The Manning Park Trail Run begins near the sound shell, quickly reaching local landmarks: Azelia Ley Homestead, the park trails, and the ascent of the "192 steps of the Manning Stairs." It offers the atmosphere of a volunteer-organized community trail event, not a formal road race, with participants of all abilities and a family presence contributing to a relaxed environment.
The course is more than a simple park loop. Following the stairs, participants gain a "magnificent view of the ocean" before descending into the "bush tracks." Here, "steep sections and loose gravel" demand careful attention to footing. The longer route incorporates additional trail and a second climb up the stairs before both paths return past Azelia Ley to the starting point.