About us

Dandenongs Trail Runners (DTR) was founded in 2012 when a few runners realised that it would be fun to enjoy the trails of the Dandenong Ranges in each others company. The founding group included Commonwealth Games marathon runner Peter Mitchell.

After consultation with the DTR community, DTR was incorporated as a recreational running club in 2023.

Our values

Fun

Enjoy runs that showcase the best of the Dandenongs, featuring exciting single trails, muddy adventures, the sounds of lyrebirds, and the joy of sharing laughs with friends.

Friendship

Forge personal connections, participate in social gatherings, and catch up over coffee.

Fitness

Push your limits with organised events and join our challenging Sunday and Thursday runs.

A community of trail-loving runners

DTR has grown to become a large community of trail runners. We are a home for runners of varying abilities, but one thing unites us all: we are very happy to walk up the hills!

Every week, we offer run options of different distances and speeds to cater for all abilities. Whether you are training for a specific event or you’re just looking for a weekly run with friends, we welcome you.

All our runs are based in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. There are different trails on offer each week, and all runs are led by run leaders, so you’ll never be bored – or lost!

Sunday mornings

We start at 7 am on Sundays. This is the perfect time to beat the crowds and the heat, and see stunning sunrises.

Thursday mornings

We start at 9:10 – this is perfect for people who want to try trail running mid-week.

Non-competitive

We run weekly to have fun, stay in shape, and enjoy the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. Whether you’re a beginner, you’re training for a big race, or you’re a seasoned top-3 finisher, come run with us.

Trail running

Trail running is much more of a whole-body experience as you go up and down hills (or mountains), over and under rocks and branches, and work your arms and core while keeping your balance.

Stay up-to-date

Find out details of our weekly Sunday and Thursday runs by following the Dandenongs Trail Runners Facebook Page and Instagram.

DTR runners smiling and posing for a photograph mid-run. Many of the runners are wearing DTR shirts. There are trees in the background