Tower Trail Run

Through volcanic craters. Over limestone ridges. Past a historic stone tower. The Tower Trail Run returns to Mount Gambier, South Australia, on Sunday, June 14, 2026, for its 10th anniversary. Five distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, 32 km, and 56 km. A trail running challenge through a landscape shaped by volcanoes, towers, and time — right on the doorstep of the Limestone Coast.

The Landscape:

• Mount Gambier is home to the famous Blue Lake, an active volcanic crater filled with cobalt‑blue water (color changes in December, stays blue through race week)
• The course runs through the Mount Gambier volcanic complex — limestone, basalt, and ancient lava flows
• Runners pass the historic Centenary Tower (stone observation tower built 1900‑1903, perched atop the volcanic crater rim)
• Views of the city, the surrounding farmland, and the crater lakes (Blue Lake, Valley Lake, Leg of Mutton Lake)
• Terrain changes character: singletrack, open trail, technical limestone sections (sharp and rocky), and short sealed path connectors

Course Features:

• Professionally marked and supported trails with experienced course marshals at key turns
• Well‑placed aid stations across all longer distances (56 km and 32 km have multiple stations with water, electrolyte, gels, fruit, and snacks)
• Cut‑off times clearly posted for each distance (specific times on event website)
• 10th anniversary edition — expect special finish line celebrations and commemorative swag

What's Included:

• Chip timing (net time) for all distances
• Finisher medal for every participant who crosses the line
• Technical event shirt (pre‑ordered during registration — limited extras available on race day)
• Post‑race refreshments (local food, drinks, and recovery snacks)
• Bag drop at start/finish area
• Medical support on course and at finish line
• Race photos available for download after the event
• Professional results posted online within 24 hours
• Age category awards (3 deep, depending on participation numbers)

Logistics:

• Race day registration opens at 6:00 AM (subject to capacity — online registration strongly recommended)
• Bib pickup: Saturday, June 13 (time TBD) and race morning from 6:00 AM at the start/finish village near the Centenary Tower base
• Free parking available at designated lots near the start line (follow volunteer signage)
• Toilets at start/finish and at select aid stations
• No dogs allowed on any course (for runner safety and wildlife protection)
• Strollers permitted only on 5 km and 10 km (walkers only, not in running waves)
• Mandatory gear for 56 km and 32 km: hydration capacity (1.5 L minimum), mobile phone, emergency blanket, whistle, rain jacket (weather dependent — check race briefing)

Community & Atmosphere:

• "A welcoming, no‑ego trail running culture" — built for beginners through to ultra runners
• Proudly community‑driven and locally supported by Mount Gambier businesses and Limestone Coast volunteers
• Runners return year after year for the challenging courses, supportive atmosphere, and strong sense of connection to the volcanic landscape
• Volunteer opportunities available — course marshals, aid station crew, setup/packdown, registration

10th Anniversary Extras:

• Commemorative race shirt design exclusive to 2026
• Special finish line medal marking the decade milestone
• Post‑race celebration with local food trucks, live music, and a beer garden (sponsor dependent)
• Random prize draw for all finishers (gear vouchers, local produce, next year's entry)