Where the Mountains Test Your Spirit

The Elephant Trail Race invites you deep into the wild, rugged beauty of Cairncross State Forest—an arena built for runners who crave challenge, grit, and the kind of adventure that leaves a mark. Every climb, descent, and winding stretch of singletrack is shaped by the landscape itself, delivering a race experience that is as demanding as it is unforgettable.

This is a course that doesn’t just ask you to run. It asks you to rise.

With multiple directional running every 2 laps and multiple distances designed for every level of trail athlete, the Elephant Trail Race offers a journey for anyone ready to push their limits:

• 217km Ultra [135 Mile] – A legendary endurance epic of brutal climbs, remote singletrack, and unrelenting elevation.
  

• 160km Ultra [100 Mile] – The ultimate test of endurance. Multiple loops, relentless elevation, and a mental battle that defines true trail toughness.
• 100km Ultra [Solo] - A powerhouse challenge through steep climbs, sweeping ridgelines, and technical forest terrain.
  

• 100km Stage Race [3 Days] – Three days of rugged trails, steep ascents, and strategic ultra racing across Cairncross.
• 75km Stage Race — 2 Days – Two days of fast, technical forest running with signature Elephant climbs and flowing ridgelines.
• 50km Ultra – A bold, beautiful course that blends runnable sections with signature ETR climbs.
• 25km Course – A punchy, scenic loop that captures the essence of the Elephant—perfect for runners stepping up in distance.
• 13km Course – Fast, flowing, and forest‑rich. A great entry point for new trail runners or anyone chasing a shorter adventure.
• Forestry Corporation Free Kids Race — 2.5km – A fun, safe forest adventure introducing young runners to the magic of trail running.

Born from a passion for the mountains, the community, and the raw challenge of trail running, the Elephant Trail Race has become one of Australia’s most iconic endurance events. It’s more than a race - it’s a rite of passage. A chance to discover what you’re made of, surrounded by runners who share the same fire.

Whether you’re chasing a buckle, climbing toward a personal milestone, or simply embracing the wild beauty of Cairncross, this is your invitation to step into something extraordinary.

Train hard, trust your strength, and let the mountain shape your story.

Embrace the adventure of Deep Creek and try an 'OutFox' the course?

Join us in celebrating the beauty of Cairncross State Forest through the exhilarating experience of the Deep Creek Backyard Ultra. Discover a running event where every loop reveals a new aspect of the wild, where emotions run high, and where adventure awaits at every turn. Are you ready to push your limits?

Just one more, no more. Will the course 'Outfox' you, or will you be the one 'Outfoxing' Deep Creek.

Location: Cairncross State Forest

1 Loop = 6.7km

On the Hour, every hour, until 1 person left

Elevation: 125m per yard (1 loop)

Cairncross State Forest, Telegraph Point

Trails & Tails, Port Macquarie’s fun, fast‑growing forest run set in the stunning Cairncross State Forest near Telegraph Point. With sweeping views of Mount Cairncross and a course that blends smooth forest trails with playful elevation, this event is built for runners of every level.

TAT Race Options – A Distance for Everyone

4 distances over one huge day, from beginner‑friendly to challenge‑ready. Whether you’re chasing your first trail run or pushing for a new personal best, Trails & Tails delivers an unforgettable day in the forest.

Run solo or with your best friend/s (dog), we would love to see you all out there. Very family friendly.