Explore one of the world’s most iconic desert trails. Join a small group of all abilities for a relaxed, immersive running adventure through red rock ridges and ancient landscapes. Experienced guides, expert crew, all meals, all accommodation, and bag transfers.
This is truly an adventure of a lifetime.
- Early Bird Deposits -
Book now with 20% Deposit
Itinerary
This is Run Weekends longest and most epic adventure. Join a small group of up to 16 runners to complete the famous Larapinta Trail in the Australian Outback. Bring a tent and we'll do the rest. We'll transport your gear for you, cook together in camp each night, and spend 11 stunning day running a grand total of 238km in some of the most spectacular terrain in the world. We really are in the middle of nowhere.
Our average daily distance is around 20km, our longest day is 29km. The pace will be slow and steady. Please don't be afraid of the distance or your ability. The team will take good care of you. Run Weekends is for everyone. We ask that you have some experience running back to back days, but remember the pace will be slow and steady. We'll stop for meals, to take photos, and constantly fill our water bottles/bags. The group will be led by an experienced team.
The Larapinta Trail is an extended track in the Northern Territory of Australia. Its total length covers 223 kilometres (139 miles) from east to west, with the eastern end at Alice Springs and the western end at Mount Sonder, which we'll submit on the final day. This is one of the territory's highest mountains. It follows the West MacDonnell Ranges, sometimes along the ridge line, other times on the plains below, of the West MacDonnell National Park. This really is the ultimate outback experience.
Day 1
Arrival & Welcome Dinner
Arrive from 17:00 into the town of Alice Springs. Yes we are right in the middle of Australia. A town nestled in the heart of the Aussie Outback. Meet Nick, Erchana and the team at the YHA Alice Spings Hostel. No doubt you will have travelled a while to reach us, so drop your bags, and relax with a few drinks and later dinner just around the corner. The first day is all about gathering together and getting ready for the 11 nights on the trail. Your team will host an in-depth adventure briefing followed by a mandatory kit inspection. Once everyone is happy, we'll have some drinks, lay out our gear for the next morning, and head to bed with full bellies.
Day 2
Telegraph Station to Simpsons Gap - 24km
Begin the Larapinta Trail at the historic Telegraph Station, an important outpost in Australian history. Run through the rugged terrain to reach Simpsons Gap, a stunning natural gorge surrounded by red cliffs. Grab the gear and as a group get stuck into building our camp for the night. Settle, change, wash, and help prep food together for our evening meal.
Day 3
Simpsons Gap to Jay Creek - 25km
Wakey wakey, rise and shine. After a leisurely breakfast and time to pack up camp and load the vehicles, you'll continue your journey through the West MacDonnell Ranges. The pace is always casual so there's no pressure. Just remember to top up the sun cream. It will be tropical. Having jogged through ranges we'll reach our rest stop for the night. Jay Creek camp is immersed in the heart of the outback. From here onwards you'll feel the remote nature of the trip.
Day 4
Jay Creek to Standley Chasm - 13km
Each day will be relatively similar in terms of duties like packing camp preparing breakfast, and taking care of sore feet. The trail however will weave us through a magical journey with the landscape treating us to new wonders each day. Today we follow the trail to Standley Chasm, a striking geological formation with towering red walls. We'll take time to appreciate the serene beauty and learn about the cultural significance of this area before dinner and camp fires to close out the day.
Day 5
Standley Chasm to Birthday Waterhole - 17km
A spot of yoga? Part of the beauty of the outback is the peace and stillness of early morning. If you're awake, join the team for some gentle stretches. Today you'll run through ever diverse landscapes, including rich woodlands and open valleys eventually arriving at Birthday Waterhole, a peaceful spot surrounded by ancient red gums. We recommend brining a journal to jot down your experience as you go. We'll set aside some time to do this each evening.
Day 6
Birthday Waterhole to Hugh Gorge - 17km
We run deeper and deeper into the heart of the outback, encountering unique flora and fauna, and with plenty of casual stops to fill water, tuck into our pre prepared lunchboxes, and if you need, re apply sun scream or change socks. You'll be sweaty. Don't forget the jeeps will be with us all the way, so you'll have access to change clothes and grab snacks from your personal supplies during the day. We'll aim to have pit stops every hour or so. Reach Hugh Gorge, a rugged oasis hidden within the rocky landscape by sundown having had a lazy morning. A simply dinner tonight and off to bed before tomorrow.
Day 7
Hugh Gorge to Ellery Creek North - 29km
We'll continue to traverse through the scenic terrain, passing by striking rock formations and expansive views to arrive at Ellery Creek Big Hole, a stunning waterhole surrounded by even more towering cliffs. We've set aside some time to head off to the surrounding formations to create your new profile photos. Our photographers and videographers will be on hand.
Day 8
Ellery Creek Big Hole to Serpentine Chalet Dam - 29km
By now we will be in full swing. Each member of the group can take turns prepping breakfast with the team, and we'll probably have worked out who always wakes up last. The community element of this trip will stand out. So get stuck in. Today we have views of high quartzite ridge lines typical of the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil, which is the highest point in the Northern Territory. We'll also have time to explore Ormiston Gorge, a geological wonder, and learn about its cultural importance.
Day 9
Serpentine Chalet to Orminston Gorge - 29km
Goodbye Orminston Gorge, hello Serpentine. Today we run through Redbank Gorge, famous for it's deep watering hole. As we run you'll notice the striking contrast of colours in the landscape. Setting up camp tonight, we have set aside some time to stargaze, assuming the weather is friendly. We'll also explain some more about the creepy crawlies in the area.
Day 10
Ormiston Gorge to Finke River - 12km
Breakfast, tents, and gear packing complete, your day will begin by leaving Ormiston Gorge taking in the last views this section of the trail. The occasional gentle ascents and descents today we'll approach the Finke River, take some time to appreciate the ancient beauty and cultural significance of this historic waterway. We camp in the picturesque campsite along the riverbank, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of flowing water. By now you'll all need some time to yourself. So tonight, is your night. Grab a beer, chill with new found friends. We are only 48 hours from completing this mammoth trail.
Day 11
Finke River to Redback Gorge - 27km
Today's journey takes you from the ancient shores of the Finke River to the iconic Redbank Gorge. Begin by bidding farewell to the serene campsite along the riverbank and follow the trail deeper into the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges. The terrain may present some challenges, today but the surrounding landscape offers a good reward. As you approach Redbank Gorge, the striking contrast of colours becomes increasingly apparent. Upon arrival, take time to explore the area, perhaps enjoying a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Settle into the campsite and go through our now well oiled system of setting up camp for dinner. We cook together for one final night in the Outback.
Day 12
Redbank Gorge to Mount Sonder - 16km
Today we complete the final leg of the Larapinta Trail. Our daily breakfasts of eggs, meats, pastries and naturally buckets of tea and coffee come to an end. We pack our things one last time before climbing to the spectacular summit of Mount Sonder, the highest point in the West MacDonnell Ranges. After clocking up the full distance of 238km summiting the highest point, it's back down to meet the vehicles, crack a bottle of bubbly to celebrate and bundle into the transport back to Alice Springs for a farewell dinner. If you've left any luggage back at the hostel we'll pick it up before heading to our final night. Tonight you're not in a tent, and you're not in a hostel. It's a hotel back in Alice Springs.
Day 13
Celebration, Breakfast & Goodbyes
Exchange details with new friends, airdrop photos, and grab a few last minute hugs because saying goodbyes after breakfast. You did it. The Larapinta trail. From here you can make your way to transport home. If you need to stay an extra night in the hostel or nearby hotel, just drop us a message and we'll be sure to help out. You'll all be missed.
- Bring A Friend -
Save up to £200 each
Highlights
- Early Bird Places Available -
Save up to £500 each
Included
Accommodation
10 x Nights Camping in the Outback
1 x Night Hostel in Alice Springs
1 x Night Hotel in Alice Springs
You must bring your own tent (Recommend a small 2 person tent)
Running
Guided Running of the Larapinta Trail
Total: 238km trail
Shortest: 12km
Longest: 29km
(Distances are weather dependent)
Meals
11 x Breakfast
11 x Lunch
12 x Dinner
A mix of packed Lunches & camp cooking
Travel
You'll be running to and from each night stop. We will transport your luggage for you but you'll need to run with a backpack that can carry at least 2 litres of water.
Activities
238km Guided Running
Equipment, Crew & Support Vehicles
Fire pits, Camp cooking, star gazing, river swims, plus a handful of optional extras.
Photos
Nick and the team will be taking photos throughout the weekend. You'll be sent these via a link post weekend.
Not Included
Travel
You must make your own way to and from your Run Weekend location. YHA in Alice Springs.
Travel Insurance. You must come prepared with appropriate travel insurance.
Extras
Extra drinks.
Additional food.
Extra snacks on run route.
Accommodation upgrades
Extra meals
Kit
TENT - YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN TENT, SLEEPING BAG, BED MAT. Run gear, bug spray, spare socks, swimwear and towel. Warm coat and layers. Any bags or bottles you may want for the runs.
Getting to us
Meeting Point
Your Run Weekend will commence at 17:00 at the YHA Alice Springs Hostel. Upon arrival the team will greet you for dinner and a welcome briefing.
Address: Cnr Parsons Street and, Leichhardt Terrace, Alice Springs NT 0870, Australia.
Questions? Email contact@runweekends.com
Arrival & Departure Times
Please arrive into Alice Springs between 14:00 and 17:00. Dinner and briefing from 18:00.
Your Run Weekend will conclude at 12:00 midday on your final day back in Alice Springs (So you are able to leave any excess travel luggage at the hotel).
Getting to Alice Springs
There are a number of options to reach the town of Alice Springs. (Please note these are suggestions only, we cannot guarantee travel routes) It's your responsibility to get to us.
Suggested Travel: Alice Springs is in the centre of Australia so look for the best flight deals to either Melbourne, Darwin, Adelaide, or Sydney and then catch an internal flight.
Fly (from UK):
London to Melbourne, Melbourne to Alice Springs.
Fly (Internal):
Melbourne to Alice Springs = 3 hour internal flight
Adelaide to Alice Springs = 4 hours internal flight
Darwin to Alice Springs = 5 hours internal flight
Important: Trip Confirmation
This trip operates with a maximum number of 16 guests and will be confirmed once a minimum number of 10 guests have booked. We will inform you once this number has been reached. If you wish to book travel in advance, please ensure your travel booking is fully refundable. We do not hold liability for loss of flights if this trip doesn't run. If the trip doesn't run your deposit along with any balance paid will be fully refunded.
Packing List
Mandatory Kit:
1 x Trail Running Shoes
1 x Running Bag with water carry capacity of at least 2L
1 x Medical / Allergies Card
1 x Head Torch
1 x Hand Sanitizer & Sun Scream
1 x Foil Blanket & Whistle
2 x Short-sleeved moisture-wicking running shirts
1 x Long-sleeved moisture-wicking running shirt
2 x Running shorts or leggings
1 x Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
5 x Running socks (merino wool or synthetic)
1 x Running hat or cap with sun protection
1 x Buff or bandana (for sun protection and versatility)
2 x Insulating layers for evening
Mandatory Camping Kit
1 x Tent (Max size 4 person, suggested smaller the better) - If you are coming as a pair/couple, we suggest sharing a tent)
1 x Bed Mat/Roll
1 x Sleeping Bag
Optional:
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Thick Layer
-
Medical Kit - Blister plasters etc
-
Watch & Charger
-
Bug spray & net
-
£50 - £100 Emergency Cash
-
Lightweight Battery Pack & Cable
-
Gloves and or Cap
-
Extra casual evening outfit
-
Extra snacks or drinks
-
Painkillers / Anti Inflammatories
-
Compression sleeves or socks for legs
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Waterproof phone case
-
Top Tip: Backup your phone before you come incase you drop it
SECURE YOUR RUN WEEKEND
DEPOSIT ONLY 20%
Pay in full, or just 20% at checkout and the rest no later than 60 days before your Run Weekend.
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