Equinox Marathon and Relay
- Date Sat 19th September 2026
- Time 8:00AM AKDT
- Location Fairbanks, Alaska
- Price $107.00 - $260.70
- Races 3 races
- Distances Marathon
Event summary
Join the excitement at the Equinox Marathon and Relay on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in Fairbanks, Alaska! This iconic event, founded in 1963, is the premier distance running challenge in Interior Alaska, set against a stunning backdrop of golden fall colors. Participants can choose from a full marathon, a marathon hike, or a lively 3-person relay, making it accessible for runners and hikers of all abilities.
The marathon course features a rigorous climb of 3,300 feet up Ester Dome, followed by a thrilling descent back to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where the race begins and ends. Relay teams will enjoy a festive atmosphere as they tackle three 8-to-9-mile legs, combining their strengths to complete the full course. With varying weather conditions ranging from dry trails to snow and mud, this event promises to test your limits while providing an unforgettable experience. With nine aid stations along the way and a vibrant finish area, the Equinox Marathon and Relay is an event you won't want to miss! Be sure to register online before it closes at 7:59 p.m. on September 18!
The marathon course features a rigorous climb of 3,300 feet up Ester Dome, followed by a thrilling descent back to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where the race begins and ends. Relay teams will enjoy a festive atmosphere as they tackle three 8-to-9-mile legs, combining their strengths to complete the full course. With varying weather conditions ranging from dry trails to snow and mud, this event promises to test your limits while providing an unforgettable experience. With nine aid stations along the way and a vibrant finish area, the Equinox Marathon and Relay is an event you won't want to miss! Be sure to register online before it closes at 7:59 p.m. on 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 7:59 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 7:59 P.M. ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18!
Races
-
Marathon Run
Incl. $7.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM AKDT)
$107.00
This 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. $15.70 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM AKDT)
$260.70
This 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. $7.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 19th September 2026 (8:00AM AKDT)
$107.00
This 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
