Melbourne is a runner’s paradise, offering everything from inner-city gravel tracks to challenging mountain climbs. Whether you are training for the Melbourne Marathon or just looking for a scenic weekend jog, these six iconic routes are the best the city has to offer.

The Tan Track (Royal Botanic Gardens)

As Melbourne‘s most famous running track, The Tan is a rite of passage for local athletes. The 3.827km loop circles the Royal Botanical Gardens and features a mix of gravel and bitumen.

• The Highlight: The “Anderson Street Hill”—a gruelling 600-meter incline that tests your grit.
• Distance: 3.8km loop.
• Best for: Hill sprints, interval training, and celebrity spotting.

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Albert Park Lake (South Melbourne)

Located just south of the CBD, Albert Park Lake offers a flat, fast 4.8km loop. It’s the home of the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, but for the rest of the year, it belongs to runners.

• The Highlight: Stunning panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline reflecting off the water.
• Distance: 4.8km loop.
• Best for: PB (Personal Best) attempts and flat long runs.

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Princes Park (Carlton)

Situated in the heart of Carlton, Princes Park is a favorite for those who prefer a softer surface. The 3.2km gravel track loops around the Carlton Football Club (Ikon Park) and sprawling green ovals.

• The Highlight: The proximity to Sydney Road and Lygon Street for a post-run coffee.
• Distance: 3.2km loop.
• Best for: Social running and those looking for a joint-friendly surface.

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The Main Yarra Trail / Capital City Trail

Following the winding Yarra River, this trail offers endless kilometers of path. You can run southeast toward Richmond or northwest toward Abbotsford, passing the MCG and the Rod Laver Arena along the way.

• The Highlight: A car-free experience through Melbourne’s sporting precinct.
• Distance: Variable (up to 30km+).
• Best for: Sunday long runs and marathon prep.

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Sandridge Rail Trail (Port Melbourne)

This “CBD-to-Beach” route starts near the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Following the old light rail line for 3km, it delivers you directly to the Port Melbourne foreshore, where you can continue along the Bay Trail.

• The Highlight: Running toward the ocean breeze on a hot summer day.
• Distance: 3km (one way) plus beach paths.
• Best for: Runners who want to end their session by the water.

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The 1000 Steps (Kokoda Memorial Walk)

Located 40km east of the city in the Dandenong Ranges, this is Melbourne’s ultimate fitness test. It’s a steep, 3km stair climb through lush rainforest that pays tribute to Australian soldiers.

• Best for: High-intensity vertical training and hiking.
• The Highlight: The immense sense of accomplishment at the summit.
• Distance: 3km return (steep incline).

FAQ’s

Q: Where is the best place to run in Melbourne for beginners?
A: Princes Park in Carlton and Albert Park Lake are ideal for beginners. Both are almost entirely flat, feature wide paths, and offer clear distance markers to help you track your progress.

Q: Is “The Tan” running track lit at night?
A: Yes, the Tan Track is well-lit at night, making it one of the safest and most popular spots for evening running in Melbourne.

Q: Which Melbourne running tracks have a soft surface?
A: If you want to avoid concrete, The Tan and Princes Park are your best options. Both feature crushed gravel tracks which provide better shock absorption for your knees compared to bitumen.

Q: Are there water fountains available on these routes?
A: Most major Melbourne tracks, including Albert Park, The Tan, and the Capital City Trail, have frequent public water fountains and “hydration stations” located along the paths.

Q: What is the steepest run in Melbourne?
A: The 1000 Steps (Kokoda Memorial Walk) in the Dandenong Ranges is widely considered the most challenging vertical run/climb in the Melbourne area, followed by the Anderson Street hill on the Tan.