Iron Cove defines this event: a flat loop beside the bay, passing through scenic waterside areas and crossing the Iron Cove Bridge. The Bay Run feels like a local morning gathering as much as a competition, with participants sharing the path with walkers, families, and some determined runners aiming for a fast finish.
Underfoot conditions should be accommodating rather than demanding. The course is noted as suitable for prams and wheelchairs, making it a good fit for a diverse group rather than a strictly competitive road race. Children have their own race for primary school ages, which influences the atmosphere at the start and finish: parents running with young children, quicker runners cooling down, and everyone lingering for a morning of community and fitness.