The Great Ocean Walk forms the core of this event, an "iconic ocean ultra trail run" traversing a rugged, exposed coastline towards the 12 Apostles Visitor Information Centre. Previously known as GOW100, the Great Ocean Trail Ultra retains the character of a grassroots ultra event: straightforward, unadorned, and centered on "singletrack magic alongside the most famous coastline" rather than excessive refinement.
Underfoot conditions are predominantly trail: approximately 73% singletrack, 20% fire trail or gravel, and 5% beach, with minimal pavement. A return to Princetown Recreation Reserve is possible if finish logistics necessitate it. While bushwalkers typically spend days covering this terrain, runners complete the entire route in a single effort, encountering "Wilderness you just can't see from the Great Ocean Road!" The finish line embraces are considered an integral part of the experience, and they sound well-deserved.