The Washpool World Heritage Trails running event is set to celebrate its 15th year on March 22-23, 2025.
This unique experience offers trail runners the opportunity to challenge themselves whilst enjoying the pristine scenery of New England’s World Heritage listed Gondwana Rainforests.
Organized by the Coffs Trail Runners Inc., this annual event has grown in popularity, attracting participants eager to conquer the diverse terrains of the Washpool and Gibraltar Range National Parks.
There had been some uncertainty earlier this month as to whether or not the event would go ahead, with heavy rainfall closing the adjacent Gwydir Highway, and both the Washpool and Gibraltar National Park.
Keelan Birch, from Coffs Trail Runners Inc confirmed yesterday that NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service have now cleared all the trails and the event has now got the green light to go ahead as planned.
With a base set at Mulligan’s Hut in the Gibraltar Range National Park, the event will span two days, accommodating various skill levels with three distinct race categories:
- 50km Ultra Marathon: Commencing at 9:00 AM on Saturday, March 22, this ultra-distance race with an elevation gain of 1,250m challenges participants with a course that weaves through the diverse landscapes of the national parks. Runners must navigate the route within a 9-hour cutoff, with specific checkpoints enforcing time limits to ensure safety and course management.
- 25km Race: Starting at 9:00 AM on Sunday, March 23, this mid-distance trail offers runners a moderately challenging course, featuring approximately 470 meters of elevation gain. The route provides a balance of technical trails and scenic views, making it suitable for intermediate trail runners.
- 9km Race: Also on Sunday, March 23, at 10:00 AM, the shortest race caters to beginners or those seeking a less demanding trail experience. With around 240 meters of elevation gain, participants can enjoy the lush rainforest scenery without the intensity of longer distances.
In a reflection of how popular this event has become all race categories for the 2025 edition have sold out, with a total of 336 participants registering to hit the trails this year.
Despite the event’s size however the organizers remain dedicated to minimizing the event’s environmental footprint. Aligning with the International Trail Running Association’s (ITRA) Green Charter, the event implements several eco-friendly practices including the event being completely disposable cup free and expecting their participants to strictly adhere to a “leave no trace” policy.
The Washpool event is also Trail Sisters Approved, meaning that it adheres to standards that enhance women’s experiences in trail racing, including equal podium spots and awards, availability of women’s specific apparel, provision of menstrual products at aid stations, and supportive policies for pregnant and postpartum runners.
Coffs Trail Runners Inc are a not-for-profit organisation who run social running clubs and larger scale trail running events throughout the year. If you’re interested in learning more about the group, or signing up to one of their future events, head over to their website.
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