A runner’s guide to the Margaret River region

A land of fairy tale beauty and contrasts, WA’s Margaret River region is a runner’s dream. So set the alarm to take advantage of the fresh morning, lace up your trainers, and hit the track.

Keen to dive deep on more outdoors-y content? Check out 10 of the greatest walks in South West WA; cyclists and mountain bikers should get stuck into A two-wheeled guide to the South West; and water babies will love A swimmer’s guide to the South West.

Busselton-Dunsborough shoreline

Busselton Foreshore. Image by Photo Elements.

Runners after a paved path, head here! This long stretch of coast is perfect for a flat run alongside the Geographe Bay water. If you’re a long-distance runner, you could even go all the way to Dunsborough along the foot path from Busselton Jetty to Dunsborough’s town centre – perfect for staying for a bite to eat, people watch, or a dip in the bay after all that exertion.

Meelup Reserve Trail

The Meelup Reserve Trail is a coastal trot that’s also a feast for the eyes. Starting in picturesque Old Dunsborough, head up along the craggy path through bushland and wildflowers, with views of secluded white beaches and Point Piquet. The trail finishes at Eagle Bay, but you have the option to continue through to Bunker Bay.

Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock

Mighty cliffs, birds eye views of fierce ocean, bathing in sunlight, fishermen, birds, and geological glory: could this bush run near Yallingup get any more majestic? Meet at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to get started on the 3.5km trail (7km round trip).

Views of Sugarloaf Rock. Image by Photo Elements.

Rotary Park

Just a step away from the centre of town, Rotary Park in Margaret River has plenty of options for runners, hikers, and walkers. While many of the other trails in this article are focused on oceanside scenery, the tracks at Rotary Park are all about countryside treasures like bubbly streams and mossy trees. On Saturdays, feel free to join the 5km park run at 8am for all ages and abilities.

Gnarabup to Margaret River Mouth

The first sunlight peeks over the hills thick with vegetation, sky awash with pastel hues, waves gently crashing onto the shore, as you take in a deep lungful of air fresh off the ocean. What a way to celebrate the morning. Run north (maybe even tackle a sand run) to surf mecca Prevelly, and on to the river mouth. Grab yourself a coffee afterwards back at White Elephant Café or a paddle in the lagoon-like bay.

Along Prevelly Beach. Image by Photo Elements.

Boranup Forest

Boranup is where magic happens. It’s a serene forest oasis tucked away from modern life, with the tall trees stretching to the sky above, dappled sunlight peeking through, and wide gravel roads to traverse. There are two trails: the easy 4.8km Boranup Davies Road Loop, or the moderate 8.7km Boranup Point Road Loop.

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