AUSTRALIA
OCT 2025

Oct 5th - 12 Nights

Prices From £2799 | DEPOSIT ONLY £559

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Location: The Larapinta Trail, Australia

Accommodation: Camping BYO Tent

Running: 238km over 11 Running Days

Terrain: 90% Trail inc 7,500m Elevation

Spaces: 16 - BYO Tents (Bag Transfer Inc)

Ability: Level 3 of 4 [Difficulty Pyramid]

Focus: Back to basics. Run Camp Run.

11 DAYS GUIDED - RUNNING THE LARAPINTA TRAIL

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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. Nick and 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. Nick isn't the only ultra experienced runner leading the group. You will be guided by both Nick Butter and Erchana Murray-Bartlett. You can check out their credentials below. Resident Aussie Erchana is an exceptional runner, with many records and adventures under her belt. It's a bonus she brings the best energy and kindness to the 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 - Sunday - 5th October

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. Nick and Erchana 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 - Monday - 6th October

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 - Tuesday - 7th October

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.

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Day 4 - Wednesday - 8th October

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 - Thursday - 9th October

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 Nick and 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 - Friday - 10th October

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 - Saturday - 11th October

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 - Sunday - 12th October

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 - Monday - 13th October

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 - Tuesday - 14th October

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 - Wednesday - 15th October

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 - Thursday - 16th October

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 - Friday - 17th October

Celebration, Breakfast & Goodbyes

Exchange details with new friends, airdrop photos, and grab a few last minute hugs because saying goodbyes after breakfast. You did. 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.

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Highlights

Camp Cooking Wild Camping Cooking on Fire Run Weekends

CAMP COOKING - FRIENDSHIPS THAT LAST

Food glorious food. All meals are included with most being cooked together as a group. Unzip your tent in the morning and gather to decide what the group wants for breakfast. It's all flexible to suit you. From getting the camp chairs and tables out of the vehicles, to packing lunchboxes, to marshmallows around the fire - it's Run Camp Run style, and it's all part of the adventure.

ULTIMATE OUTBACK - THE LARAPINTA

The Larapinta trail is an exceptional undertaking. The outback offers so much nature, creepy crawlies, heat, starry skies, and of course personal challenge. The terrain isn't technical, but it's challenging and so blisters will almost certainly feature. From the lowest point in Alice Springs where we begin, to the highest point on Mount Sonder, the trail will treat you to a once in a lifetime adventure. With a small group size and inclusive approach, Run Weekends offers the chance to take on this magical trail.

RUN CAMP RUN - YOU ARE TAKEN CARE OF

You do the running, we do the rest. Running for over 11 days through the outback requires a lot of water, food, equipment and team work. Run Weekends is offering a hassle free adventure. With support vehicles to transport not only all our supplies, but also your luggage. This isn't a luxury trip, it's back to basics camping (and you bring your own tent), but the rest, we look after you well. Food, water, safety, and comfort - the team are on hand to look after you. If you want to skip a day, just hop in the jeep and rest the legs.

CREEKS, MOUNTAINS, AND WILDLIFE

The creeks, rivers, mountains and valleys. The outback may be empty at first look, but it's not when you're taking it all in at running pace. We'll pass through five main creeks, 3 rivers, 4 mountain peaks, and the three famous ranges of the West MacDonnell National Park. And we haven't even mentioned the wildlife.

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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: 2km

(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.

Early Bird

Standard

Limited Availability

1 Person
(Sharing)

£2999pp

2 Persons
(Sharing)

£2799pp

1 Person
(Sharing)

£3449pp

2 Persons
(Sharing)

£3249pp

All bookings (1 person or 2 persons) will require their own tent and camping essentials

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Run Leader

Nick Butter

You'll be running with Nick.

Nick is very keen for every Run Weekend to be as inclusive as possible. Runners of all abilities, shapes and sizes, ages and genders, and from all walks of life are welcome. You're in good hands: Nick has travelled to every corner of the world, run over 1000 marathons, and has dreamt up Run Weekends because he want's to showcase the world through running, just as he has. We all run together, we look after each other, and enjoy the weekends as a group.

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Getting to us

Meeting Point

Your Run Weekend will commence at 17:00 on Sunday 5th October at the YHA Alice Springs Hostel. Upon arrival Nick and 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 17th July back in Alice Springs (So you are able to leave any excess travel luggage at the hotel).

Please note we reserve the right to postpone or cancel this event based on number of places sold. This event specifically is a high cost to run. When booking your flights, please ensure they are flexible/cancellable

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

Toptip: Use Expedia for best rates

Event Host

Erchana Murray-Bartlett

You'll be running with Erchana too.

A legend and an Aussie. You're in good hands. Nick approached Erchana to create this trip because she's a total hero and this trip is a must. In 2023 Erchana ran a marathon a day for 150 days straight - from Cape York to Melbourne/Naarm. An epic voyage that led to personal growth, and ultimately a new world of running and coaching. Always immersed in the community of running, Erchana will not only bring a spark of joy to this trip but a good knowledge of the route and terrain too.

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