Puffing Billy Run

The Puffing Billy Run, officially known as the Puffing Billy Running Festival, is one of Australia’s most unique running events. Held in the scenic Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne, runners take on the challenge of racing against the historic Puffing Billy steam train through forests, rolling hills, railway crossings, and picturesque mountain landscapes. The festival combines a community running event with a beloved Victorian heritage attraction, creating an experience unlike a traditional road race. Proceeds from the event help support restoration and preservation projects for the historic Puffing Billy Railway.

The signature event is the famous 13.5 km Classic, where participants race from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park while two century-old steam locomotives travel alongside portions of the course. The weekend also includes a 5 km Family Fun Run and a Kids Dash, making it accessible to runners of all ages and abilities. The event village is centered around Emerald Lake Park and the Puffing Billy Railway’s Lakeside precinct.

Organizer
SingleTrack Events
Events
5K Β· OTH
Next race date
Sep 12, 2026 ( β€” )
Puffing Billy Run
Location
Belgrave, Dandenong Ranges, Australia
-37.91125, 145.35714

Race Events

2026 5 km Family Fun Run
5K
2026 5 km Family Fun Run
Sep 12, 2026
2026 13.5 km Classic
OTH
2026 13.5 km Classic
Sep 13, 2026

Reviews
Runner Intel
See what runners say about Puffing Billy Run.
Unlock race reviews, ratings, course notes, and planning tips from the hashiRun community.
Log in to see race reviews
Leave a review
Quick ratings. Big help for future runners.

Ratings
1 (worst) to 5 (best) Β· N/A
⭐️ Overall Experience *
✍🏻 Registration
πŸ”Ÿ Expo/Bib Pickup
🚧 Course Signage
πŸ§ƒ Aid Stations
🫢 Volunteers
πŸ“£ Crowd Support
🏁 Post-Race
πŸ… Swag / Medal
πŸ’° Value for Money

Proud Member of MyRun.ID