The Hatcher Pass Races have become a staple in the Alaska running community, not just for the incredible location but also for the intense elevation gain/loss. The first 25 miles of the Marathon course are uphill, some gradual, some steep, some switchbacks. This is a mountain pass after all. The …
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The Hatcher Pass Races have become a staple in the Alaska running community, not just for the incredible location but also for the intense elevation gain/loss. The first 25 miles of the Marathon course are uphill, some gradual, some steep, some switchbacks. This is a mountain pass after all. The last 1+ mile is a downhill burner to the finish. Total elevation gain in the Marathon is around 3900ft. The 50 Mile course begins with a steep climb before descending the rest of the way down to the midway turnaround point (the Marathon start). 50 Milers then follow the Marathon course back up to the finish. Total elevation gain of the 50 Mile is 5000 ft. All courses will travel along Hatcher Pass road between Hatcher Pass Lodge and Willow. The Marathon route is slightly longer than 26.2 so it won’t qualify you for Boston but it will mark Alaska off your 50 States challenge. Likewise, the 50 Mile course is basically back to back marathons making it roughly 54 miles.
The Relay event is a 3-person relay with each team member running either one 8-9 mile leg for the Marathon or two legs for the 50 Mile. Relay teams MUST consist of three (3) runners. Only teams with the required number of runners will be eligible for top finish awards.
Hatcher Pass is one of the most scenic areas in the Matanuska-Susitna valley and draws in hikers, runners, bikers, and sightseers throughout the year. The Hatcher Pass Marathon takes place once the gates through the Pass are opened to the public after being locked all winter due to immense snowfall. In the winter, it’s an outdoor enthusiasts playground, but the summers are the true spice of life in this area. From July through September Hatcher Pass is THE place to be!
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Alaska is gorgeous
It's a cool race to experience Alaska, the scenery is amazing and it's not far from Anchorage. The run is uphill for the first 24 miles. Organizers claim 5,000' gain, … MORE
It’s a cool race to experience Alaska, the scenery is amazing and it’s not far from Anchorage.
The run is uphill for the first 24 miles. Organizers claim 5,000′ gain, my gps counted 3,840′.
The surface is mostly gravel road, easy to run on.
The weather is completely unpredictable. We had some drizzle, but overall lucked out.
Not many people, but great friendly atmosphere.
Relay is happening at the same time, so don’t try to keep up with the relay runners if you’re doing the whole course 🙂