Run Melbourne 2025: The Best Places to Train for Your Marathon Goals

So, you’ve signed up for a marathon in 2025. First of all—congrats, legend! Whether you’re aiming for your first 10K, smashing a half, or going all-in for the full 42.2 km glory, Melbourne is hands-down one of the best cities to get race-ready. With stunning scenery, world-class running tracks, and more brunch spots than you can shake a protein ball at, training for a marathon in Melbourne can be as fun as race day itself (well, almost).

To help you smash your PB and enjoy the journey, we’ve rounded up the best places to train for your marathon around Melbourne. Whether you’re looking for long flat routes, hilly challenges, or scenic distractions to keep your legs moving, we’ve got you covered.

1. The Tan Track – Melbourne’s Iconic Loop

Ah, The Tan. It’s basically the spiritual home of Melbourne runners. This 3.8km loop around the Royal Botanic Gardens is a rite of passage for any local runner. With city skyline views, beautiful gardens, and that infamous Anderson Street hill (your quads will remember it), it’s a versatile and vibrant place to run.

Why we love it for marathon training:

• Perfect for intervals or tempo runs

• You’ll never run alone—there’s always someone to chase (or be chased by)

• Lit up at night and safe for early-morning or evening sessions

Pro tip: Do a few repeats of Anderson Street hill for some sneaky strength training.

2. Yarra Trails – Nature Meets the City

Want to feel like you're in the bush without leaving the city? The Yarra Trails stretch from Richmond all the way out past Heidelberg, hugging the river and offering a mix of gravel paths, boardwalks, and single track.

Why it’s a winner:

• Soft terrain gives your joints a break

• Shady trees and peaceful vibes

• Easy to extend or shorten depending on your training plan

Pro tip: Park at Fairfield Boathouse and head out towards Burke Road Billabong for a magical morning long run.

3. Albert Park Lake – Flat and Fast

If you’re chasing speed and consistency, Albert Park is your go-to. The 5K loop around the lake is pancake-flat and perfect for tempo runs, time trials, or race-pace sessions.

Why it’s great:

• Plenty of space and clear paths

• Public toilets, water fountains, and parking

• Bonus: spot the swans and catch an epic sunset

Pro tip: Time your run with sunrise for maximum ‘main character’ energy.

4. Princes Park – The Underrated Gem

Often overshadowed by The Tan, Princes Park is a gem for northside runners. The 3.2km outer loop is flat, wide, and well-lit, making it perfect for evening runs or building your base.

Why we rate it:

• Less crowded than The Tan but just as convenient

• Dog-friendly, if your furry mate is tagging along

• Great for mid-week mileage building

Pro tip: Mix it up with some strides on the adjacent oval after your easy runs.

5. Beach Road – Long Run Heaven

Marathon training = long runs. And for that, Beach Road is king. Starting from Port Melbourne and stretching all the way to Mordialloc (and beyond), this coastal route is a dream.

Why it’s unbeatable for long runs:

• Stunning ocean views

• Consistent footpath/bike path for uninterrupted miles

• Cafes galore for your post-run coffee hit

Pro tip: Hop on a train to Mordi and run back into the city for a mentally satisfying point-to-point long run.

6. The Maribyrnong River Trail – Westside Wonder

Westside runners, we see you! The Maribyrnong River Trail offers a mix of undulating paths, river views, and a quieter vibe than its Yarra cousin.

Why it deserves more love:

• Rolling hills make for a great strength builder

• Scenic and peaceful

• Easy access from Footscray, Essendon, and surrounds

Pro tip: Start at Pipemakers Park and head north for a surprisingly scenic Saturday session.

7. Darebin Creek Trail – Inner North Favourite

This lesser-known path weaves its way through Preston, Ivanhoe, and Bundoora. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful long run with a mix of surfaces and terrain.

Why it rocks:

• Quiet and green

• Great for zoning out on long runs

• Links with the Main Yarra Trail for mega mileage days

Pro tip: There’s not much water or toilets along the way, so plan accordingly.

Bonus: Treadmill Days & Indoor Options

Look, Melbourne weather can be a bit moody. When it’s horizontal rain or 38 degrees, it’s okay to retreat indoors. Gyms like Virgin Active, Fitness First, and community rec centres all have decent treadmills for those days when the elements aren’t cooperating.

Pro tip: Use treadmill sessions for hill repeats or intervals where you control the incline/speed.

Run Melbourne 2025: Get Race-Ready with the Best of the City

No matter where you live in Melbourne, there’s a top-notch training route just around the corner. The key to marathon prep is consistency, variety, and—let’s be honest—a bit of fun. Mix up your routes, explore new trails, and don’t forget to fuel up with a solid post-run coffee and smashed avo.

Melbourne in 2025 is shaping up to be a runner’s paradise. With its thriving run culture, scenic routes, and epic community vibes, you’ve got every reason to lace up, hit the pavement, and chase that finish line.

See you at the start line. Let’s #RunMelbourne2025!

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