Alaska Bearfest Marathon

Wrangell is located in Southeast Alaska in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. Surrounded by craggy mountain peaks, lush temperate rainforest, and glaciers; we are home to both black and brown bears. Our history is entwined with the geology of this land, the arrival of the Tlingit down the mighty Stikine River, and the discovery of the island by Russians exploring the Inside Passage. We live with the rhythm of nature, the ebb and flood of tides, the return of salmon to streams and the gathering of bears feeding to withstand the next winter. Bearfest is our tribute to our surroundings and the nature of what makes Wrangell so special. Please join us in celebrating the Bears of Alaska and more, each year during the last week of July.

The rolling course for the Bearfest race is set in beautiful, scenic Wrangell along the Inside Passage of Alaska, complete with aid stations and support staff. The course runs mostly on cement sidewalk and pavement roads. A large section is along the waterfront where you may see whales, seals, and certainly eagles. Make a vacation out of it to enjoy the festivities and spend a few days seeing the spectacular sights that define Alaska! Please contact us with any questions at [email protected].

There will be a pre-race meeting/pasta feed the night before (Saturday, July 31st). Check out the Alaska Bearfest Facebook page for updates and posted schedules closer to the event.

The winner of the Full Marathon receives a trip for two to the Anan Bear Observatory. Participation medals are awarded to all half and full marathon runners.

• The 5K course is a loop, the half and full marathons are out and back
• Mile markers and turnaround points will be labled for each event.
• Aid stations will be set up to provide snacks, Gatorade, and water at mile 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 13.5