The Hounslow Classic is a jaw-dropping trail race set among the cliffs and canyons of the Blue Mountains at Blackheath. With serious vertical, exposed clifftop singletrack and some of the most dramatic scenery in New South Wales, it's earned a cult following among trail runners chasing a genuine mountain challenge close to Sydney.
The headline Hounslow Marathon (42km) follows the spectacular cliff-top trail between Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout, dives through the ancient Grand Canyon track, then heads out and back to the Pinnacles via Perrys Lookdown and Lockleys Pylon. Prefer something shorter? The 17km covers the stunning Govetts Leap-to-Grand-Canyon section. There's also a 1500m Kids' Race for the little ones.
This is technical, climb-heavy trail running, so train your legs for steep ups and downs and respect the mandatory gear. Spring in the upper Blue Mountains can be cold and changeable, even snowy, so come prepared. Entries open in January and the field is capped, so don't dawdle. Blackheath is a charming base with great cafes and pubs for the post-race recovery, and an easy train or drive from Sydney.
