Are you a runner or walker looking to meet some like-minded locals? Are you new in town and want to make some movement buddies? Or maybe you’re just looking to sprinkle a little fun into your fitness routine? Well, you’re in luck! Not only is the Highlands a fab spot to take a gorgeous walk or run, but it’s also an excellent place to meet other walking and running enthusiasts.
With a good selection of social running or walking groups to choose from, there’s definitely one that matches your pace. We’ve pulled together this guide to help you find your crew. Time to lace up and get social!
The Southern Highlands Bushwalkers
The Southern Highlands Bushwalkers are all about making friends while exploring the great outdoors [and we’ll admit they’re pretty great around these parts]! Whether you’re into day hikes, overnight adventures, or fun-filled camping weekends, they’ve got something for everyone, from solo explorers and families alike.
Their website has all the info on upcoming walks, the different levels and fitness abilities of the walks and how to become a member. Find out more info here.
Adventurous Women Who Walk
This is a friendly bunch of women who love getting together. It is a not-for-profit group, run by volunteers. Their walks are super varied! You might find yourself wandering through bush trails, strolling along the coast, crossing rivers, or even exploring caves. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a gorgeous sunrise or sunset. The walks are led by experienced leaders and cater to all fitness levels, so whether you’re up for a relaxed stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone. ]
The Man Walk Bowral
The Man Walk is an incredible community group that is all about giving guys a chance to get together, go for a walk, have a chat, and support each other in a relaxed, healthy way.
It’s a laid-back, welcoming space where men can feel comfortable. There’s no pressure, no barriers, just a simple way to connect. It’s all about making it okay to talk and making it okay for men to ask for help when they need it. Two walking groups start in Bowral.
Group 1 meets at the Bowral Swimming Centre, kicking off their walk at 5:45 am every Tuesday and Thursday. The walk lasts between 45 to 60 minutes.
Group 2 starts at the Scottish Arms Hotel, with their walk beginning at 5:00 pm on Wednesdays, also lasting between 45 to 60 minutes.
The Man Walk Bundanoon
Just like the one in Bowral, there is also a group in Bundanoon. The Bundanoon walks are on Wednesday mornings at 7:00 am. They are usually about 4-5 km and take around 45 minutes. They kick off at Soldiers Hall Bundanoon.
Berrima Walking Tours
See the historic village of Berrima as you’ve never seen it before with a guided walking tour led by local experts. Enjoy an easy-paced, hour-long stroll through Australia’s beloved Georgian town, where you’ll hear fascinating stories about early settlers, innkeepers, convicts, and influential women. Berrima Walking Tours offers small group public tours every Saturday and Sunday at 10 am as well as bespoke private tours. We think even locals would get so much out of one of these tours.
Southern Highlands Older Women’s Network
This group is for Highlands women who are 55+ and hosts a fab variety of local activities. This includes book clubs, movie and singing groups and a walking group. The group usually meet on a Wednesday morning and have a walk, a chat and a coffee. Perfect!
Parkrun at Southern Highlands Botanical Gardens
The Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly 5k event held every Saturday at 8:00 am at the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens in Bowral. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you prefer walking, jogging, running, or cheering on others. There’s no pressure on pace; it’s all about having a good time at your own speed. The event is powered by volunteers, and we’re so grateful to have them in our community.
South Coast Bushwalking Club
This walking group is made up of members from the Illawarra, South Sydney and the Southern Highlands. The walks take you on adventures within a 30-minute to 3-hour drive, exploring the Illawarra and beyond into southern, southeast, and southwest NSW.
They have walks for moderately fit to very fit peeps. Basically, as long as you can handle 8 to 10 km on uneven ground, you’re good to go. Expect single-day hikes of 5 to 6 hours, with options for multi-day adventures and even interstate or overseas trips.
Community Circles Wingecarribee
There are a few different walking groups run by Community Circles Wingecarribee around the Highlands. With starting points for the walking groups in Mittagong, Yerrinbool, Bowral, Bundanoon and Renwick. Check out their Facebook page for the timetable as well as other amazing programs they offer.
Well, hopefully, that should keep you on your toes [literally].
And if you’ve got a walking or running group we haven’t mentioned above, give us a shout and we’ll add it in! The more movement the merrier right?!