Pound the Pavement or Hit the Trails: Must-Try Running Adventures in Adelaide and Darwin

Pound the Pavement or Hit the Trails: Must-Try Running Adventures in Adelaide and Darwin

Whether you crave scenic coastal jogs, challenging hill climbs, or urban exploration on foot, you'll find the perfect track to suit your needs. For now, we are focusing on two metro destinations: Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, and Darwin, the heart of the Northern Territory; as many of us head back to the office and a good routine. 

Adelaide: Running Through Cityscapes and Nature

Adelaide offers a delightful blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Here are some of the top running tracks to explore:

  • Torrens Riverbank Track (City Loop): This iconic 6.2 kilometre paved loop (Link to AllTrails map) follows the scenic Torrens River, showcasing stunning cityscapes and parkland views. Perfect for a morning jog or an evening run, this easily accessible track caters to all fitness levels.
  • Glenelg Beach: Embrace the invigorating coastal breeze with a run along Glenelg Beach (5 kilometers). This golden stretch of sand offers a refreshing and scenic route, especially on a warm day (Link to Komoot map). Be mindful of beachgoers and cyclists during peak times.
  • Adelaide City ‘Uni loop’: The Uni Loop located between Mackinnon Parade and War Memorial Drive, in the Adelaide Parklands. This is an unsealed circuit, that is tree lined and contains distance markers every 200 metres to keep you on track.(Link to map and other circuits in the city) 

For the Adventurous Runner:

  • Mount Lofty Summit Hike & Firle Loop: This challenging 7-kilometre trail takes you to the summit of Mount Lofty, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Adelaide (Link to Komoot map). The Firle Loop provides a scenic descent through native bushland, making it a rewarding and invigorating run.
  • Onkaparinga River Recreation Park: Escape the city and explore the natural beauty of the Onkaparinga River Recreation Park. This park offers a variety of trails, including a scenic 5-kilometre loop along the Onkaparinga River (Link to AllTrails map). Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and native flora as you run.

Darwin: Running in a Tropical Paradise

Darwin, the vibrant capital of the Northern Territory, presents a unique running experience amidst a tropical backdrop. Here are some top tracks to explore:

  • Mindil Beach Loop: Enjoy a picturesque 4.2-kilometre run along the iconic Mindil Beach (Link to AllTrails map). Witness stunning sunrises or sunsets as you jog along the soft sand, listening to the calming sounds of the waves. Be mindful of tides and beachgoers during peak times.
  • Litchfield National Park – Wangi Falls Track: Embark on a 3.8-kilometre adventure through the stunning Litchfield National Park (Link to AllTrails map). This moderately challenging trail takes you past cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and towering termite mounds. This is a great option for runners seeking a scenic and challenging route.

Exploring Darwin's City and Harbor:

  • East Point Reserve Loop: Explore the scenic East Point Reserve with a 4.4-kilometre paved loop (Link to AllTrails map). This track offers stunning views along the coastline. 
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