A new trail running event will take over the bushland near Hobart’s CBD on the Winter Solstice, sending runners and hikers out by headtorch through native bush with views of the city’s twinkling lights below.
Run the Dark: Knockers Solstice Trail Run will be held on Sunday, June 21 from around 4:15pm, starting from the lookout near the Forest Road carpark at Knocklofty.
The event offers 11km, 6km and 4km courses and is designed to be as social and accessible as it is competitive, with participants able to hike any of the three distances.
Courses feature a mix of wide, smooth fire trail and well-built single track, with views of Kunanyi, the Derwent River and the night lights of Hobart.
Organiser say runners and hikers can expect to spot wallabies, bandicoots and owls coming out to feed as darkness falls.
Post-run festivities include fire pits, ambient red lighting and wood-fired pizzas.
In the spirit of Hobart’s Paint the Town Red theme, participants are encouraged to bring red lights and wear one on the back of their head.
Dress-ups are also welcome.
The event is the first in the 2026 Kunanyi Trail Series, delivered by the same team behind the Kunanyi Mountain Run and DIVERGE Skyruns.
Organisers are also working with Hobart’s Her Trails Run Club, which encourages more women to feel confident getting out on trails during Tasmania’s darker winter months.
Registrations are open until June 18.
