Running in Hobart
Hobart offers something no other Australian capital can: a 1270m mountain looming directly over the city. kunanyi/Mount Wellington dominates the skyline and provides some of the best trail running in the country, right from the CBD. Down at sea level, the Hobart waterfront and Queens Domain provide flat, scenic running along the Derwent River. Tasmania's clean air, cool climate, and wild landscapes make every run feel like an escape into nature.
Best Seasons
Summer and Autumn
Terrain
Dramatic terrain variety
Top Race
Point to Pinnacle
Country
AU
Climate and Weather
Temperate oceanic climate, cooler than mainland Australia. Summer temperatures range from 14C to 23C, rarely exceeding 30C. Winter is cold, typically 4C to 12C, with occasional snow on kunanyi. The cool summers make Hobart one of the most comfortable running cities when the mainland is too hot.
Terrain and Landscape
Dramatic terrain variety. The waterfront is flat. kunanyi/Mount Wellington rises to 1270m directly behind the city with everything from gentle forest trails to steep alpine scrambles. Trail runners are spoiled.
Top Running Routes
kunanyi/Mount Wellington Pipeline Track
8 kmModerateA historic water pipeline trail that traverses the side of kunanyi through tall eucalyptus forest. One of the best urban trail runs in Australia.
Hobart Waterfront to MONA
12 kmEasyA flat path along the Derwent River from Sullivan's Cove to Glenorchy, passing MONA. A mix of boardwalk, sealed path, and quiet streets.
Queens Domain Loop
5 kmModerateA loop through the Queens Domain parkland overlooking the Derwent River and the city. Popular for lunchtime runs.
kunanyi/Mount Wellington Summit Trail
14 kmChallengingThe full ascent to the 1270m summit. Expect alpine conditions at the summit with wind, cold, and sometimes snow, even in summer.
Clarence Foreshore Trail
10 kmEasyA sealed path along the eastern shore of the Derwent River. Flat and scenic with views across to the city and kunanyi.
Popular Races
Point to Pinnacle
The world's steepest road race, climbing from the Hobart waterfront to the summit of kunanyi. Over 1200m of elevation gain.
Cadbury Marathon
Tasmania's premier marathon along the Derwent River.
Bruny Island Ultra Marathon
A point-to-point ultra along Bruny Island through stunning Tasmanian wilderness.
Hobart Running Festival
A multi-distance event including a half marathon around the Hobart waterfront.
Running Culture
Hobart's running community is small but deeply passionate. The mountain running culture is particularly strong. Running clubs like the Hobart Harriers organise regular events. Parkrun at Long Beach and New Town draws loyal crowds. Point to Pinnacle in November is the event everyone trains for.
Local Runner Tips
The Pipeline Track on kunanyi is the best trail run near any Australian CBD
Check kunanyi weather before heading up because the summit can be 15C colder than the city
The Hobart waterfront is well-lit and safe for early morning runs
Parkrun at Long Beach (Sandy Bay) is one of the most scenic parkruns in Australia
Bring layers because Hobart temperatures can swing dramatically
Safety Tips
kunanyi weather changes rapidly. Carry a wind jacket even on sunny days
Some trails on kunanyi are remote and poorly signposted. Carry a map
Watch for ice on kunanyi trails in winter
The waterfront path can be slippery after rain
Wear bright clothing on shared paths
Make Running in Hobart a Game
Hobart's compact size and dramatic elevation make for an intense Motera experience. Capture the waterfront, push up kunanyi for mountain territory, and expand along both shores of the Derwent. Every run makes a visible impact on the leaderboard.
Download Motera Free
MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best running route in Hobart?
The Pipeline Track on kunanyi (8 km) is the most unique urban trail run in Australia. For flat running, the waterfront path to MONA (12 km) is excellent.
What is Point to Pinnacle?
The world's steepest road race, climbing 21 km from the waterfront to the summit of kunanyi (1270m). Held in November.
Is Hobart good for trail running?
Exceptional. kunanyi (1270m) rises directly behind the CBD with dozens of trails. Few cities have this kind of trail access so close to the centre.
What is the weather like for running in Hobart?
Cooler than mainland Australia. Summer highs around 23C, making it comfortable when the mainland is too hot. Winter is cold (4C to 12C) but manageable.
Are there parkruns in Hobart?
Yes, at Long Beach (Sandy Bay) and New Town. They run at 9 AM on Saturdays in Tasmania.
More from Motera
What's Your Runner Type?
Take our free personality quiz to discover your running style
GPS Art Route Planner
Draw shapes on a map and generate runnable routes
Running Guides by State
Explore our state-by-state running guides across America
App Comparisons
Compare top running apps side by side and find your perfect fit
