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Discover Australia’s Most Scenic Parkruns

by Sportitude

Australia is bountiful in natural beauty and rejuvenating running routes, nestled away from the cacophony of urban or city life. The most scenic parkruns in Australia encourage you to step foot in these picturesque surroundings.

Being out in nature is mood-boosting and stress-relieving, giving you an extra incentive to lace up in your running shoes. Nature can cultivate creativity, calmness, happiness, improve your sleep quality and your self-esteem. 

Lacing up for parkrun on a Saturday morning has helped millions of walkers, joggers and runners stay inspired in their fitness journey. As a free and pressure-free 5km weekly event, parkrun is inclusive and accessible to everyone. Combining the power of movement to nurture your physical and mental health with the support of an encouraging running community, parkrun can be life-changing.

Join us on a journey to discover 10 of the most scenic parkruns in Australia – the Clare Valley parkrun, Ocean View parkrun, Kangaroo Island parkrun, Phillip Island parkrun, Mt Clarence parkrun, Shellharbour parkrun, Kate Reed parkrun, Nambour parkrun, The Entrance parkrun and the Rockhampton parkrun.

Whether flowing into your running rhythm to the soothing sound of waves, or being enchanted with the fragrance of wildflowers by the trail, these parkruns treat you to a sensory experience in extraordinary environments.

Among these running events are not only the most breathtaking and beautiful parkruns in Australia, but also some of the hilliest and hardest parkruns in Australia. With the challenge of a steep climb comes the reward of not only stunning views, but the building of self-belief.

Persistence and participation over pace are key to conquering the hills of parkrun – so no matter your age or running ability, you can discover a new-found confidence. If you prefer a flatter or faster parkrun, don’t worry, you’re bound to find an Australian parkrun in our most scenic list that resonates with you. 

Rather than organising these scenic runs by location, we’ve categorised them by the scenery – from countryside to trail to coast - inspiring you to experience, explore and build memories. Stretch your legs by embracing the parkrun tourist phenomenon, and you may find out your favourite parkrun in Australia is yet to be discovered.

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Vineyard & countryside parkruns

Clare Valley parkrun, South Australia

“One of the most picturesque venues I've been to. This rates in my top 5 parkrun venues out of the 83 places I've been to.”

Nestled in one of the most enchanting wine regions of South Australia, the Clare Valley parkrun takes place on the meandering Riesling Trail, less than a 2-hour drive from Adelaide. You’ll walk, jog or run alongside a breathtaking expanse of natural bushland and majestic vineyards, with a vibrant and supportive community. Clare Valley is also home to native wildlife like kangaroos that you may be lucky enough to spot along the course.

This out-and-back route is run on smooth gravel roads, complete with a restored red arch bridge, and is family, pram and dog-friendly. It offers a gentle incline in the first 2.5km and gentle descent on the return trip. Take a deep breath because the air feels fresher here. Clare Valley parkrun participants praise not only the picturesque scenery, but the friendly volunteers and community spirit.

You’ll literally be setting foot on the history of this pristine region. What’s now the Riesling Trail – named in honour of the vineyards that surround it - was once an old railway corridor of the 1860s. It was closed in 1984, then 10 years later was given a new life as a recreational trail.

It reopened in 1994 as the Riesling Trail that runs 35km from Clare to Auburn. The Clare Valley parkrun gives you a 5km snapshot of what this iconic rail trial of South Australia has to offer.

It’s no secret why the Clare Valley Running Festival Half Marathon is also run on the Riesling Trail. Taking place in autumn, it’s an enchanting time of year to lace up in your running shoes, with the leaves metamorphosing into golden-amber hues for a memorable experience.  

While you’re in the area for the Clare Valley parkrun, explore the rolling countryside with the Watervale to Mt Horrocks walk, soak in the beauty of the lush vineyards or get cosy with a coffee in the quaint cafes of the surrounding towns and villages.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Clare Valley on the second Sunday of the month, check out the Clare Show Market at the Clare Town Hall for some homemade treats or handmade goodies to support the local small businesses. 

Want to know more about the Clare Valley parkrun? Check out:

Official Clare Valley parkrun page

Clare Valley parkrun course

Clare Valley parkrun Facebook

Ocean View parkrun, Queensland

“A very family orientated and welcoming parkrun located at the Ocean View Estates Winery. The course does have a couple of challenging hills and weaves through some sections of the vineyards which is magical. A beautiful location to run or walk and a must-do parkrun.”

The Ocean View parkrun is a must-run gem 50km north-west of Brisbane – combining a cosy community feel with inspiring views. There's no doubt that it's a worthwhile trip if you're a holiday goer discovering Brisbane, and are seeking a taste of the idyllic countryside.

The name of this parkrun shouldn't be taken literally. It is named for the family-owned winery it traverses, the Ocean View Estates Winery. Be captivated by the tranquil lake and this beautiful running and wedding venue, while reserving your craving for the coastline for a different event, like the Main Beach parkrun.

Here at Ocean View parkrun, in this haven between Dayboro and Mount Mee, it’s all about the enchanting vineyards among rolling hills and ever-vibrant countryside. Even the drive approaching the start line itself is praised for its picturesque scenery.

What’s special about the Ocean View parkrun is that you’ll be setting foot between the rows of vines themselves. The disease-resistant vines of this award-winning winery makes this opportunity possible, creating a truly immersive running experience. On paper, weaving through the vines also makes for a fun Ocean View parkrun course map, with the Strava Art coincidently resembling a foot and toes – which seems fitting for a parkrun! 

A well-marked course makes it easy to navigate this stunning winery. However, the Ocean View parkrun doesn’t clock up the big numbers of a city parkrun. Trading crowds for the country and a tight-knit community, it’s a wholesome experience. The friendliness of both the locals and parkrun tourists it attracts, combined with the amazing support of the volunteers is an absolute joy to be a part of.

This cross-country course predominantly puts lush grass underfoot and includes a shaded, tree-lined dirt track and creek, with the potential for mud. If you’re running with a pram, it’s recommended you take an all-terrain pram to help keep your little athlete comfortable, and ensure they are old enough to stay safe throughout the bumps and hills of this course.

Each time you lace up for the Ocean View parkrun feels like a new experience as you abandon the consistent nature of the road for a run among the vineyards in this natural setting. Here, the air is clear and the grounds of the vineyard are enriched by native wildlife. 

First-timer Ocean View parkrunners should keep in mind that with the beautiful scenery comes challenges. “The hill of despair” as it is known among the regulars, awaits on the course – and no warning is quite enough to prepare for the steep incline. The Ocean View parkrun is both a hill-lovers and nature-lovers paradise, and will test your legs with approximately 130 metres of elevation.

Nevertheless, embracing the challenge with a smile – with parkrun regulars coming back for more week on week – sets a fun-loving and high-spirited tone for the entire 5K. It’s a mesmerising sight to behold runners zig-zagging up the countryside. 

No matter your pace, persistence is key and will have you reaping the rewards of conquering the many hills. Of course, the scenery is not the only aspect that’s inspiring at Ocean View parkrun – its people are equally uplifting and memorable.

The Ocean View Estates restaurant or local cafes await you post-run to catch up with your fellow parkrunners over a coffee if you choose to do so. Thanks to the owners of Ocean View Estates Winery for sharing this stunning location with parkrun!

Want to know more about the Ocean View parkrun? Check out:

Official Ocean View parkrun page

Ocean View parkrun course

Ocean View parkrun Facebook

Island parkruns

Kangaroo Island parkrun, South Australia

“It is a beautiful place. Running through bush adjacent to the ocean is a delight.”

True to its name, Kangaroo Island (affectionately abbreviated to KI by locals) is a place of unique beauty that has seen both devastation and spectacular regeneration following the 2019-2020 summer bush fires. With a diverse plethora of native fauna (e.g. kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and dunnarts) calling Kangaroo Island home, it’s both a parkrun and natural retreat away from city life that’s worthy of your bucket list.

Just 13.5km of ocean separates Kangaroo Island, the third-largest island in Australia, from the coast of the mainland. The 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis on the mainland to Kangaroo Island is well-worth the trip when your destination allows you to enjoy this picturesque coastline foot first.

The Kangaroo Island parkrun takes place at Kingscote, the largest town of Kangaroo Island and the location of its sole airport. The scenery at Kangaroo Island parkrun itself is like no other.

Starting at the Tidal Pool, this out-and-back course offers dramatic views of the coastline, featuring an enchanting blue expanse of water. You’ll be pounding on the permanent paths with a seemingly endless ocean inspiring you in every stride. There are some hills and undulations that add a dash of additional challenge to this course, however the climb is freeing when you’re welcomed with such breathtaking views.

The population size of Kangaroo Island is relatively small, sitting around the 5000 mark. Nevertheless, the Kangaroo Island parkrun participants continue to steadily climb. It’s exciting to see that the benefits of parkrun have stretched to encompass island life – giving residents of this sanctuary easy access to the joy of parkrun, without a commute by ferry or plane.

Kangaroo Island is bountiful in natural attractions - from the 800 Australian sea lions making their home at Seal Bay, to breathtaking geological formations, like the Remarkable Rocks that resemble a nesting eagle. While you're here, be sure to explore the beauty Kangaroo Island has to offer.

Want to know more about the Kangaroo Island parkrun? Check out:

Official Kangaroo Island parkrun page

Kangaroo Island parkrun course

Kangaroo Island parkrun Facebook

Phillip Island parkrun, Victoria

“People are lovely and welcoming, and the run is beautiful.”

It’s no secret why the participants of Phillip Island parkrun arrive bright-eyed and bushy tailed. Phillip Island is only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne on the mainland, with easy access via the Phillip Island Bridge. Marine life is abundant and diverse among Phillip Island’s lush habitats. Not only is Phillip Island famous for being home to the largest little penguin colony on Earth, but the island is a natural paradise everywhere you turn.

Here, parkrun tourists get to soak in not only the natural beauty, but the blossoming community. The comradery, support and enthusiasm of the participants gives a glimpse of the welcome you receive from the wider Phillip Island population as you explore the monthly markets and cosy cafes.

As for the parkrun itself, it follows the border of Churchill Island anti-clockwise – a seaside sanctuary located off the eastern edge of Phillip Island. Among the friendly locals are Scottish Highland cattle that witness your journey on this out-and-back course. Along the journey, country meets coastline for a truly scenic adventure.

In terms of the terrain beneath your feet, the path is gravel from start to finish but is accommodatingly wide, allowing you to flow into your own rhythm. If you’re running with a pram, a 3-wheeled running pram is recommended to assist with shock absorption and manoeuvrability. 

Whether you’re 8 or 80 years of age, there’s something for everyone in this rejuvenating holiday destination and runner’s paradise, with an undulating course to enjoy at any pace.

Rewarding you with breathtaking views of Phillip Island and the picturesque coastline, beautiful barely describes what the Phillip Island parkrun has to offer. With its wide-open spaces, your mind feels lighter here. It is truly best discovered by setting foot there yourself.

To complete your adventure, turn it into a day trip. Discover heritage farming at Churchill Island, the penguin parade of Phillip Island or the other attractions its bountiful boardwalks has to offer, like the Australian fur seal colony at the Nobbies Centre.

Want to know more about the Phillip Island parkrun? Check out:

Official Phillip Island parkrun page

Phillip Island parkrun course

Phillip Island parkrun Facebook

Coastal & beach parkruns

Mt Clarence parkrun, Western Australia

“Hard to keep running with nature's beauty surrounding you. Kept stopping to take pics!”

A beautifully breathtaking challenge (approx. 89m elevation), the Mt Clarence parkrun in Albany, Western Australia hugs to the edge of the mountain that rises dramatically from sea level. Needless to say, as the boardwalk weaves up the mountain you are welcomed with astonishing coastal views, native bushland with the potential to spot wildlife and wildflowers, and fatigued legs.

The word undulations doesn’t skim the surface of the challenge Mt Clarence parkrun can present to both your muscles and mental resilience. However, with that challenge is the memorable reward of not only the spectacular scenery, but the nurturing of your mental and physical fitness. If the timing is right (May to early October), you may even spot migrating whales from your vantage point on this picturesque pilgrimage.

Besides a thorough warm up beforehand, there’s no easing yourself into the Mt Clarence parkrun, as an uphill in the first kilometre wakes up your muscles immediately as you hike the Ellen Cove boardwalk.

As an out-and-back course, you can look forward to the kindness to your legs this downhill represents on the return trip, and the smiles of the parkrunners leading the pack on their way back to encourage you onwards. With a rollercoaster of ups and downs in between as you wind up the mountain for 2.5km then back, your leg muscles certainly get a balanced and thorough workout.

On your journey, stunning views of the Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound will entice you to stop to snap a photo. The Mt Clarence parkrun combines a spectacular setting with historic significance as this is where Australia’s first convoy of ships gathered before departing for World War I. Along the way, there are also commemorative statues that give a glimpse into the past.

Aside from the serene blue waters and captivating coastal views, it’s the strength of spirit among this supportive parkrun community – both volunteers and participants - that keeps you motivated for the uphill climb ahead. Join them for a coffee and a chat at the Three Anchors restaurant post-parkrun.

Want to know more about the Mt Clarence parkrun? Check out:

Official Mt Clarence parkrun page

Mt Clarence parkrun course

Mt Clarence parkrun Facebook

Shellharbour parkrun, New South Wales

“Wow what a course! Grass, gravel, rocks, pavement. The course no longer goes on the beach, saving us from the sand.”

With a name like Shellharbour – referring to the bountiful shells on the pristine sandy beaches – the Shellharbour parkrun naturally meets the criteria of being among Australia’s most scenic parkruns. 30 minutes south of the Wollongong CBD, Shellharbour parkrun is a delight for parkrun tourists and locals alike.

In fact, according to the official course description of Shellharbour parkrun, “This is one of the most scenic locations you will find on the global parkrun map”. However, nothing bests discovering it for yourself.

In June 2024, Shellharbour parkrun celebrated its 10th birthday. This coastal course may have evolved within this time, but remains honest to the spectacular scenery that makes it an uplifting experience on a Saturday morning.

Originally, the Shellharbour parkrun course featured approximately 300m – 400m of running on the picturesque sand of Killalea Beach (also known as 'The Farm'), and circled around the Killalea Lagoon. This made each week a new adventure for the ever-changing tide meant the sand beneath your feet could either be soft – causing you to fight that ‘sinking feeling’, or densely-packed where the waves washing ashore turned it rock-hard.

With this iconic parkrun course adjusted to be out-and-back, eliminating the stretch of sand and the one-lap loop of Killalea Lagoon, it’s now more accommodating for walkers, joggers and runners that prefer to keep their running shoes sand-free.

Nevertheless, post-parkrun many participants can be found cooling off at The Farm – one of Australia’s most captivating surf beaches. According to Tourism Australia, as of 2024 it ranks #2 in Australia’s Best Beaches list, only second to Squeaky Beach in Victoria. For another favourite surfing beach around Shellharbour, check out Minnamurra Beach (also known as 'Mystics' Beach).

Starting from The Farm Kiosk, the terrain underfoot at Shellharbour parkrun is true of a cross-country experience, with a combination of lush grass and compacted trail/gravel. Be aware this means the terrain isn’t as stable as pavement, with the potential for loose stones.

Two prominent hills – one after each major turnaround point - mean it’s important to pay attention to your pacing strategy, leaving some energy in reserve to endure these challenging climbs. Of course, walking is an acceptable way to travel.

The scenery from the final turnaround point within the grassy gulley is breathtaking – providing expansive, photo-worthy views of Killalea Beach before treating you to a back-breaking hill. It's shorter than the first, but with the steepest gradient on the course. We'd like to say the scenery is so beautiful that it doesn't feel like you’re exercising at all, but the hills and your aching legs speak for themselves. Nevertheless, each challenging step is well-worth the effort with the reward of the memorable views and perhaps even more significantly, the sense of pride you'll have in your achievement.

Taking place at the Killalea Regional Park, dogs are prohibited from joining the Shellharbour parkrun to protect wildlife and the environment. However, the silver lining is the potential to spot native fauna along this course depending on the time of year – kookaburras, wallabies, possums, eastern snake-necked turtles and even dolphins playing in the waves. Snakes are also a possibility, but please respect that this is their natural environment, and put these Australian Snake Bite Prevention & Treatment tips into action as a precaution before lacing up in your running shoes.

Want to know more about the Shellharbour parkrun? Check out:

Official Shellharbour parkrun page

Shellharbour parkrun course

Shellharbour parkrun Facebook

Special Mention:

For parkrunners that don’t want to miss out on the feeling of sand between your toes, check out The Beaches parkrun that’s true to its name, encouraging you to leave your running shoes behind for 5K of beach running. For parkrunners that prefer a shorter stretch of sand, the Cottonsloe parkun features 800m by the waves.

Trail parkruns

Kate Reed parkrun, Tasmania

“What a fantastic trail parkrun. A great undulating course in a beautiful location. Yes, it is a little technical and challenging but it's got to be one of the best parkruns around. If you are chasing a 5km PB then go somewhere else. If you want a fabulous timed trail run then this is the parkrun for you.”

Lace up in your best trail running shoes, because the Kate Reed parkrun is your invitation to adventure. With no tarmac in sight, this is undeniably a trail parkrun – with all the beauty and challenge a true trail represents.

Located at the Kate Reed Nature Recreation Area, the Kate Reed parkrun allows you to discover the natural world while getting your heart racing, with technical terrain that is guaranteed to test your leg strength.

This trail loop within temperate eucalypt bush provides a snapshot of the captivating Tasmanian environment. Leave your running headphones behind, because the Kate Reed parkrun is complete with an orchestra of native bird song providing a soundtrack to your 5K journey.

Underfoot, a combination of the main fire trail, meandering single track and short boardwalk keeps you intrigued from start to finish. Leaf litter forms a blanket over the path in sections, whereas twisted roots create an obstacle course of their own to navigate over or around in others. The last 800m stretch is under an enchanting casuarina tree canopy, before the smiling faces of volunteers greet you at the finish line. 

The Kate Reed parkrun trades any pursuits to achieve a PB, for the joy of untouched bushland and hill running. It’s ideal for first-timers to step onto Kate Reed parkrun with their eyes open in terms of the challenge it presents, with a level of fitness recommended.

Even so, parkwalkers upwards of 80 years old have completed this course and its undulations with the support and encouragement of volunteers, including the compassionate Tail Walker, who ensures no participants are left behind.

True to the philosophy of parkrun, you can make this course your own – whether enjoying a leisurely bushwalk with the family among a vibrant community, or really committing to the hills for on-the-go strength training. Slowing down certainly has its benefits, allowing you to keep on the lookout for native wildlife such as echidnas and wallabies that may be spotted through the trees.

No matter your age, ability or pace, you’ll be celebrated on this beautiful bushland course for having the courage to participate and to get your trail running shoes dirty – wearing the mud with pride.

The uplifting chatter of parkrunners pre-, during and post-run is evidence of the positive benefits this scenic environment (particularly when shared) has on those that set foot here. Thank you to Event Director Leanne Evans – whose passion for trail running set the foundations for the Kate Reed parkrun and made it possible.

Want to know more about the Kate Reed parkrun? Check out:

Official Kate Reed parkrun page

Kate Reed parkrun course

Kate Reed parkrun Facebook

Nambour parkrun, Queensland

“Beautiful stunning bush setting takes your mind off what is a challenging run.”

Nestled among the entrancing eucalypt forest of Parklands Regional Park and recognised as one of the hardest and hilliest parkruns in Australia (potentially even #1 on the toughest parkrun list), the Nambour parkrun is celebrated for its challenge and its natural beauty.

For safety reasons, the traditional ‘A’ course (165m in elevation) is off-limits in wet conditions due to an overflowing creek crossing, but don’t worry, because the plan ‘B’ course is just as thrilling – and even steeper! Rather than crossing Rocky Creek, it turns around and puts you face-to-face with The Twins, the largest hill of Nambour parkrun.

Clocking up 185 metres in elevation, plan B will have you panting for breath, but the rejuvenating effect of this wild trail run is worth every muscle ache. It surpasses the elevation gain of some of Australia’s most hilly parkruns including the Cleland parkrun in the Adelaide Hills and Bunyaville parkrun, north-west of Brisbane.

There's no doubt that if you’re seeking a tough trail run, the Nambour parkrun will have you nurturing every slither of your mental resilience. It’s certainly one for your bucket list if you’re a parkrun tourist enthusiastic for your next challenge in a scenic setting.

True to parkrun, the Nambour parkrun course is 5km in distance. However, it feels like 10km of perceived effort due to the dramatically steep inclines and descents. Your legs may (no, make that will) feel heavier for it, but mentally you’ll feel lighter and more accomplished for taking the leap to conquer the hills of Nambour parkrun.

Not only that, but rocky and gravel trails will test the ability of your feet to navigate around obstacles, and encourage you to wear every grain of dirt on your running clothing with pride.

When at Nambour parkrun, take a moment to stop and tune into your senses. Free of traffic noise and pollution, you can hear water droplets as they slide off the leaves, or soak in the scent of eucalyptus that is purely unique to the Australian bush. This serene slice of bush therapy may be just what you need to reconnect with your well-being and take a breather from the always-on nature of urban or city life.

Equally as famous as the hills of Nambour parkrun are infamous, Fluffy the Emu makes himself easy to spot. Fluffy is Nambour parkrun’s real-life and photogenic mascot, and a native resident of the Parklands Conservation Area. Known to give a friendly welcome to parkrunners as he dashes enthusiastically around the trail, Fluffy is anything but shy and is a Nambour parkrun regular. 

Official Nambour parkrun page

Nambour parkrun course

Nambour parkrun Facebook

Lake / lagoon & garden parkruns

The Entrance parkrun, New South Wales

“… a relatively flat, out and back, accurately measured 5km course that follows the picturesque Tuggerah Lake foreshore.”

Running along the border of the magnificent Tuggerah Lake, The Entrance parkrun is a refreshingly flat option amongst the most scenic Australian parkruns. Located in the suburb of Long Jetty on the Central Coast, The Entrance parkrun and its stunning lake views are accessible to everyone – whether you are running with a pram or have the furry member of the family enthusiastically pulling you along.

The suburb of Long Jetty is accurately named for its three heritage jetties - Parry's Jetty, Watkin's Jetty and - no surprises here - the longest, being Long Jetty. Built in 1915, it's over a century old and at 351 metres, it's also the longest jetty in New South Wales.

Starting from Picnic Point Reserve, The Entrance parkrun is the perfect choice if words like calm and peaceful resonate with you on a Saturday morning. Words like coffee and croissants may also be on the agenda post-parkrun with a plethora of cafes an easy walk away.

You don’t get just a glimpse of the water either – The Entrance parkrun has virtually 5K of unobstructed lake views that are rejuvenating for your mind and body throughout this out-and-back course. If you have a fondness for birdwatching, this is your parkrun paradise. Tuggerah Lake is a sanctuary for wetland wildlife - everything from black swans to pelicans and even lesser-known species like the endangered little tern. 

It’s easy to flow into your stride with the smooth and consistent nature of the concrete paths beneath your feet on The Entrance parkrun’s gentle linear course. Without any turns beside the single turn-around point, it’s a stress-free parkrun to wake up to. The 800m mark offers a small pocket that’s reminiscent of a rainforest to enchant people of all ages. A dash of sandy shoreline, blanket of lush grass and playground make it a worthy destination for a family picnic.

Post-parkrun, there's plenty of scenic gems to admire just a short drive away – from the stunning views of Crackneck Point Lookout (an ideal whale watching spot from May to August), to the whimsical Norah Head lighthouse. Come back to the 351m Long Jetty itself at sunset to catch a mesmerising, photo-worthy display of pearly pink or golden hues across Tuggerah Lake.

Want to know more about The Entrance parkrun? Check out:

Official The Entrance parkrun page

The Entrance parkrun course

The Entrance parkrun Facebook

Rockhampton parkrun, Queensland

“Love this course that winds through the Botanic gardens.”

The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens is a heritage-listed, nature-lovers paradise – so naturally, it’s a celebrated location for parkrun. With a history dating back to 1869, the Rockhampton Botanic gardens have dazzled visitors for over a century and a half. Today, among its highlights include everything from the 150 year old canopy of whimsical Banyan figs to the serene Japanese Gardens, that were originally designed to honour the Treaty of Friendship that followed after World War II.

From towering palms and veils of bamboo, to the picturesque lagoon – the Rockhampton parkrun itself is a rejuvenating experience for your eyes, body and mind. Naturally, you’ll want to stop to truly appreciate the vibrant flora and fauna of this beautifully manicured garden - and in some areas the term rainforest truly feels more fitting.

Besides the walkers, joggers and runners that are drawn to the beauty of the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, both emus and pelicans may be seen along the enchanting garden course. It puts a variety of surfaces beneath your feet – paved paths, gravel paths and lush grass.

This Queensland parkrun is pram-friendly (not dog-friendly) and offers some challenging moments that make the journey even more rewarding. With a hill awaiting you on the course, the Rockhampton parkrun is ideal to get your blood flowing to kick-start your weekend.

The tallest war monument in Queensland - the Cenotaph to the First World War - is breathtaking to behold at the end of your 5K parkrun. The free Rockhampton Zoo within the botanic gardens is also a must-visit for families and Rockhampton parkrun tourists. 

Alongside the natural, meticulously landscaped beauty of the botanic gardens, the Rockhampton parkrun is celebrated for its inclusiveness, with the encouragement and support of volunteers motivating you to the finish line.

Want to know more about the Rockhampton parkrun? Check out:

Official Rockhampton parkrun page

Rockhampton parkrun course

Rockhampton parkrun Facebook


With nearly 500 parkruns in Australia, narrowing down the list to discover the most scenic is certainly a challenge! 

Is your favourite Australian parkrun missing from the list? We’d love to hear about it. Contact Sportitude Running and let us know why you believe it's the most scenic parkrun in Australia.

Looking for a parkrun near you? Discover some of the best parkruns across different Australian locations:

Happy running!