Inspired by Piotr's successful solo unsupported attempt in 2023, I started from the Western End of the Larapinta Trail at Redbank Gorge at 6:02am on Friday 29th August, 2025 with all supplies needed for the journey except for water which would be collected at publicly accessible trailhead tanks along the way. For fuller trip report please see Strava link Larapinta unsupported FKT adventure | Run | Strava
Everything went relatively smoothly until a major trip and fall descending the high route on Section 3, about 55kms from the finish. Fortunately still able to continue albeit a bit slower than I would have otherwise. Arrived at Telegraph Station eastern trailhead at 9:41am on Sunday 31st August, 2025.
Attempt completed in favourable weather being sunny 18-24 degree max temps and between 1-5 degrees overnight.
For consistency of future attempts note that the 'standard' route can be done in either direction, but that on Section 7, the Ellery South route is followed and on Section 3, the Alternative High Route is followed. Additionally, if attempting from East to West, the trail ends at Redbank Gorge Trailhead after ascending and descending Mt Sonder (not at the Mt Sonder Summit). This is the full 231km route (all 12 sections of the Larapinta Trail added together). References to the trail being 223kms is inaccurate as it assumes physically starting or ending at Mt Sonder Summit - anyone got a chopper?