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Trail lovers of NSW, mark your cals: the Blue Mountains is about to welcome its most spectacularly scenic race yet. On Sunday, April 12 2026, the inaugural Grand Cliff Top Race will see runners and walkers tackle 17.5 kilometres of trail along the breathtaking Grand Cliff Top Walk, stretching from Wentworth Falls to Katoomba. It’s the first the iconic escarpment trail will host a fully organised race – and based on what we know of those views, it’s set to earn its place alongside the most exciting sporting events in NSW this year.
Designed by Blue Mountains Tourism (BMT) to showcase the region, the event invites participants from across NSW to immerse themselves in ancient sandstone cliffs, shaded bush trails, and sweeping vistas over the Jamison Valley. The course kicks off at Charles Darwin Walk in Wentworth Falls and winds its way along the cliff line, concluding at the official end of the walk at Katoomba’s Scenic World.
Compared to a lot of epic sporting events popping up in beautiful remote spots around the state, this one is pretty darn accessible. Competitors can hop on the Blue Mountains Line train from Syd to Wentworth Falls and finish in Katoomba without needing a car – a big bonus for sustainability-conscious athletes, and those keen to sink a few Mountain Culture beers post-race (it would sort of be rude not to).
Staggered wave starts, beginner-friendly terrain, and a generous six-hour cut-off will ensure the race is open to walkers as well as runners, and aid stations at Gordon Falls will provide snacks and drinks along the way.
And for the slow-paced among us, we’ve got more good news. While the fastest male, female, and non-binary finishers will score some pretty solid awards from Scenic World, La Sportiva, and Summit Gear, more than 40 local business prizes will be drawn randomly across the entire field – meaning everyone has a chance to walk away with something special. Every finisher will also receive a commemorative race memento and a Blue Mountains Explorer Bus pass, perfect for turning the race into a weekend escape supporting local cafes, accommodation, shops and (importantly for post-race recovery) bathhouses.
“This event is about connecting people to place,” says BMT General Manager Lou Clifton. “It’s an opportunity to experience one of NSW’s most spectacular escarpment walks while directly contributing to the sustainable future of the Blue Mountains visitor economy. Every entry gives back.”
Participant numbers are capped to protect the fragile environment, so early registration is recommended. Organised as a not-for-profit initiative, all surplus revenue will go back into promoting and protecting the region’s World Heritage values.
Keen? Us too. For details and to secure your spot, visit Race Roster.
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