Westerfolds parkrun
Westerfolds parkrun is held inside Westerfolds Park in Templestowe, a treasured bushland reserve along the Yarra River. The undulating trail course winds through native eucalypt forest and along the river valley, making it one of the most scenic and technically interesting parkrun courses in Melbourne. Trail runners come from across the city for this event.
Terrain
Undulating
Surface
Trail
Difficulty
Moderate
Avg Turnout
160 runners
The Course
The single-lap course follows well-marked dirt trails through the native bushland of Westerfolds Park, dropping into the Yarra River valley and climbing back out along ridgeline tracks. The trail surface varies from packed earth to looser gravel, with tree roots and rocks adding interest. The descent to the river is the highlight of the course.
Course Records
Male Record
17:05
Female Record
19:30
Getting There
Parking
Free parking is available inside Westerfolds Park off Fitzsimons Lane, Templestowe. The carpark is large and accessible.
Public Transport
Public transport access is limited. The 903 bus to Templestowe is the closest option but still requires a walk. A car is recommended.
Post-Run Coffee
The Kiosk at Westerfolds Park is open on Saturday mornings for the parkrun. Manningham Road in Bulleen also has several cafes.
Tips for First Timers
Trail shoes or shoes with good grip are essential. Road shoes can be hazardous on the loose sections.
The descent to the Yarra River is steep, so control your pace going down to save your legs for the climb back.
Wildlife sightings including kangaroos and echidnas are common, so keep an eye on the path ahead.
Arrive early as the carpark can fill on popular mornings.
Best Time to Visit
Autumn for stunning colour in the eucalypt canopy. Avoid in wet weather as the trails become slippery.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What time does Westerfolds parkrun start?
Westerfolds parkrun starts at 8:00am every Saturday morning.
Do I need trail shoes for Westerfolds parkrun?
Yes, trail shoes are strongly recommended. The course includes loose gravel, packed dirt, tree roots and some steep sections that are hazardous in road shoes.
How hard is the Westerfolds parkrun course?
It is rated moderate with around 65 metres of elevation gain across the single lap. The descent to the Yarra and climb back are the two main challenges.
Is there public transport to Westerfolds parkrun?
Access is limited. The 903 bus to Templestowe is the closest option but still requires a walk. A car is recommended.
Is the course suitable for strollers?
No, the trail surface and elevation make Westerfolds unsuitable for strollers.
