Warburton Trail Run Festival

Event Dates:

Saturday 8th March – Monday 10th March 2025
Location: Warburton, Victoria

The Ultimate Trail Running Festival

Welcome to the Warburton Trail Fest, where the raw beauty of the Yarra Ranges meets adrenaline-pumping trail running. This festival is more than a race—it’s a celebration of community, endurance, and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra-runner or a casual enthusiast, there’s something here for you.

Take on the Multiday Madness, featuring over 100km of trails, mountains, and river runs across three epic days. Or, choose from individual events to suit your ability and schedule. With vibrant event vibes, quirky challenges, and stunning backdrops, this is a must-attend festival for any trail runner.

Event Overview

Multiday Madness: Conquer 100km+ across multiple events:

• 50km Lumberjack Marathon (Saturday)
• 27km Redwoods Rush (Saturday)
• 22km Donna Double (Sunday)
• 14km Sawmill Grove Run (Sunday)
• 8km Little Joe’s Night Terror (Sunday Night)
• 4.5km Rapid River Runs (Saturday & Sunday)
• 3km Lilo Dash ‘n Derby (Monday)
• Three Thong Thang Dash for Cash (Sunday, mandatory for Multiday entrants)

Event Highlights

Saturday 8th March

50km Lumberjack Marathon

• Ascent: ~1200m
• Aid Stations: 10km, 20km, 31.5km, 43km
• Cut-Off: 32km @ 1:30 pm, Finish @ 4:00 pm
• Course Description: Starting in Powelltown, this historic course follows the “Run Into History” trail, a path once used by lumberjacks. Enjoy a mix of lush fern forests, steep ascents like the notorious “High Lead” climb, and a scenic out-and-back to the iconic Ada Tree. The final stretch takes you through Starlings Gap and along the Yarra River to Warburton’s Football Oval finish line. Expect both lung-busting climbs and quad-busting descents.
• Records:
  • Men’s: 3:45:14 (Dion Finocchiaro)
  • Women’s: 4:35:59 (Amy Lamprecht)

27km Redwoods Rush

• Ascent: ~450m
• Aid Stations: 5km, 11km, 20km
• Cut-Off: 11am @ halfway
• Course Description: This fast, flat course along the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail is perfect for runners seeking a stunning yet manageable challenge. Pass through towering Mountain Ash forests and lush fern walls on your way to the breathtaking Redwoods Forest. This out-and-back trail promises smooth, runnable paths with minimal elevation gain—ideal for speedsters and scenery lovers alike.
• Records:
  • Men’s: 1:44:31 (John Dutton)
  • Women’s: 2:08:44 (Erchana Murray-Bartlett)

Sunday 9th March

22km Donna Double

• Ascent: ~1333m
• Aid Stations: 7km, 11km, 15km
• Cut-Off: 2.5hrs @ halfway
• Course Description: Prepare for a lung-burning ascent as you climb 1000m over just 8km to the summit of Mt Donna Buang (1250m). The steep, single-track climb cuts through tall eucalypt forests and fern gullies before rewarding you with panoramic summit views. The quad-busting descent will test your endurance as you make your way back down to the Warburton Oval. Part of the Golden Trail National Series, this race is for those who love steep challenges and adrenaline-fueled descents.
• Records:
  • Men’s: 1:55:55 (Matt Schepisi)
  • Women’s: 2:08:57 (Simone Brick)

14km Sawmill Grove Run

• Ascent: ~350m
• Aid Stations: 7km
• Cut-Off: None
• Course Description: This fun, flowy out-and-back course is perfect for runners who want to avoid the extreme climbs. Beginning at Warburton Oval, the trail winds along the scenic Yarra River before joining the flat O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail. Marvel at views over the valley before turning around near the sawmill ruins of Millgrove. It’s a picturesque route that balances elevation with runnable sections.
• Records:
  • Men’s: 55:46 (Sam Quirk)
  • Women’s: 1:03:11 (Simone Brick)

8km Little Joe’s Night Terror

• Ascent: ~500m
• Cut-Off: None
• Course Description: A short, sharp night run that starts and finishes at the Alpine Hotel in Warburton. The route includes a grueling climb to the summit of Little Joe, offering stunning night views, followed by a technical descent. Finish with live music, drinks, and food at the Alpine Hotel. This event is pure trail running joy under the stars.
• Records:
  • Men’s: 43:20 (Corey Milner)
  • Women’s: 52:08 (Tameka Day)

Three Thong Thang Dash for Cash

• Distance: ~200m
• Prize: $200 for first male & female.
• Details: Run wearing two thongs on your feet and a thong (G-string) around your waist. This hilarious dash is a festival favorite, blending speed, fun, and a little bit of daring.

Rapid River Runs (4.5km)

• Ascent: ~80m
• Cut-Off: None
• Course Description: A beautiful loop along the Yarra River with gentle undulations, perfect for families and casual runners. Held on both Saturday and Sunday mornings, this course is all about fun and inclusivity.

Monday 10th March

3km Lilo Dash ‘n Derby

• Course: 1.5km run followed by 1.5km river float.
• Mandatory Items: BYO lilo, helmet, and shoes.
• Course Description: Cool off with this quirky event that combines a riverside trail run with a river float on your lilo. The race ends back at the Warburton Oval. Fancy dress is highly encouraged for a chance to win spot prizes.
• Records: 22:44 (Tom Dade)

Why Join Warburton Trail Fest?

• Scenic Variety: From riverside trails to mountain summits, experience the best of the Yarra Ranges.
• Unique Events: From the quirky Lilo Derby to the Three Thong Thang, this isn’t your typical trail festival.
• Community Atmosphere: Enjoy live music, food trucks, and post-race celebrations.
• Family-Friendly: Short distances and non-competitive events welcome everyone to join in.

Registration

Multiday Madness Package: Includes entry to all events.
Single Event Passes: Available for each race.

Secure Your Spot Today

Whether you’re chasing a new challenge or soaking up the festival vibes, the Warburton Trail Fest promises an unforgettable trail running experience. Register now and make 2025 your year of adventure!