountain Run covers 82km of the Overland Track between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair in Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness. The point-to-point course traverses alpine moorland, buttongrass plains, dolerite boulder fields, and the iconic Ducane Range. One of the most remote and spectacular ultra courses in Australia.

Terrain

Alpine moorland and boardwalk 40% · Rocky singletrack and boulder field 35% · Forest and muddy trail 25%. The dolerite boulder fields around Pelion Gap and the Ducane Range are technically demanding and cannot be run. Total elevation gain is approximately 3,400m across the 82km.

Pacing Strategy

Do not chase time on this course. The terrain enforces its own pace ceiling. Train on perceived effort and time on feet. The final 20km from Narcissus Hut to Lake St Clair is flatter but arrives after enormous cumulative fatigue. Keep moving consistently rather than running hard between difficulties.

Race-Day Tips

February is summer in Tasmania but the alpine environment is unpredictable at any time of year. Full waterproof layer, thermal mid-layer, and gloves are mandatory regardless of conditions at the start. Embrace the wilderness: this is not a race you run for a time. It is an experience to complete and savour.

Her Trails Cradle Mountain Run program: 20 weeks

Course Overview

Oscars Hut 2 Hut links the historic alpine huts of the Victorian High Country in a 50km point-to-point adventure run. The course passes through the Bogong High Plains and the Mount Hotham alpine resort area, connecting the working cattlemen’s huts that define this landscape. A genuine alpine ultra with remote sections and significant weather exposure.

Terrain

Alpine plateau and snow grass 45% · High Country singletrack 35% · Fire road and ski run 20%. Wind and cold are constant factors. Snow can be present at any time of year. Total elevation gain is approximately 2,400m across the 50km, with long sustained climbs onto the plateau sections.

Pacing Strategy

The High Country rewards hikers and punishes racers who do not respect altitude. Train for time on feet at sustained effort rather than fast intervals. The back half of the course drops significantly, but tired legs on snow grass descents are high ankle-roll risk. Stay controlled to the finish.

Race-Day Tips

Mandatory gear requirements are strict: emergency bivvy, warm layer, waterproof shell, and navigation capability are standard. The hut check-ins are a unique feature of the course and worth savouring. This is one of Australia’s most scenic ultra environments and the experience rewards runners who pace accordingly.

Her Trails Oscars Hut 2 Hut 50km program: 20 weeks

Course Overview

The Guzzler is a 50km trail ultra based in Bright in the Victorian Alpine region. The course climbs through the Ovens Valley and into the Mount Buffalo foothills, delivering demanding elevation and spectacular High Country scenery. A staple of the Victorian trail calendar and a strong stepping stone toward Buffalo Stampede.

Terrain

Fire trail and singletrack through alpine forest 65% · Open ridge and High Country track 25% · Road 10%. Elevation gain is significant for the distance, with multiple extended climbs. Autumn colours in Bright make the Guzzler one of the most picturesque trail events in Victoria.

Pacing Strategy

The Guzzler climbs early and the temptation to push on fresh legs is real. Resist it. The descent from the high point is long and quad-heavy. Runners who overcook the early climbs arrive at the back half with heavy legs and a technical descent still to manage. Walk every climb above 10% and preserve the quads for the return.

Race-Day Tips

Bright in autumn is one of Australia’s most scenic settings. Morning temperatures can be cold at the start; plan for layers you can shed. The event is popular and the atmosphere in town on race weekend is excellent.

Her Trails Guzzler 50km program: 20 weeks

Course Overview

The Great Southern Endurance Run takes runners through the coastal wilderness of the Albany region in Western Australia. The 56km course traverses granite headlands, coastal heath, and the dramatic cliff lines of Torndirrup National Park. One of the most visually spectacular ultra courses in Australia, with uninterrupted Southern Ocean views for much of the route.

Terrain

Coastal singletrack and fire trail 50% · Granite rock and exposed ridge 30% · Beach and sand 20%. The granite sections demand genuine technical skill and cannot be rushed. Total elevation gain sits around 2,100m for the 56km.

Pacing Strategy

The GSER is not a fast course and should not be approached as one. The granite and technical terrain enforce a natural pace ceiling. Runners who chase time early pay heavily in the back 20km. Plan for a finish time 20–30% slower than a flat 56km trail course. Effort over pace is the only useful metric for the first 35km.

Race-Day Tips

Wind off the Southern Ocean is constant and cold regardless of the season. A windproof layer is mandatory, not optional. Exposed granite sections become dangerous when wet; if conditions are poor, reduce pace significantly on all rock sections. Albany is a long way from Perth; build travel days into your race-weekend plan.

Programs available: Great Southern Endurance Run 56km (20 weeks)

Ask HER Coach

Your Complete Program Library

No programs match those filters

Ask HER Coach

Event Deep Dives