Why the Eastern Dorrigo Plateau and Bindarri National Park Are a Trail Runner’s Dream

Every year, runners take to the wild terrain of Eastern Dorrigo with its winding mountainous trails, untamed subtropical rainforests, and creeks to take in the pure freedom of the outdoors here. - Photo credits Keelan Birch.

Tucked between escarpment and coast, the Eastern Dorrigo Plateau and Bindarri National Park offer something increasingly rare in today’s running world: wild, uncrowded, and deeply immersive terrain that is both challenging and restorative.

What really sets this area apart is its diversity. Within a relatively compact region, runners can move from steep rainforest climbs and technical singletrack to rolling fire trails and open ridgelines. It’s terrain that keeps you engaged—there’s very little “autopilot running” here. Every step demands attention, balance, and awareness, turning even a short run into something more like an adventure.

Perched above the coast, the Eastern Dorrigo Plateau offers a unique mix of elevation and exposure. Early morning runs often begin in cool mountain air, sometimes with mist hanging low across the valleys. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself stopping mid-run—not from fatigue, but because the landscape pulls your attention.

Then there’s the rainforest. Bindarri National Park is home to dense, ancient forest that feels far removed from everyday. Running here is a full sensory experience: the smell of damp earth, the sound of creeks moving through the landscape, and the constant presence of birdlife. Trails wind through shaded gullies and alongside clear streams, offering both a physical challenge and a mental reset that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Expect exhilarating moments where you can find waterfalls tumbling off the cliffs encircled by pristine subtropical rainforests in wild Eastern Dorrigo, a true trailrunner's dream! - Photo credits Keelan Birch.

Events like Rumble in the Jungle capture the essence of what makes this region so special. It’s more than just a race—it’s an experience that showcases the best of the terrain, from demanding climbs to flowing descents through lush forest. It’s tough, but rewarding, and reflects the spirit of the local trail running community: supportive, inclusive, and deeply connected to the environment.

These kinds of events do more than bring people together—they introduce runners to trails they may never have discovered otherwise. For many, a single visit becomes the start of an ongoing connection with the area.

Another strength of the Eastern Dorrigo Plateau and Bindarri region is its accessibility. Despite its remote feel, it’s still within easy reach of the coast. The ability to move from beach to mountain in a short time creates unique opportunities for both training and exploration.

Importantly, the trails here retain a strong sense of authenticity. They haven’t been overdeveloped or overly polished. There’s a rawness that appeals to runners looking for something real—terrain that challenges both body and mind, and builds resilience along the way.

Raw, real, and unrivalled - that's what every trailrunner looks for in terrain to explore and challenge body and mind at Eastern Dorrigo and the Bindarri National Park. - Photo credits Keelan Birch.

Ultimately, what makes this area such an incredible place to run isn’t just the trails—it’s how the experience stays with you. Whether it’s the quiet of the rainforest, the satisfaction of a tough climb, or the camaraderie of a shared event, there’s something here that lingers long after the run is finished.

Some highlight runs in the area include:

• Bangalore Falls in Bindarri National Park

• Battery Falls via Timmsvale Road

• Bushmans Range Road towards Georges Goldmine

• Langleys Road in Bindarri National Park

Keelan Birch is a passionate trail runner and community builder based in the Orara Valley, where he spends much of his time exploring the local forests, fire trails and rugged backcountry on foot. Through his involvement with Coffs Trail Runners, he has helped foster a welcoming and adventurous trail running community, encouraging runners of all abilities to get off-road and experience the incredible landscapes in the Coffs Harbour Hinterland.