Where to find the best parkrun near you in Perth

More than 1,500 runners will line up at Perth's parkruns this Saturday, according to recent event data from the parkrun Australia website. For a city that prizes its outdoor lifestyle, the free, timed 5-kilometre runs have become a weekend ritual for everyone from competitive club athletes to parents pushing prams.

The appeal of parkrun has only grown since the pandemic pushed more West Australians outdoors. With winter temperatures in the mid-teens and minimal rain expected this weekend, there is no better time to lace up. But with 15 official parkrun events across the Perth metro area, choosing the right one can be daunting.

Best for scenery: Kings Park & John Forrest

Kings Park parkrun, which starts near the Fraser Avenue lookout, offers runners panoramic views of the Swan River and the city skyline. The course is a two-loop route on sealed paths past the State War Memorial and through the Western Australian Botanic Garden. More than 300 people typically register each Saturday, according to the parkrun website. The 5km trail is undulating, with a gentle climb that will test your legs.

Further east, John Forrest National Park parkrun is the oldest in Western Australia, having launched in 2014. The course runs through jarrah and marri forest along the old railway line, passing the Swan View Tunnel. It is entirely on gravel, so trail shoes are recommended, especially after rain. The parkrun Australia website lists the event as one of the most popular in the region for its natural beauty and birdlife.

Best for speed: Claisebrook Cove & Canning River

If you are chasing a personal best, head to Claisebrook Cove in East Perth. The flat, out-and-back course follows the Swan River foreshore past the Matagarup Bridge and the WACA Ground. It is one of the flattest courses in the city, which explains why it regularly produces the fastest times. The parkrun website shows that the course record for men is under 15 minutes, and the women's record is just over 17 minutes.

Canning River parkrun in Riverton is another quick option. The route hugs the riverbank and passes through Shelley foreshore. It is largely flat and paved, making it ideal for runners who want to avoid hills. The event regularly attracts more than 200 participants, according to the parkrun website.

Best for community: Lake Claremont & Burswood Peninsula

Lake Claremont parkrun is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong volunteer base. The course loops around the lake, past paperbark trees and wetland bird hides. It is a single loop, which means you never double back, and the surface is a mix of gravel and grass. The event's Facebook page notes that the average turnout is around 150 runners, with a high proportion of first-timers and tourists.

Burswood Peninsula parkrun offers stunning views of the Swan River and the Crown Perth complex. The course is flat and fast, with a long straight along the river. It is also one of the most accessible events, with ample parking at the Burswood Park car park. The parkrun website lists the event as having the highest average attendance in the Perth metro area since its launch.

For those who want to combine their run with a swim, the Indian Ocean is a short drive from most of these events. Several parkrun groups organise post-run coffee at local cafes, such as the Kiosk at Kings Park or the Boatshed Restaurant at Crawley. The parkrun Australia website also reminds participants that all events start at 8am sharp, and you must register online once to receive a personal barcode.

Before you start any new exercise program, consult a local medical professional. It is also advisable to arrive at least 10 minutes early for the pre-run briefing, where volunteer coordinators explain the course and any hazards. The parkrun Australia website provides full details on each event, including course maps and parking information.