The Great Railway Run 25k begins on Monahan Road in Cork City and concludes at the Lions Youth Centre in Carrigaline, tracing the historic path of the old railway line. This scenic course guides participants through picturesque areas including Blackrock, Mahon, and Rochestown, before tracking the shores of Cork Harbour toward Passage West. Runners navigate a picturesque route that continues through Monkstown and Raffeen, offering a blend of natural beauty and local heritage. The terrain is run on a mixture of permanent roads and paved walkways, providing a smooth and reliable surface for the duration of the event. While the course is celebrated for being predominantly flat and fast, it features a spirited climb from Raffeen to Shanbally that adds a rewarding challenge before the final stretch into Carrigaline.