36km runners are in for a wide variety of terrain and trails as you journey from the calm shores of Lake Macquarie over to the rugged coastline and back again.

After exiting Raffertys Resort and winding through Murrays Beach, you will emerge back on the lake shore for some flat easy running. Turning right and up the fire trail, you will soon cross Murrays Beach Rd and follow the fire trail up to the footbridge. Once over the highway you will soon reach the first aid station.

Following fire trail towards the ocean, you will be rewarded with views in both directions along spectacular coastline. Dropping down next to the ocean, along some rocky trails and across a small creek – you’ll keep heading south and the ocean views continue. Before long you’ll head out onto the rock platform south of the infamous Shark Hole for an exhilarating run along the edge as the waves crash alongside. A small exit trail up off the rock platform leads you to the 36km/22km split point.

Runners continue south along Catherine Hill Bay Beach and under the impressive historic jetty. Around the next headland and across Moonee Beach for a bit more sand. Then the climb up the fire trail starts to really put the pressure on, hopefully with the help of a cool ocean breeze. At the top you’ll reach the second aid station. From here turn left, check for whales at Snapper Point, and head down to the clear waters of Frazer Beach.

Follow the roads away from Frazer Beach and back up the hill and through the aid station for a second time, before turning left and retracing your steps back to Moonee Beach. Cross the headland via the ‘upper’ path this time, back under the jetty and along the beach, fingers crossed the tide is on your side so the sand is hardpacked!

After crossing the beach back to the split point, head up the fire trail – keep an eye on course markings as numerous 4WD tracks enter from each side. Check out the disused bunkers at the top of the hill, then drop down to the aid station on Mine Camp Rd.

The finish is near but some challenges still await. If you still have some energy you can up the pace on this next stretch of nice wide fire trail. Before long you’ll hit a creek crossing and a short steep climb (most will walk this!) before the trail flattens and the running starts again. Popping out onto the old highway you hit the first aid station for the second time.  Cross back over the new highway on the footbridge, and follow the trails back to Raffertys Resort and your finish line on the shores of Lake Macquarie!