Hatcher Pass is one of the most scenic areas in the Matanuska-Susitna valley in Alaska 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, its 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!
Race Info
The Hatcher Pass Marathon has become a staple in the Alaska running community, not just for its incredible location but also for its intense elevation gain of roughly 3900 ft. The first 25 miles of the race 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. The course will travel along Hatcher Pass road from Willow, up to the top at Summit Lake and finish at the iconic Hatcher Pass Lodge. The route is slightly longer than 26.2 so it wont qualify you for Boston but it will mark Alaska off your 50 States challenge.
The Marathon Relay event is a 3-person relay with each team member running about 8-9 miles. All relay teams will begin with one runner at the marathon start and exchange points at Mile 9 and Mile 17 aid stations. Relay teams MUST consist of three (3) runners. Only teams with the required number of runners will be eligible for top finish awards.
This is the 2nd year of the Hatcher Pass 50! This course will start at Hatcher Pass Lodge (the official finish) and run down to the marathon start in Willow before turning around and running the course back up to the finish. If you’re good at math, you will know this is not an exact 50 mile course, it’s really back to back marathons for a total of roughly 54 miles. Relay teams will also be allowed to register for and run the 50, with the same exchange points and each runner running two legs of the race; one down, one up.
Charity Bibs
Accomplish more with a charity bib for this event! Engage your friends and family to raise the minimum amount based on your distance and in support of a nonprofit of your choice then your registration fee is waived!
YOU choose whether the funds you raise go to support one of the WP community partners or an organization that matters to you when you sign up for a charity bib. Please understand that by signing up for a charity bib, you are making a serious commitment to raise the amount you agreed to. If you are not able to meet the minimum fundraising amount by the week of the race, you will be required to pay the difference. All donations are final.