A Runner's Guide to Canberra
Updated 26 Feb 2026
Where to go for your next run
The benefits of running are vast, from improved mental health and better sleep to a stronger heart and bones. Canberra offers the very best of the outdoors and a perfect canvas to go for a run.
Whether you're an experienced runner or a complete beginner, someone looking for their ten minute daily run or training to take part in the Canberra Marathon, there are plenty of options available.
Enjoy running through Canberra’s parks, trails, forests, urban green belts, town centres and lakesides, and be immersed in the city within nature by exploring it on foot.
Find a location
Canberra has over 90 parks to discover and soak in the scenery, with beauty on offer in each regardless of the season.
The ‘Find a Park’ map shows all the parks in Canberra, plus the activities on hand, how to get there, do’s and don’ts, and details of trails and tracks.
From routes around Lake Burley Griffin, trails with vertical gains in Stromlo Forest, and flat runs to elevated trails with majestic views, there’s something for everyone.
Do a Parkrun
Keen to be among others and run with a pack? Parkrun is a free community event for running, walking, jogging, and more. There are no time limits, no last place finishers, and runners can build motivation and momentum by challenging their personal best records.
Parkruns happening in Canberra include:
Woden Town parkrun
Wagi Bridge parkrun
Gungahlin parkrun
Umbagong District parkrun
Ginninderra parkrun
Mount Ainslie parkrun
Burley Griffin parkrun
Coombs parkrun
Tuggeranong parkrun
Point Hut Pond parkrun.
To learn more about parkruns and what they have to offer head here.
Sign up for a running event
Canberra is home to a range of marathons, triathlons and fun runs that cater to all skill and experience levels, and anyone is welcome to sign up. Events include:
Sri Chinmoy events such as the Sri Chinmoy Canberra Trail 100, regular fun runs, Sri Chinmoy Triple – Triathlon and more.
Canberra Colour Frenzy, a colourful atmosphere and extra fun. This non-competitive run caters for running, walking, skipping, or hopping through the colour-tastic course.
The Canberra Times Fun Run, one of Canberra’s most iconic events. The course is great for all levels of experience, and specifically great for beginners or those that need an easier run with a flatter course. All runners get a finisher medal.
The ultimate running experience in the capital, The Canberra Times Canberra Marathon. Taking place Saturday 11- Sunday 12 April, 2026, there are five different courses to compete in, and all levels of runners are invited to celebrate. There’s also a 3-day Festival Expo from 10-12 April with gear, giveaways and plenty of inspiration.
The Stromlo Running Festival, providing everything from a 5km run to a marathon, and the chance to experience stretches of wide trail up a vertical gain. Offering scenic views, this is a unique way to experience Canberra.
Capital to Coast, a multi-stage 100km foot race between Canberra and the South Coast of NSW. Each stage ranges from 8km to 15km in length and takes runners up and past various elevation and terrains. Run solo or join a relay team of up to four members.
Staying a little longer?
Join a run club or training program and make the most of all the running views on offer.
Canberra Runners has running events on frequently and in a range of locations.
Running for Resilience features several locations across Canberra during the week. Spearheaded by former Brumbies player and mental health advocate Ben Alexander.
SundaySeshCBR allows furry friends to join in. They take off from On Lake Café in Barton. Check out your next Sunday run.
Underground Run Club offers running with likeminded runners and grabbing a coffee afterwards. They meet at Mocan and Green Grout.
Females in Training ACT offers many different supported and self-driven training programs. Check out and sign up for a training program.
Achilles Australia helps Australians with a disability to enjoy a fun sociable active lifestyle. They welcome those to attend a regular training session and ensure members feel safe and supported. Find our more and sign up.
Peak Performance Running provides directions, answers and guidance for everyone on their running journey. They give weekly advice and help with achieving club goals.
Safety first
Whichever part of Canberra is being explored, running safety and precaution comes first.
Always:
let someone know where you are off to
wear sunscreen and a hat
bring adequate water
check the weather conditions.
Make sure you stretch and prepare and don’t push yourself well past your limits.
A version of this article originally appeared on Our Canberra. Subscribe to Our Canberra here.
There's always more to explore in Canberra
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