Sydney's Top Five Scenic Runs

Spring is a great time to enjoy Sydney’s iconic running tracks. Here are five scenic running routes to get you moving.

1. The Bay Run: 

This seven-kilometre loop around the shores of Iron Cove Bay links Sydney’s inner west suburbs of Leichhardt, Haberfield, Drummoyne and Russell Lea. It is one of the most popular harbourside running tracks in Sydney, following the entire natural course of the cove and never deviating more than 20 metres from the water. A flat, well-maintained track makes it popular with cyclists, pram pushers and dog walkers, with lanes for walkers and cyclists clearly marked.

2. The Coastal Run: Bondi to Coogee: 

This 14-kilometre coastal run starts at the southern end of Bondi Beach and heads along the coastal path to Coogee via Tamarama and Bronte. On the way, runners will pass some of Sydney’s most popular bays and beaches including Clovelly and Gordon’s Bay.

3. Manly to North Head: 

Taking in Manly Beach and Shelly Beach, before heading uphill to North Head, this running route is picturesque and rewarding. The route includes Fairfax Lookout, where runners can enjoy postcard views across the Harbour.

4. The Pool to Pool Run - North Sydney:

Starting at North Sydney Pool at Milsons’ Point, this run goes over the Harbour Bridge, along the Cahill Expressway passing Circular Quay, and on to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair and Andrew Boy Charlton Pool. This run finishes with the reward of a swim in a stunning outdoor pool.

5. The Five Ponds Run - Centennial Park Run: 

A five-kilometre loop around five of the park’s ponds is popular with locals. The Centennial Parklands is home to 15,000 trees, wildlife, ponds, as well as cafés and restaurants to refuel at afterwards.

Still looking for a running challenge? Head to the Carcoar Cup Running Festival on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 November. The Carcoar Cup Running Festival has been described as one of the toughest and most beautiful in Australia. It is the ultimate family running event for all abilities and ages. Entrants will race on bitumen and dirt, through the towns of Neville, Mount Macquarie and Carcoar. The festival will include a 60-kilometre ultra-marathon, a 42-kilometre marathon, a half marathon and a new 10-kilometre race.