A Runner's Guide: The Top 5 Sydney Parkruns

Sydneysiders love to run, and it’s no secret there’s a plethora of parkruns across the New South Wales capital to inspire every walker, jogger and runner on their fitness journey.

Sydney is known for its spectacular city and iconic monuments. However, we took our parkrun adventure beyond the concrete jungle to provide insight on both Sydney’s popular paradises and hidden gems.

From picturesque parklands to glistening marinas to native gardens – every Sydney parkrun has a story. The scenery of the parkrun is just the beginning, because the true identity of parkrun lies with its people – the participants and volunteers that make it possible.

Join us on a journey to discover 5 of the best parkruns in Sydney – the St Peters parkrun, Wildflower parkrun, Curl Curl parkrun, Mosman parkrun and Willoughby parkrun.

Parkrun is not only a celebration of running, but of inclusivity and diversity – bringing individuals, families and communities together. You’ll love lacing up for this weekly 5km event that’s entirely free – free of pressure, free of obligation and free of cost – because the physical and mental health benefits of running should be accessible to everyone.

Of course, every parkrunner is chasing a different experience and striving for a unique goal. Whether you’re seeking a parkrun that’s flat, fast and friendly, a true challenge for your legs in a scenic setting, or simply to socialise and get closer to nature, there’s a Sydney parkrun for you.

St Peters parkrun: The first Sydney parkrun

About the St Peters parkrun & why you'll love it

The St Peters parkrun located in the Inner West of Sydney has been supporting Sydneysiders and parkrun tourists on their journey to live a fitter, healthier lifestyle since January 2012 as New South Wales' inaugural parkrun.

The people of St Peters parkrun first and foremost, are what make it an extraordinarily positive and vibrant experience. It’s here that friendships are formed and fitness goals – no matter how big or small - are achieved.

St Peters parkrun was founded by Paul Wilcock, who’s passion for not only parkrun, but for giving back to the community is inspirational. Alongside being the longest serving parkrun event director in Australia, he has volunteered more than 400 times.

The roots of St Peters parkrun grew from Paul’s personal journey – who started running as part of his fitness goal to lose weight. With a true appreciation of the positive benefits of running on his life, he aspired to bring that same joy to the Sydney community.

Paul reached out to parkrun, and within a few months the St Peters' parkrun had launched, with 64 participants attending the first event. Today it may host over 400 participants weekly, including both locals and runners from as far out as Penrith and Wollongong. They're happy to make the commute to St Peters parkrun – eager to get their weekly dose of this warm and welcoming atmosphere on the popular course Paul created.

For some, the St Peters parkrun is the foundation for cementing running or walking as their healthy habit, and for others it’s an integral part of their (half) marathon training. For Paul, running the St Peters parkrun course helped him maintain a healthy weight and build on his fitness, to the point where he was participating in endurance events like the Sydney Running Festival.

St Peters parkrun course

Running through Sydney park, the St Peters parkrun course has stunning, well-maintained parklands as its backdrop and offers a dog-friendly and pram-friendly environment. With an easily runnable, smooth concrete path underneath your feet, rejuvenating greenery around you and trees providing shade in sections – it’s accommodating for both parkrun first-timers and experienced parkrunners chasing a PB.

Volunteers have drawn on the concrete in chalk – both with arrows and directions to keep you physically on track, and with motivational slogans to keep you mentally on track. With multiple splits in the path leading in different directions, the guidance of volunteers directing in their high-vis is a whole-heartedly appreciated and welcome sight for runners.

The course kicks off and ends at the north west corner of Sydney park and consists of 2 loops – a larger and more challenging 3.7km loop giving you a running tour of the park, then a 1.3km loop that’s kinder on your calves – which at this point need the respite.

At first, the course is deceptively flat… then halfway through you can’t miss the massive hill that will put your hill training to the test. Don’t sweat it though! Soak in the smiling faces and encouragement of the volunteers and enjoy the climb (even if your legs don’t!), because it is well worth the challenge. You’ll be rewarded with breath-taking (if you aren’t out of breath already) views of the city. If you have a moment, it’s worth snapping a shot as you revel in your victory.

The variety is what makes this course all the more intriguing and rewarding. Once you've conquered the hill, it's not over yet, but it’s back onto a flatter, more forgiving slope from there.

For more information and a course map, check out the official St Peters parkrun course page.

St Peters parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips

It’s worth arriving 15 minutes early to St Peters parkrun to catch the pre-run briefing, group warm-up stretches and soak in the friendly, community vibe. Your body will thank you for getting in a few stretches before putting foot to pavement, particularly when you reach the hill.

If you’re arriving by train, Sydney park is directly across the road from St Peters train station. Parking lots around Sydney Park also make it easily accessible by car (with Barwon Park Road being the closest and Sydney Park Road another option). Of course, if you’re a local, walking is the best way to travel.

Post-run, take advantage of everything Sydney parkland has to offer, including wetlands which are home to native birdlife, playgrounds for the kids and picnic spots across the rolling hills for the whole family (including your furry running buddy).

When enjoying the St Peters parkrun itself, remember it’s on shared paths so keep left, please give way to other walkers and runners, and respect other visitors to Sydney park. 

For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official St Peters parkrun page.

Wildflower parkrun: Challenging & scenic Sydney parkrun

The Wildflower parkrun isn’t only where nature blossoms, but where community thrives. Runners of all ages lace up to experience the beauty and challenges of this course that’s cocooned among the native gardens – allowing you to mentally rejuvenate while physically building fitness.

This parkrun, held at the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, is honest to its name with vibrant native flowers along the course and the potential for spotting wallabies that call this untouched bushland their home. For walkers and runners seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s a must-run destination to soak in a fresh perspective and unwind – while giving your legs a real test.

Wildflower parkrun course

The Wildflower parkrun has the mood-boosting and invigorating setting of a trail run even though the path itself is paved, making it an option for runners that prefer a solid feel underfoot. However, some sections are narrow or less stable, so the course may not be a favourite for participants running with a pram. Please check with the organisers if it’s an option for you. Alternatively, for a pram-friendly experience it's worth checking out the other trails on offer in the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, like the Senses track which is more accessible.

Older kids are guaranteed to enjoy getting close to nature – and having them along for the run will hopefully help put a spring in your step to take on the challenges ahead. If you’re running solo, don’t worry! The friendly volunteers have your back with their endless enthusiasm and encouragement.

By no means is this out-and-back course easy. If you love to feel the burn, the Wildflower parkrun will put your calves to work on the epic hills – clocking in an elevation change of 121m.

The largest hill on the track welcomes you at the halfway point, with an 80m rise so be sure to hold some energy in reserve with this in mind. The course is winding, with a small loop at both the halfway point and at the end. Leave your headphones behind to truly soak in this astonishingly beautiful course among the bushland.

For more information and a course map, check out the official Wildflower parkrun course page.

Wildflower parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips

To protect the native wildlife and habitats, dogs aren’t permitted at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden so please leave your furry running buddy at home for this one. Curl Curl parkrun below provides a dog-friendly option.

For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Wildflower parkrun page.

Curl Curl Parkrun: Flat & scenic Sydney parkrun

About the Curl Curl parkrun & why you'll love it

Inspiration is running high at the Curl Curl parkrun that showcases that exercise can be fun, invigorating and social. It certainly doesn’t have to feel like a chore and in fact, it’s something you can look forward to - enjoying the benefits to your physical and mental health now and in the long run.

Affectionately called ‘Curly Wurly’ parkrun by its friendly regulars, Curl Curl parkrun is of course located in the beachside northern Sydney suburb of Curl Curl.

Curl Curl is praised as a haven for lovers of the outdoors and fitness enthusiasts, with the picturesque Curl Curl beach (just north of the famous Manly Beach), complete with golden sand and sapphire blue surf, not to mention the variety of sporting facilities including the soccer, netball, rugby and softball fields you’ll pass during the Curl Curl parkrun. 

The Curl Curl parkrun is popular – potentially hitting around the 300-participant mark or over in terms of weekly attendance. The Curl Curl parkrun is a true representation that the beauty of Curl Curl is also reflected in the beautiful nature of its locals and visitors – always ready to ‘give it a go’ while offering smiles freely and support readily.  

The Curl Curl parkrun isn’t on the beach itself, but does swing around Curl Curl lagoon that flows into the ocean. Once a site for landfill in the 1950s, the lagoon has since been transformed into an urban sanctuary for birdlife and recreational site to enjoy a walk – or run – in the park.

Curl Curl parkrun course

The Curl Curl parkrun has a little bit of everything to satisfy runners seeking a (mostly) flat yet scenic course. Being flat of course means it’s equally as inviting for an easy-going walk or jog, as it is in shedding seconds off your 5K as a fast, PB-friendly parkrun.

With the exception of sand, this course is complete with a variety of terrain underfoot – grass, paved concrete paths, softer trail surfaces and even a wooden bridge. Paved paths make up the majority of the course, but they can be relatively narrow when accommodating the potentially 300+ runners. This means the path can feel congested until the pack stretches out and runners flow into their personal stride. If you happen to bump shoulders with another runner, don’t sweat it because you’ll be met with a smile.

The course starts and finishes at the Frank Gray Oval (just outside the hockey/cricket change rooms). It runs in the direction of Curl Curl beach, under the cover of kind trees offering shade, then turns to head over the bridge crossing the enchanting lagoon. This is the perfect spot to take a moment to snap a mental (or real) picture and appreciate the rehabilitation this area has undergone – turning the landfill site at John Fisher park into a picturesque, family-friendly park for the community. 

Beyond the bridge, you’ll turn to pass fields for soccer, netball and rugby then circle around the softball field. You’ll be greeted by a gentle hill just beyond the 3km mark, cross the wooden bridge at the park’s centre then cruise back towards the finish line.

For more information and a course map, check out the official Curl Curl course page.

Curl Curl Parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips

Post-parkrun, you may be keen to take a dip! Although water quality is increasing at the lagoon, rehabilitation is a long process to recover from historical pollution. The Curl Curl lagoon isn’t recommended for swimming for safety reasons (either for you or your family – and that includes your dog).

On that note, take your swimwear to Curl Curl beach – one of Sydney’s top surf beaches - but be wary that it’s known for its impressive yet dangerous waves. Of course, if you choose to get in the ocean, always practise swim safety by swimming in between the flags, or stick to the family-friendly, saltwater rock pools at both the northern and southern end of the beach for little ones to explore and play.

In true parkrun tradition, Curl Curl parkrunners also enjoy catching up for a post-run coffee at a local cafe and everyone is welcome. 

For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Curl Curl parkrun page.

Mosman parkrun: Peaceful & empowering Sydney parkrun

About the Mosman parkrun & why you’ll love it

Mosman is among the suburbs on the lower north shore of Sydney, and is home to beautiful Balmoral beach, the iconic Taronga Zoo and dazzling harbourside restaurants - so if you’re a parkrun tourist there’s plenty of attractions in the area to make a day of it.

With virtually 5km of picturesque water views with the yacht-speckled marina, the Mosman parkrun is your slice of serenity on foot. It doesn’t reach the numbers of the more popular Sydney parkruns, but it doesn’t have to. The enthusiasm, support and encouragement of the 50 - 60 weekly participants plus volunteers makes it a shining example of the parkrun spirit.

Launched on the 19^th of October 2013 and cancelled shortly after due to council issues - the Mosman parkrun at Balmoral Beach was off to a rough start. However, the event was relaunched with a new course at Spit West, and it's been running strong ever since.

Kathryn Hodgkinson was the founding event director/run director of Mosman parkrun - who was inspired to share her parkrun passion after running the Curl Curl parkrun. It didn't take long - after a few events at Curl Curl, she was hooked.

Parkrunner, volunteer and co-event director Simon Mackley alongside Mary Botto have also been an integral part of the Mosman parkrun's success. Simon's parkrun enthusiasm was ignited after crushing his 5km PB at the very first St Peters' parkrun.

The Mosman parkrun is a celebration of individuality and diversity. Earlier this year on the 18^th of February 2023, Mosman parkrunners wore rainbow colours to broadcast their support and bring attention to WorldPride. This Pride-themed run helped raise awareness of the difficulty LGBTIQ+ people endure in sports participation – aiming to break down barriers to ensure every person feels safe, welcome and empowered to enjoy physical activity

The WorldPride event was new to the southern hemisphere, and the Mosman parkrun community embraced it whole-heartedly with tutus of every colour, knee-high rainbow socks and glowing smiles in every stride. The Mosman parkrun nurtures this positive, inclusive environment all year round. 

Mosman parkrun course

Starting and ending at Spit West Reserve near Spit Bridge, the Mosman parkrun offers an awe-inspiring 3 loop course that mostly runs along the edge of the water at a calming area of Sydney Harbour.

Even when your legs feel like lead, it’s a majestic location. A combination of grass, paved paths and a gentle hill with a view add variety underfoot.

Of course, the benefit of a lapping course is that you're constantly inspired by runners ahead of you or behind you, smiling as they run past sharing their encouragement and support.

The Mosman parkrun kicks off on the open, grass reserve then follows the path, passing the rowing club and heading towards Pearl Bay Avenue. This is the turnaround point, where you run back towards Spit Marina, go around the playground and continue on past the starting line for another loop, or head right to the finish if it’s your final lap.  

For more information and a course map, check out the official Mosman parkrun course page.

Mosman parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips

Mosman parkrunners love catching up at a local cafe to connect and support local businesses post-run. Join them for a coffee break and conversation before exploring what Mosman has to offer - including the tranquil Balmoral Beach.

As the parkrun is on shared paths, be wary of other pedestrians. If you bring your furry buddy along for the run, please ensure they’re on a short leash to create a safe experience for you, your dog and other participants.

For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Mosman parkrun page.

Willoughby parkrun: Happy & culturally vibrant Sydney parkrun

About the Willoughby parkrun & why you'll love it

The Willoughby parkrun is evidence that both our similarities and differences can unite us. Although there’s literal ups and downs at the Willoughby parkrun with its undulating paths which you’ll learn to love, the atmosphere is consistently friendly and mood-boosting – with over 200 smiling faces ready to welcome you every Saturday morning. In fact, a recent survey suggested that Willoughby was among the happiest Sydney suburbs - and yes, the happiness is infectious.

The Willoughby parkrun embraces diversity – being both multi-cultural and multi-generational. It has played an integral role in strengthening bonds from individuals and families to the community, with people from across the world having found their home in Willoughby council.

From the little runner-in-training of the family riding in a pram, to seniors seeking a socially and emotionally nourishing experience, the Willoughby parkrun is for everyone, and everyone is celebrated for their participation.

Children, parents and grandparents all flock to the volunteer-run and family-friendly Willoughby parkrun to embrace the joy of movement and connect with the community. For those unable to participate, getting your parkrun fix by volunteering can be just as rewarding to support participants and socialise with inspiring individuals.

Even people that don’t consider themselves as ‘natural runners’ will find their footing within this diverse community. In fact, although there’s serious runners in the pack, the vibe is predominantly relaxed, so anyone seeking a more leisurely stroll nestled among the trees will feel at home.

The event director of Willoughby parkrun, Grant Berthold's parkrun journey began at Bushy Park - the location of the very first parkrun in the United Kingdom. After he arrived home in Australia, he attended the popular St Peters parkrun. Down the track, he was enlightened by the small, family-friendly atmosphere of the Mosman parkrun, where he became run director in 2017. Since its launch in 2016, he's been bringing the best of both parkruns to the Willoughby parkrun with its culturally rich and community-oriented vibe.

Willoughby parkrun course

Located in Artarmon on Sydney's lower North Shore, the Willoughby parkrun begins at the peaceful Artarmon Reserve. Considering the short distance from the heart of Sydney city, it's a surprisingly tranquil spot to get closer to nature. Here, skyscrapers are traded in for leafy trees and lush greenery.

The Willoughby parkrun weaves through the picturesque parklands and native bushland on hard paths, broken up by a quick pass under the freeway. It's a must-run for those wanting to tie in natural scenery with their sweat session or rejuvenating, easy-going walk. The memorable landmark on the course is the Aboriginal artwork tunnel - adding a culturally vibrant setting to your running journey.

Although the course isn’t pancake-flat, it’s not daunting in the way a truly hilly parkrun like the Wildflower parkrun can be. The Willoughby parkrun does have sections of grass that can be muddy after a good rain – but otherwise it’s smooth sailing (or running!). Some sections of path are narrow, meaning running in a single file is appreciated, as is giving way to other parkrunners and park users.

For more information and a course map, check out the official Willoughby course page.

Willoughby parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips

The Artarmon Reserve is home to fantastic playgrounds and cycling paths to create an action-packed day for the kids, and shady spots for you to unwind and recover after your run. Alongside being a sanctuary for native flora and fauna, it can be a refuge for you to enjoy the outdoors without having to travel far from Sydney city.

Consider soaking in the love of coffee shared by Willoughby's friendly parkrun community by joining them for a post-parkrun meet up at a local cafe.

For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Willoughby parkrun page.

Is your favourite Sydney parkrun missing from the list? We’d love to hear about it! Contact Sportitude Running and let us know why it’s the best Sydney parkrun for you.

Happy running, and we’ll see you at parkrun!

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