Paluma Ultra
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About the race
The Paluma Ultra is a 52 km ultramarathon trail run through the World Heritage listed Wet Tropics of Paluma Range National Park. The point-to-point course starts at Gumburu Environmental Education Centre and finishes at Paluma Village Green, and it uses mostly single trail, dirt roads and old logging trails with only 492 metres of bitumen. The route passes rainforest, waterfalls and creek crossings, then descends into dry eucalypt country and open areas before climbing back into rainforest. The course is described in eight sections, including rainforest single trail, old tin mining trails with technical creek crossings, a steep climb to Mt Spec, a 4WD section on Benham's Track and a final loop through Paluma Village.
Two aid stations and bag-drop locations are at 20 km (Paluma Dam Loop) and 38 km (Chicks Road turnoff). Both stations provide first aid, water and electrolytes, fresh fruit, lollies, chocolate, small soft drinks and salted chips. Mandatory equipment requires runners to be self sufficient and includes hydration vest, adequate water and nutrition, two compression bandages, emergency blanket, whistle, headlight, mobile phone with GPX downloaded, paper maps and a quality rain jacket if advised. Minimum age is 18 years on race day.
Entry fees listed are $145 general and $165 late. Available inclusions: timing chip, necksock, aid stations, drop bag service, medical support, post-race refreshments and photography. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
