Runner’s Bucket List: 6 of the Best Long Distance Runs in Australia

1\ Surf Coast Century, Victoria

Distance: 100km

Difficulty: Hard

For Under Armour ambassador and ultra marathon runner Hannah Leonard “my favourite race run outside of NSW would have to be the Surf Coast Century 100km.” The run passes towering sea cliffs, travels across remote beaches and on a twisting single track where no two footsteps are the same.

2\ Rose Bay to Maroubra, New South Wales

Distance: 45km (round-trip)

Difficulty: Moderate

The run from Rose Bay to Maroubra and back (which is about 45km) is one of Under Armour ambassador, Ben Seymour’s regular routes. The iconic run along Sydney’s coastline includes the infamous Bondi to Bronte run but make sure you head off early to miss the crowds and better yet catch the sunrise.

3\ Royal National Park, New South Wales

Distance: 30km

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

A run that Women’s Health Editor, Jacqui Mooney believes that everyone should add to their bucket list is just south of Sydney. “I absolutely love the coastal track from Bundeena south through the Royal National Park to Otford.” Follow the track 30km along the rugged coastline and take in the views! You’ll pass some of New South Wales most famous natural landmarks like Wedding Cake Rock and the Figure 8 Pools.

4\ Brisbane River Loop, Queensland

Distance: 38.2km

Difficulty: Moderate

Men’s Health Digital Content Manager, Lauren Williamson, adds “there’s no better way to end the weekend than with the river loop.” This urban city route is a must-add to any runner’s bucket list, the relatively flat route snakes its way past not one but seven of Brisbane’s cross-river bridges.

5\ Sydney Half Marathon, New South Wales

Distance: 21.2km

Difficulty: Moderate

“One of my favourite runs is the Sydney Half Marathon” adds Men’s Health Fitness Director, Todd Liubinskas, “it’s Australia’s biggest half-marathon and one of the most beautiful runs. You run across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, through the CBD, and ends at the Opera House.”

6\ Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Distance: 80km (round-trip)

Difficulty: Hard

The Cradle Mountain track in Tasmania is a must-do on Men’s Health Editor, Scott Henderson’s bucket list. The 80km loop will set your legs on fire but ignite your motivation with the hilly terrain taking you above the treetops to 1000m altitude.