The Wonderfalls Trail Run is based near Lorne on the Great Ocean Road, where the Great Otway National Park climbs off the coast into cool temperate rainforest. Every course is shaped by water, opening with a run of Cumberland River crossings before the trails head up into the forest.
The Otways hold some of the tallest trees in Victoria, fed by some of the highest rainfall in the state, and the running reflects it: fern-lined gullies, flowing single track, steady climbs and fast descents, with waterfalls appearing the deeper you go. It’s a landscape most visitors only ever see from the road.
From the 6km to the 75km, every distance follows the water further into the Otways. The shorter courses are a rewarding introduction to the forest, while the marathon and ultra distances reach remote waterfalls and hidden valleys, and the terrain rewards newcomers and experienced runners alike.
Wonderfalls isn’t only about the finish. It’s about slowing down enough to take in one of Victoria’s great natural places, on trails as rewarding as they are memorable. Supported by the Trailsplus community and its volunteers, it’s become a favourite for runners chasing adventure, connection and the chance to see the Otways on foot.
If you’ve been thinking about taking on the Trailsplus Surf Coast Wonderfalls Trail Run, here’s an extra reason to enter!
All eligible participants who register before 7 August will go into the draw to win one of 66 Lorne Spend Cards, each valued at $50, to spend at participating local businesses while you’re in town.
To enter, simply:
It’s that easy!
Gather your friends, lace up your runners and challenge yourself on the stunning Surf Coast Trails.
This initiative is proudly funded by the teams behind the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, following changes to the Surf Coast Classic in 2026.
The competition is open to eligible participants who register by 7 August 2026.
If you’ve been thinking about entering the Surf Coast Wonderfalls Trail Run for the first time, this is your year.
All first-time Wonderfalls participants who cross the finish line on 15 August 2026 will receive a $50 Lorne Spend Card to spend at participating local businesses.
Gather your friends, lace up your runners, and take on the trails: you’ll be rewarded for giving it a go!
This project was funded by teams from the Mapei Cadel Eveans Great Ocean Road Race, following changes to the Surf Coast Classic in 2026.
Available to first-time Wonderfalls participants while Lorne Spend Card stocks last.
Whether this is your very first trail event or you’re chasing a fast run through beautiful forest, the 6km is a rewarding introduction to the Otways for runners of all experience levels.
A step up in distance through rainforest and river valleys, long enough to test your rhythm, short enough to stay fast and fun.
The 25km rewards patience and steady pacing as the trail climbs deeper into the forest. It’s a distance that encourages runners to discover they’re capable of more than they imagined.
The trail marathon is an achievement few forget. Every ascent, descent and finish line becomes part of a story earned through commitment, resilience and adventure.
The 50km is where preparation meets possibility. Reaching the finish is more than completing an ultramarathon, it’s discovering just how far determination can take you.
The 75km is the ultimate Wonderfalls challenge, following the rivers and waterfalls to the most remote corners of the Otways, where every runner writes their own story of endurance.
A course shaped by water, following the Cumberland River and the rugged Otway trails behind Lorne.
Runners will experience:
From the 6km through to the 75km ultra, every distance follows the water deeper into the Otways.
| Check-in | Briefing | Race Start | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75km | 4:30am | 4:45am | 5:00am |
| 50km | 7:00am | 7:45am | 8:00am |
| 42km | 7:00am | 7:45am | 8:00am |
| 25km | 9:00am | 9:45am | 10:00am |
| 14km | 10:00am | 10:45am | 11:00am |
| 6km | 11:00am | 11:45am | 12:00pm |
Cumberland River Holiday Park
2680 Great Ocean Road Cumberland River
VIC 3232
Located along the iconic Great Ocean Road, just outside the seaside town of Lorne, Wonderfalls takes runners into the rugged Otway mountains, with river crossings, coastal bushland, forest trails and spectacular waterfall scenery.
Extend your stay and discover more of the Surf Coast. Visit www.iamlorne.com.au to find places to stay, where to eat and drink, local attractions, experiences and inspiration to help you make the most of your visit.
Download the official Wonderfalls trail map for every distance, from the 6km to the 75km. Each map shows the full course, elevation and river crossings across the Otways.
The Wonderfalls Trail Run is the third event in the Trailsplus Mountain Series, five trail running events across some of Victoria’s most distinctive destinations. Each has its own history, terrain and character, from the waterfalls and rainforest of the Otways to the granite peaks of the You Yangs and the volcanic forests of Mt Macedon. Take on a single event, or follow the journey across all five.
Trailsplus has now contributed more than $90,000 to Canteen Victoria thanks to the support of runners, volunteers and the wider trail running community.
As a thank you, volunteers can earn race entry credits to use towards a future Trailsplus event. After volunteering, simply contact us when you’re ready to enter your next race and we’ll provide a discount code for your entry.
