Equinox Marathon and Relay
- Date Sat 19th September 2026
- Time 8:00AM AKDT
- Location Fairbanks, Alaska
- Price $144.10 - $368.50
- Races 3 races
- Distances Marathon
Event summary
Join the excitement at the Equinox Marathon and Relay on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in beautiful Fairbanks, Alaska! Celebrated as the premier distance running event in Interior Alaska since its inception in 1963, this iconic race showcases the stunning fall colors and breathtaking scenery of the region. Participants can choose from a marathon run, a marathon hike, or a fun 3-person relay, making it an event that's accessible for runners and hikers of all levels.
The marathon features a challenging course that includes a thrilling climb of 3,300 feet up Ester Dome, followed by a long descent back to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where the race begins and ends. The relay teams will tackle three legs, each ranging from 8 to 9 miles, creating a festive atmosphere as they come together to complete the course. With nine aid stations along the way, runners can stay fueled and energized while enjoying the camaraderie of their fellow participants. Prepare for a race day that could bring anything from mild temperatures to the excitement of wind, snow, or mud! Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience—make sure to register by 7:00 P.M. on Friday, September 18!
The marathon features a challenging course that includes a thrilling climb of 3,300 feet up Ester Dome, followed by a long descent back to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where the race begins and ends. The relay teams will tackle three legs, each ranging from 8 to 9 miles, creating a festive atmosphere as they come together to complete the course. With nine aid stations along the way, runners can stay fueled and energized while enjoying the camaraderie of their fellow participants. Prepare for a race day that could bring anything from mild temperatures to the excitement of wind, snow, or mud! Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience—make sure to register by 7:00 P.M. on Friday, September 18!
Organiser's Description
NOTE: For RELAY TEAM INSTRUCTIONS, click on the EVENT INFO heading on the home page and then scroll down to "Marathon Relay."
Founded in 1963, the Equinox Marathon is the premier distance running event in Interior Alaska. Held amid golden fall colors, this event will test your running abilities and mental fortitude but with a marathon run, marathon hike and 3-person relay, it's accessible to just about any runner or hiker. The iconic event, held mostly on trails with some dirt and paved roads, starts and finishes at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and includes a challenging climb up Ester Dome and a long descent back to campus. Marathoners will climb 3,300 feet of vertical gain. The relay is renowned for being festive and teams will combine to complete the full course in three 8-to-9-mile legs. Race-day weather and course conditions can range from dry trails and mild temperatures to wind, snow and mud. There are nine aid stations and a great vibe at the finish area. The event is organized by Running Club North. NOTE: ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES AT 7:00 P.M. ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18!
Founded in 1963, the Equinox Marathon is the premier distance running event in Interior Alaska. Held amid golden fall colors, this event will test your running abilities and mental fortitude but with a marathon run, marathon hike and 3-person relay, it's accessible to just about any runner or hiker. The iconic event, held mostly on trails with some dirt and paved roads, starts and finishes at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and includes a challenging climb up Ester Dome and a long descent back to campus. Marathoners will climb 3,300 feet of vertical gain. The relay is renowned for being festive and teams will combine to complete the full course in three 8-to-9-mile legs. Race-day weather and course conditions can range from dry trails and mild temperatures to wind, snow and mud. There are nine aid stations and a great vibe at the finish area. The event is organized by Running Club North. NOTE: ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES AT 7:00 P.M. ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18!
Races
-
Marathon Run
Incl. $9.10 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM AKDT)
$144.10
CLOSEDThis event is for RUNNERS that wish to participate as an individual. (There is a separate Marathon Hike event.) JUNIORS age 17 & under, current UNIVERSITY students and active MILITARY will receive a $25 discount. -
Marathon Relay
Incl. $18.50 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM AKDT)
$368.50
CLOSEDThis event is for runners or hikers that wish to participate as part of a 3-person relay team. JUNIORS age 17 & under, current UNIVERSITY students and active MILITARY will receive a $75 discount. INSTRUCTIONS FOR REGISTERING A TEAM: The first person to register will be the team CAPTAIN, select the team name and must PAY THE FULL TEAM FEE. The captain can add the 2nd and 3rd team members, or alternatively those members can enter themselves at no charge after joining their designated team through the team search. This can be done through the SIGN UP buttons on the home page or by clicking the "MARATHON RELAY TEAMS" heading near the top of the page. Captains can also later add or delete members and make other edits. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd leg designations will be done at bib pickup. -
Marathon Hike
Incl. $9.10 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM AKDT)
$144.10
CLOSEDThis event is for HIKERS of the full Equinox Marathon. It is intended for those who expect to spend 7 to 10 hours on course. Hikers that finish faster than 7 hours will be moved to the Marathon Run results. JUNIORS age 17 & under, current UNIVERSITY students and active MILITARY will receive a $25 discount.
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Student Recreation Center Field, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, 99709, AK, United States
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Equinox Marathon and Relay
