A Runner's Guide: The Top 5 Melbourne Parkruns
Melbourne city is a haven of hidden gems. This culturally rich metropolis has everything from secret alleyways blanketed in evocative art, to cosy hole-in-the-wall cafes, to star-lit rooftop bars that only unveil themselves when you know where to look.
Among Melbourne’s hidden gems are some of its best parkruns – a free, weekly, 5km event encouraging you to lace up and walk, jog or run your way to better mental wellbeing and physical health.
Melbourne has embraced the parkrun phenomenon in its entirety – supporting the inclusive, pressure-free and obligation-free event that has uplifted the lives of people of all ages and abilities.
Join us on a journey to discover 5 of the best parkruns in Melbourne – the Albert parkrun, Brimbank parkrun, Altona Beach parkrun, Studley parkrun and Maribyrnong parkrun. From the most popular parkrun in Melbourne to hidden away parkruns that are a nature lovers paradise, you’ll find your footing on this top 5 Melbourne parkruns list.
From pavement to trail, many of these parkruns are set among Melbourne’s iconic waterways – glistening lakes, meandering rivers or with majestic coastal views to treat both your legs and eyes.
Of course, what makes the best parkrun is subjective, and finding the best parkrun for you is truly about your personal journey and goals.
Parkrun is for everyone – from athletes seeking to supplement their (half) marathon training to new parents jogging with a pram, to walkers having a stroll among the eucalyptus and forming cherished friendships.
In fact, the average finish time of parkrunners/parkwalkers in Australia has slowed every year – and that’s worth celebrating because it means more people are enjoying the positive effects of movement – at any pace - on body and mind.
Whether you’re searching for a parkrun that’s flat and fast or hilly and scenic, there’s a Melbourne parkrun for you to rejuvenate your mood, move your body or simply enjoy socialising and volunteering among a friendly and supportive community.
Albert parkrun: Most popular Melbourne parkrun
Scenic and close to the city, flat and fast, the Albert parkrun ticks off the criteria of what makes a great parkrun for many participants. In fact, with attendance being potentially over 500 runners per week, it is one of the most if not the most popular parkruns in Australia.
Of course, this mean that the cosy community vibe of many smaller parkruns is traded for an atmosphere more reminiscent of Australia’s best marathons. Vibrant, busy and invigorating, it may be the parkrun for you.
It’s tricky to speculate on what one factor draws such a huge crowd – because the Albert parkrun has so many nuances to love. With the enchanting background of the city skyline and a joyful walk, jog or run around Melbourne’s most iconic lake, it’s an event that’s capable of both boosting your adrenaline and mood.
The beautiful scenery pairs with the amazing support of your fellow parkrunners and the volunteers. Laughter, smiles and a positive energy are nurtured among this diverse yet like-minded community.
The briefing area can’t be missed – from the fluoro vests of volunteers to the colourful running clothing and spirited voices of participants buzzing with anticipation. Professional yet fun, organised yet vibrant – the Albert parkrun lives true to the parkrun philosophy on an epic scale. Noone is left behind and everyone is celebrated.
If you prefer to run in a pack rather than running solo, the Albert parkrun certainly provides the motivation to fuel your steps and keep you on track of your fitness goals – and the four-legged runner of the family is also welcome (on lead).
The Albert Park Lake itself is a picturesque haven for birdlife like stunning pelicans and black swans. The lake is nestled amount this slice of urban life, with the metropolis of Melbourne and the CBD’s shining towers to the north offering a view your eyes crave.
The Albert parkrun community are huge advocates of the parkwalk initiative – with tail walkers to ensure there’s no such thing as last place, and friendly volunteers raising awareness of the mental, social and physical health benefits of walking at all stages of life.
Albert parkrun course
This flat course is run primarily on a gravel track and concrete path around Albert Lake’s perimeter, close to the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit. With areas of the course tree-lined to provide natural shade, you can have a moment of reprieve when the temperature rises.
Parkrunners, parkjoggers and parkwalkers gather for a briefing at the Coot Picnic area in Albert Park 10 minutes prior to start time. You can’t miss it – alongside being next to the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC), the popularity of this event means it’s easy to spot.
The Albert parkrun itself starts at the Palms Lawn, running anticlockwise around the Albert Park Lake path. Being simple and circular, there really isn’t any risk of becoming lost on this course – giving peace-of-mind to parkrun first-timers. Even so, friendly, supportive and encouraging volunteers are placed along the course to provide guidance.
The halfway point is at the southern end of the lake, marked by the boat shed. After doing a lap of the iconic Albert Park Lake, the 5km route concludes back at the Coot Picnic Area.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Albert parkrun course page.
Albert parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
On paper the Albert parkrun may be an ideal spot for chasing your PB, but in practice the crowds can make this a challenge, so it’s potentially worth leaving your competitive spirit at home.
It’s more about feeling the comradery of runner running alongside runner and ending a busy week with a rejuvenation of your senses in this picturesque setting, than shedding seconds off your 5km time. In saying that, the starting line congestion quickly dissipates as each of the 500+ runners in this vibrant mob flow into their personal stride.
There is the potential for chilly morning winds around the Albert Park Lake, so be prepared by layering for the weather with a lightweight wind jacket.
Rowing on and cycling around the lake are also popular pastimes – making it an inviting spot for outdoor recreational activity or to reconnect with your fitness. From picnic areas to playgrounds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Post-run, join your fellow parkrunners for a coffee catch-up at a local cafe.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Albert parkrun page.
Brimbank parkrun: Scenic & hilly Melbourne trail parkrun
About Brimbank parkrun & why you’ll love it
The hill-loving runners of Melbourne and parkrun tourists alike gravitate to Brimbank parkrun for not only the challenge, but the adventure.
This must-run trail parkrun is nestled away north-west of the city – with the CBD only 20km away (15 minute drive). About 60 parkrunners a week congregate here, creating a cosy, community vibe. Veiled in suburban surroundings, you could easily have driven passed the breathtaking, historic Brimbank Park without looking twice.
Knowing where to look (and where to run) can make all the difference – uncovering a sanctuary for Australian wildlife, lush picnic spots and perhaps your soon-to-be favourite parkrun. The Brimbank parkrun is complete with captivating river crossing and a sweat-inducing hill to soak in the view - which is absolutely spectacular on a clear day.
The myth that running can be repetitive and boring has no truth here. Stunning bushland and interesting undulations keep you invigorated in every stride. Trailblazers and nature enthusiasts will feel rejuvenated (and exhausted!) at Brimbank parkrun – and it’s well worth every laboured breath.
For a little bit of history, 2017 was an exciting year for parkrun in Victoria, with plenty of new parkruns popping up to inspire the community to lace up. Among them was Brimbank parkrun. This hilly trail parkrun earned plenty of hype and its value continued running strong in the years to follow.
It was also the location of a ‘social prescribing’ initiative, where doctors, nurses and administrative staff from Victoria’s medical centre in Caroline Springs adorned the metaphorical caps of parkrun volunteers. This initiative successfully promoted parkrun Australia for its health, wellbeing and social benefits.
No matter your pace or fitness goals, the uplifting benefits of parkrun on your life are potentially boundless. Take on the climb, and your positivity may also soar.
Brimbank parkrun course
Your trail running shoes will enjoy a plethora of surfaces beneath them at the Brimbank parkrun. From river crossings to dirt trails, bridges to bitumen – the Brimbank parkrun offers another world for your feet, eyes and mind to take in, yet with suburbia just beyond but hidden out of sight.
The starting point of Brimbank parkrun is next to the Lumbar & Co cafe – so yes, a post-run coffee is definitely on the menu. In terms of the route, it’s complicated with diverging trails on multiple crossroads, a bridge and hills – including a gentle hill just before the finish line. By no means is the route straight-forward, but with this in mind, parkrun is a fantastic, safe way to explore the trails with the support of volunteer marshals and participants keeping you on track.
This is an out-and-back course – so know that with every speedy downhill there’s an uphill climb to test your breathing technique. However, Brimbank parkrunners talk about the hills with fondness. It’s a rewarding and empowering feeling being able to push your body further and literally higher.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Brimbank parkrun course page.
Brimbank parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
This is a genuine ‘trail’ parkrun that challenges your body with heart-pumping hills while allowing you to run on softer, natural surfaces compared to pavement to lessen the impact to your joints.
After your parkrun adventure, check out everything else Brimbank parkrun has to offer, with its immersive, creativity-inspiring playgrounds for little athletes to soak in nature and explore, picturesque picnic spots and walking and cycling-friendly trails.
In true parkrun tradition, catch up with your fellow parkrunners for a coffee and conversation post-run at the Lumbar & Co cafe.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Brimbank parkrun page.
Altona Beach parkrun: Mostly flat Melbourne parkrun with coastal views
About Altona Beach parkrun & why you’ll love it
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the Altona Beach parkrun on a Saturday morning – a combination of memorable ocean views, fresh coastal air and inspiring company to motivate you in every stride.
Although the Altona Beach parkrun is a fairly PB-friendly course, the nature of it will encourage you to take the time to enjoy the scenery. Picturesque parklands, a bridge crossing over a serene creek, and breathtaking views of the Melbourne CBD from the halfway turnaround point make it a photo-worthy parkrun. Yes, there is a hill but it isn’t overly daunting and the view is well worth the effort.
In fact, this course is very family-friendly, so whether you’re running solo, with a four-legged running buddy (on leash) or the kids in tow, you can flow into your stride here – free of pressure.
The gently rising 100 Steps To Federation in the area are also well-worth a visit. They’re made of basalt rock recycled from Truganina Park’s former life as a tip (plus, little athlete’s love to count them on the way up!).
The friendly volunteers as always are the highlight. Whether you’re an Altona Beach parkrun regular, parkrun tourist or parkrun first-timer, you’ll feel welcome here at this well-organised, inclusive weekly event that caters to people of all ages and abilities.
Altona Beach parkrun course
The primarily flat terrain makes the Altona Beach parkrun suitable for everything from a rejuvenating walk, easy-going recovery jog or speed training. A variety of surfaces underfoot including concrete, gravel, sand and a wooden bridge, keeps your run invigorating without offering the true trail challenges of the Brimbank parkrun.
The Altona Beach parkrun is an out-and-back course that kicks off at Apex Park and follows the Bay Trail Walk to Truganina Park and back again. It starts heading in a north east direction, then circles back to follow the foreshore trail.
You’ll follow the path then head across the Laverton Creek wooden bridge at the 1.4km mark. Sticking to the Bay Trail Walk track, you’ll continue on the official parkrun route to conquer the hill at the halfway mark.
When reaching the pinnacle of Truganina Park at the turnaround point, take a breath and soak in your reward of a 360-degree view of the city, vibrant open greenery and Cheetham Wetlands.
For art enthusiasts, you can also take a moment to appreciate the ‘Time Beacon’ sculpture that marks the Truganina Park summit at one of the most stunning lookout points in Melbourne. Then it’s back the way you came to complete the 5K of scenic coastal views.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Altona Beach parkrun course page.
Altona Beach parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
Due to the exposed nature of the Altona Beach parkrun, the conditions may offer a combination of warmth and wind. Shade is sparse, meaning exposure to sun and the elements can be an issue. It’s definitely worth investing in a running cap and sunscreen to keep run-ready and potentially a lightweight wind running jacket.
In the warmer months, you may also spot a snake on the track – so be sure to check out these Australian snake bite prevention & treatment tips pre-run to stay safe while respecting the natural wildlife. Please be mindful the Altona Beach parkrun is run on shared paths, so be wary of other pedestrians and give way.
This stretch of trail and wide, open parklands has so much to offer for natural family entertainment in the outdoors – and with the kid-friendly and dog-friendly Altona Beach close by, it’s easy to make a day of it. Don’t forget to catch up with your fellow parkrunners for a post-run coffee at Hangar 1one2.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Altona Beach parkrun page.
Studley parkrun: Melbourne parkrun for nature lovers
About the Studley parkrun & why you’ll love it
The Studley parkrun is set in a bushland paradise. With the Melbourne CBD only a 5 minute drive away, it’s an easily accessible escape for city-goers seeking to take a breath of fresh air away from the cacophony of crowds.
In fact, it’s set in the largest expanse of natural bushland within close vicinity to the city centre. Among the lush greenery and native eucalyptus, the city feels a world away in this tranquil sanctuary for nature lovers and wildlife.
The Studley parkrun offers a slice of something special for both nature and history enthusiasts. It runs alongside Melbourne’s iconic waterway, the Yarra River, and crosses Kane’s Bridge.
This single-span suspension bridge is like a time capsule to 1929, when it was originally built. It was built as a gateway between Studley Park and Yarra Bend Park over the Yarra River. In 1934, floods wreaked havoc on the bridge, washing it downstream. In 1935, Kane's Bridge was rebuilt and still holds its historic, romantic charm today.
The natural area of Studley Park and Yarra Bend Park is home to native flora and fauna including birdlife, reptiles, grey-headed flying foxes, echidnas and platypus. For Melbourne residents that have visited this hidden gem, it quickly becomes a must-run, most-loved destination for trail walking and running.
This peaceful setting nurtures a strong, friendly community atmosphere – welcoming of parkrun first-timers to put your mind at ease, and encouraging for all walkers, joggers and runners to enjoy a rejuvenating and challenging 5K of fun.
Runners of all ages and abilities gravitate to Studley parkrun to workout they’re legs, lungs and adventurous spirit.
Studley parkrun course
The Studley parkrun course offers a combination of zig-zagging tracks, hills, undulations and flatter sections to give your legs the full experience packed into 5Ks. The flatter areas by the river offer a good balance to recover, take a breath and walk or run on. The ground underneath your feet varies from gravel trail paths to paved paths.
The historic Studley Park Boathouse marks the start and finishing area of the Studley parkrun course. This building was established in 1863 as the Yarra River’s oldest public boathouse and has since been revitalised for the Melbourne of today,
From here, you’ll follow the trail east around a 1km bushland track loop. The suspension footbridge offers an interesting running surface – narrow, and bouncy to run on. Expect it to sway with the rhythm of your running shoes on the wood.
You’ll cross it from the Studley Park side to the Yarra Bend Park side and head left onto the Dights Falls Loop Trail that follows the curves of the Yarra River as it meanders through the park.
This 2km stretch of track ends in a turnaround point to trace back your steps. However, after crossing the bridge for a second time you’ll turn right, heading straight back to the Studley Park Boathouse and the finish.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Studley parkrun course page.
Studley parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
The Studley Park and Yarra Bend Park area is a haven for outdoor lovers – from bird-watching to cycling the windy tracks, rowing to exploring this beautiful environment on foot – there’s something for everyone. While exploring this picturesque bushland, please practice trail etiquette and stick to the paths to prevent disturbing the native flora and fauna.
Your trail adventure doesn’t have to end post-parkrun, with bushwalking tracks catering to adventure seekers of every ability, including dog-friendly trails (on leash) at Yarra Bend Park. BBQ and sheltered picnic spots let you eat and bask among the eucalyptus trees to enjoy a relaxing and stimulating environment for your senses. Alternatively, you can check out the mini golf course or playground at Yarra Bend Park.
The Studley Park Boathouse Cafe offers the perfect spot for parkrunners to catch up over a coffee and stop to smell the eucalyptus, or to hire a canoe for a leisurely day on the river.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Studley parkrun page.
Maribyrnong parkrun: Fast & flat Melbourne parkrun
About the Maribyrnong parkrun & why you'll love it
The Maribyrnong parkrun is celebrated as being among the fastest parkruns in Melbourne – a PB-friendly course where personal records are broken, friendships are formed and milestones are made.
Albert parkrun is also a close contender for the fastest parkrun in Melbourne title. However, due to the Albert parkrun's outstandingly high attendance, the Maribyrnong parkrun may be the better option to race against your personal best.
In fact, in February 2020 the fastest parkrun time for a male runner in Australia was set at Maribyrnong parkrun by electrician and Olympian Liam Adams. Since then, other athletes have claimed the title and Liam’s current personal best of the course sits under 14 minutes, running the 5km in 13 minutes and 58 seconds in December 2022.
With its record-breaking history, the Maribyrnong parkrun attracts elite runners, with Liam himself participating in parkrun to supplement his marathon training.
However, in its nature parkrun caters to a vast spectrum of participants, from parents jogging with a pram to runners shedding seconds off their speedwork. Being a flat course in a scenic location, the Maribyrnong parkrun caters to everybody. Whether you’re a parkwalker, parkjogger or parkrunner, you’ll find your footing here along the meandering Maribyrnong River.
Parkrun first-timers quickly adopt Maribyrnong parkrun as their home parkrun, clocking in about 250 – 300 runners per week. The parkrun is equally praised for the organisation of this weekly event, as it is for the friendly volunteers and participants creating an uplifting atmosphere.
Whether you’re running here to soak in inspiration and trace the path of elite athletes, or strolling at a leisurely pace by the river to appreciate the beautiful birdlife, it’s a Melbourne parkrun for you.
Maribyrnong parkrun course
This easy-to-walk or run parkrun course is enjoyable at any pace with stunning scenery of the Maribyrnong River and lake, not to mention the encouraging and supportive company motivating you in every stride.
A combination of paved bitumen, concrete paths and no sharp turns offer smooth sailing whether running with a pram, running with older kids or simply flowing into your personal stride.
This out-and-back course is easy to navigate. Direction and distance markers help take the first-timers anxiety out of the event – keeping you smiling and confident from start to finish. It starts at Burton Crescent/Raleigh Road and follows the Maribyrnong River Trail south on the bike path, proceeding in the direction of Pipemakers Park with the river on your left-hand side.
After circling clockwise around Burndap Park, the parkrun course merges back with the bike path then heads north. On this leg of the parkrun, the river will be on your right-hand side as you continue back to the finish.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Maribyrnong parkrun course page.
Maribyrnong parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
The Maribyrnong parkrun is ideal for everything from getting your kids into running to boosting your half (marathon) training. As the Maribyrnong parkrun uses shared paths that can be narrow in sections, be wary and considerate of cyclists, other path users and your fellow parkwalkers/parkrunners.
For post-parkrun fun, the Pipemakers Park (named for its history as a pipemaking industrial site) on the route offers a vibrant retreat, including nature-inspired playground, rock inscribed with traditional Aboriginal artwork, beautiful mosaics and gardens.
Burndap Park offers wide, open greenery – so bring a picnic blanket and enjoy daydreaming by the lake, spotting birdlife and giving the little athlete of the family opportunity to release their energy with active play.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Maribyrnong parkrun page.
Is your favourite Melbourne parkrun missing from the list? We’d love to hear about it! Contact Sportitude Running and let us know why it’s the best Melbourne parkrun for you.
Happy running, and we’ll see you at parkrun!
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