Run the Rock returns to Hanging Rock on Saturday 13 March 2027 — and the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network is proud to be part of it as a charity partner of the event.
Organised by Sole Motive, Run the Rock takes in trails, forest paths and quiet sealed roads, including a lap at the base of one of Australia’s most recognisable landmarks. There are four distances to choose from, so whether you are chasing a personal best over 22km or walking your first 5km, there is a start line for you.
Run for wildlife
As a charity partner we have our own fundraising page for Run the Rock 2027. Every dollar raised there comes straight to the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network and goes towards the rescue, rehabilitation and care of native wildlife across our region — the same wildlife you will be running past on the day.
You can donate directly, or set up your own fundraiser and ask your friends and family to back your run. It costs nothing extra to take part, and it turns race day into something that makes a real difference for local wildlife.
Race day schedule
| Distance | Start time |
|---|---|
| Half Marathon (22K) | 8:15 am |
| Kids Dash (2K) | 8:45 am |
| 13.5K | 9:25 am |
| 5K | 10:00 am |
The event village and race bib collection open at 7:00 am, so arrive early to collect your bib and look around before the first start.
Entry fees
Entries are managed by Sole Motive through RaceRoster. Early bird pricing is available at the time of writing:
- Half Marathon (22K) — $98
- 13.5K — $78
- 5K — $52
- Kids Dash (2K) — $30
These prices are set by the event organiser, so please check the registration page for current pricing and close-off dates. Race entry fees are paid to Sole Motive and are separate from any donation you make to the Wildlife Network.
The event village
Cross the finish line and settle in for the morning. The event village has live music, food and drink trucks, a coffee cart and giant games for kids, with the BBQ run by the Gisborne Rotary Club. There is also a photo wall — share your day with #RunTheRock2027.
Getting there and parking
- The race is based at Hanging Rock Reserve, Woodend VIC — about an hour from Melbourne via the Calder Freeway.
- There is no general access through the main gate. Participants must enter via Gate 9 on Colwells Road.
- Accessible parking is available through the main gate on South Rock Road.
- Parking is free and included with your entry.
- Hanging Rock is part of a national park, so dogs are not permitted on the course or in the event village at any time.
Summit walk add-on
Extend your morning with a park ranger guided walk to the Hanging Rock summit. The 1.8km, 75 minute Grade 3 hike includes steep sections, steps and uneven terrain, and children under 5 cannot take part. It departs at 11:00 am from the Visit Macedon Ranges Marquee in the event village.
- Adult — $20
- Child (5–16 years) — $18
- Family (2 adults + 2 children) — $54
- Additional child — $9
All of that contribution goes directly to the care of Hanging Rock, including conservation, revegetation and ongoing maintenance of the reserve.
Questions?
For entries, course and race day enquiries, contact Sole Motive at [email protected]. For anything about fundraising for the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network, email us at [email protected].