Typical Conditions
Cool winter conditions
Event Overview
The Elephant Trail Race 2026 will take place in Cairncross State Forest, Port Macquarie, NSW. This event features a variety of race distances, catering to a wide range of participants. The course is designed to challenge athletes while showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
What the Course Demands
Participants can expect a course that requires physical endurance and mental resilience. The varied terrain will test runners’ abilities to navigate through different sections, making preparation essential for a successful experience in this event.
Who This Event Suits Best
The Elephant Trail Race is suitable for runners of various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. It is ideal for those seeking to challenge themselves in a natural setting and who are comfortable with the demands of a trail race.
Preparing for This Event
If you are considering this event and want some structure around your preparation, a targeted training plan can help you arrive feeling confident rather than underprepared. The aim is not to train harder, but to train in a way that suits the distance, terrain, and likely conditions of the course.
Choosing a plan is optional, but having structure can remove uncertainty and make training easier to repeat week to week. The best option is the one that fits your current fitness, available time, and experience level.
Distances & Categories
| Category | Format / Distances | Prep Time | Level |
| 217km |
217km |
36 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 160km |
160km |
32 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 100km solo |
100km |
28 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 100km (3 Day Stage) |
100km |
24 Weeks |
Intermediate |
| 75km (2 Day Stage) |
75km |
20 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 50km |
50km |
22 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 25km |
25km |
16 Weeks |
Intermediate |
| 13km |
13km |
12 Weeks |
Beginner |
| 5km |
5km |
8 Weeks |
Beginner |
| ETR Kids |
2.5km |
6 Weeks |
Beginner |
Event Map
Please note: the map location may be approximate. Refer to the event website for start lines and course maps.
Training Tips for Running