The Lost Lake Breath of Life Run began as a simple idea—a desire to make a big impact for those living with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) in Alaska. With few fundraisers dedicated to CF in the state, we wanted to create an event as bold and expansive as Alaska itself. Knowing the Seward community’s love for running, a trail race felt like the perfect fit. But where should it take place? The answer was obvious—Lost Lake.
This 16-mile U.S. Forest Service trail starts at Primrose Campground, winds through stunning alpine landscapes, and finishes near Bear Creek, just outside Seward. We had the perfect location. Now, we needed to make the race special.
Most races offer the usual—t-shirts and medals—but we aimed for something deeper. We wanted runners to feel the heart behind this event, to understand that every mile they covered helped fuel the fight to cure Cystic Fibrosis. This wasn’t just a race; it was a movement.
The Lost Lake Run kicks off with the traditional “Carbo Feed” the evening before race day. It’s a chance for runners to gather, swap strategies, and fuel up while picking up their race bibs. The next morning, last-minute check-ins take place before runners are shuttled 12 miles to the starting line. The energy builds until the starting horn sounds, and runners take off into the wild.
Roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes later, the fastest runners begin crossing the finish line—just in time for the celebratory barbecue. It’s a moment to relax, share stories, and cheer on the incoming finishers. Later in the day, awards are presented to top finishers in various age categories, closing out the event with well-earned recognition.
When the Lost Lake Breath of Life Run first hit the trails in 1992, it saw just 55 participants. Today, the race reaches its 750-runner capacity almost instantly—selling out in just over five minutes in 2016. It has become one of Alaska’s most sought-after mountain races, drawing runners from near and far.
More importantly, the impact has been immense. Since its inception, the Lost Lake Run has raised over $2 million for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, bringing hope and critical funding to those living with this challenging disease.
Every runner. Every step. Every dollar. Together, we run for a cure.
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Most gorgeous race ever
This race covers the most gorgeous trail I have ever been on in 40+ years of hiking. On a clear day you have a 360 view of the Chugach mountain … MORE
This race covers the most gorgeous trail I have ever been on in 40+ years of hiking. On a clear day you have a 360 view of the Chugach mountain peaks lit red by blooming fireweed. The ridge overlooks the small town of Seward, AK and all of Kenai Fjords National Park. To top it off the race is a fund raiser for Cystic Fibrosis so the entry fee is easy to part with.
The trail does make you earn your views with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain up one side of the ridge and dropping back down the other side, but it is worth every step.