Trail running course through mixed terrain in New South Wales, AU

Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB 32K

32K·610m gain·Thredbo, New South Wales

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Distance32K

Gain610m

Date26 Nov 2026

Difficulty2/5

About This Race

The most accessible distance that still delivers the authentic Snowy Mountains trail running experience. Perfect for runners new to mountain trail running or those seeking a challenging but manageable alpine adventure.

Location

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Practical Info

Accommodation

Event hub located at Friday Flat in Thredbo, Australia's ultimate alpine playground with lakeside accommodation and mountain resort options.

Best For

ultrarunnersmountain runnersexperienced trail runners

Notable Features

Part of the prestigious UTMB World Series, this event features unrivalled crew access and spectator points throughout the Snowy Mountains. The race takes advantage of Australia's unique alpine environment, offering runners the chance to experience snow gum forests, granite outcrops, and crystal-clear mountain streams in a festival atmosphere designed for the entire trail running community.

Other Distances at This Event

50K

The route departs from Thredbo Village and moves into the Kosciuszko National Park backcountry. Runners encounter mixed terrain that includes established trails through snow gum forests and more exposed sections across alpine areas. The Snowy Mountains present a different alpine experience than European or North American ranges, with gentler gradient approaches to elevation and vegetation adapted to both summer heat and winter snow. The course takes advantage of the region's network of historic trails, some originally cut for grazing and mountain access in the 19th century.

102K

Starting from Thredbo Village at 1,370 meters elevation, the course moves through varied mountain ecosystems that shift from dense eucalypt forest to windswept alpine herb fields. Technical singletrack sections alternate with more runnable fire road stretches, though the precise route configuration varies by year. Runners navigate rocky trail surfaces, root systems in lower elevations, and exposed ridgeline sections where weather conditions can change rapidly regardless of season.

161K

The 161K course explores the full breadth of Kosciuszko National Park's alpine zone, linking classic peaks and remote valleys in a challenging loop. Runners traverse varied terrain including singletrack through snow gum forests, exposed ridgelines with panoramic mountain views, technical rocky sections requiring careful footwork, and sections along historic cattlemen's trails. The route visits iconic locations in Australian alpine history while pushing into lesser-known wilderness areas where runners experience genuine remoteness. Extended sections above treeline expose participants to whatever weather the Snowy Mountains deliver, making this as much a test of mountain craft as running fitness.