Ultra-Trail Australia

Next Race

May 16, 2026

days to go

Ultra-Trail Australia is Oceania's premier ultramarathon and a UTMB World Series event, traversing the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains west of Sydney. Runners descend into deep sandstone gorges, cross ancient eucalyptus forests, and climb rugged staircases through some of Australia's most spectacular wilderness. The course's relentless vertical gain and technical terrain make it one of the most demanding 100km races in the Southern Hemisphere.

UTMB World Series EventITRA 5 Endurance Points

Est.

2008

Distance

100km / 62mi

Course

Loop

Surface

Technical Trail

Elev. Gain

4400m

Elev. Loss

4400m

Field Size

~2,500

When

May

Time Limit

28h

THE COURSE

Gain

+4400m

Loss

-4400m

MI 0

KM 0

Scenic World Start

The race begins at Scenic World in Katoomba overlooking the Jamison Valley. Runners descend the Giant Stairway — over 900 steep metal steps carved into the cliff face — dropping 300 meters into the valley floor in the first kilometers.

ELEV: 1017ft

MI 8

KM 13

Federal Pass & Leura Forest

Runners traverse the Federal Pass beneath towering sandstone cliffs, passing Katoomba Falls and weaving through temperate rainforest. The narrow trail hugs the valley floor with the Three Sisters looming above.

ELEV: 750ft

MI 22

KM 35

Six Foot Track

The historic Six Foot Track section takes runners deep into the Blue Mountains wilderness. Originally a horse trail to Jenolan Caves, this remote stretch follows creek crossings and dense eucalyptus forest with minimal aid access.

ELEV: 600ft

MI 37

KM 60

Megalong Valley

The expansive Megalong Valley provides a brief respite on fire trails before runners face the brutal climb out. The wide-open pastoral landscape contrasts sharply with the tight canyon trails, and the long exposed stretches can be punishing in warm conditions.

ELEV: 350ft

MI 56

KM 90

Narrow Neck Plateau & Finish

The final section traverses the exposed Narrow Neck Peninsula — a dramatic ridgeline with sheer drops on both sides — before the grueling climb back up to Katoomba. Runners summit the final staircase and return to Scenic World to a roaring finish crowd.

ELEV: 900ft