Alaska in general is one of America’s best kept secrets. From the gorgeous spectacle of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) to an average of 16 ½ hours of daylight in the summer months, Alaska is a nature-lover’s paradise. The cool temperatures and breathtaking scenery make Alaska a must for any runner. Come check out some of the best marathons in Alaska.
Prince of Wales Island International Marathon
Prince of Wales Island is the third largest island in the United States at 135 miles long and 40 miles wide. The picturesque landscape is defined by its 900 miles of coastline, steep mountains, and deep valleys. While running this marathon, don’t be surprised if you run into some wildlife! Black bears, wolves, deer, eagles, otters, seals, sea lions, and beavers all call Prince of Wales Island home.
The Course
This course is a Boston Qualifier. The race starts at Craig High School and follows the Klawock Channel through the village of Klawock taking the runners past some of the island’s most captivating views. This is an out-and-back race with temperatures typically running in the low fifties to mid sixties, but be prepared because rain is always a good possibility! Register for the race here.
Credit: POWmarathon.com
Reviews
“A low-key; very scenic; well organized; unique, and special, point-to-point marathon over an undulating, certified course, ending on a bike path and over a causeway under a banner into a spacious park. There are 15 well-schooled competitive water stops along the course, and mile markers at every mile. Local police patrol the entire course throughout race. This marathon attracts both national and European marathoners. Several marathoners have qualified and have run the Boston Marathon. This race also attracts relay racers of all age groups. The organizers provide a pre-race meal, speaker, Alaskan native dancing exhibition; transportation to the start area; post awards and raffles, plus a post-race social in the community center. Weather on the day is usually sunny and rain-free.” – Priscilla Welch, Marathonguide.com
“The course was staffed with aid stations about every two miles, with one just before the pass, and one right after the pass – a good choice. The volunteers were friendly and supportive. We got lemon drops, cookies, watermelon, gummy bears, oranges and bananas – and of course water and Gatorade. These volunteers were a class act. At the finish line, there were home-made cookies of at least a half-dozen varieties, and more fluids.” -Rob Klevin, marathonguide.com
Mayor’s Midnight Sun Marathon – Anchorage
Given the scenery, organization, and the challenging course, it’s no wonder why this marathon is ranked among the top ten marathons in America. The Anchorage Mayor’s Marathon allows six and a half hours to complete the course and you can use your time from this race to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Get registered here.
The Course
When preparing for this marathon, it is strongly suggested that one practices their foot-eye coordination since it is not uncommon for a runner to encounter baseball sized rocks (perfect for rolling an ankle) on the gravel and rocky paths. Given the multiple terrains such as bike paths, gravelly paths, rocky roads, and paved roads make this course mentally and physically challenging for any runner.
Credit: Goseawolves.com
Reviews
“Weather aside, I knew this was going to be a challenging course going in and had mentally prepared for it. The course was hard to access in some area for spectators so am not suprised by the low turnout early in the marathon. I kept looking out for wildlife and wasn’t disappointed as somewhere towards the end of the race we passed a moose standing by the bike path. I agree with the comments about the shirt and medal. All in all would recommend for an Alaska marathon.”- D.N., Marathonguide.com
“This was my 43rd marathon and I have to say having ran Big Sur in May that this race, in my opinion, is right up there with regards to the beauty. In fact as beautiful as Big Sur is, it is really ocean, ocean, ocean and tons of hills. Alaska offers a different terrain every 7-10 miles with very little hills. Running over streams and up the most lush trails. The dreaded ‘tank trail’ was good to be mentally prepared for but not too bad. Didn’t have all the hype of the big races and I loved that as well. Reminded me a little of Napa, but flatter. I’d say for all of you out there trying to hit as many places to do marathons as you can this is a must”. P.K., Marathonguide.com
King Salmon Marathon – Cordova
It’s not uncommon to see marathons be dedicated to certain charities or people; however, it is pretty uncommon to have a marathon that is completely dedicated to fish. The King Salmon Marathon is dedicated to the five species of salmon that are native to Cordova which is a thriving environment for salmon migration. Runners from all over the world come to participate in the salmon runs. Sign up to run with the fishes.
The Course
Since Cordova is at sea level, the course is flat for the most part. The course crosses Copper River delta where the runners will be rewarded with the spectacle of jagged mountains, rivers, lakes, and wildflower. The course follows the Copper River railroad route with the first half of the course is gravel road where little to no traffic will pass the runners. At the 13 mile mark, the runners will pass the local airport and transition onto a paved road for the remainder of the race.
Credit: Map My Run
Reviews
“This run is perfect if you want to run your own race and see the unspoiled beauty of Alaska.This run had 9 marathon runners. We were bussed to the start line 26.2 miles down a dirt road. The race started and we ran back into town. Each runner had a follow van to keep grizzlies and overprotective mama moose from attacking you. I passed glaciers, ponds full of ducks, geese and swans, rivers being fished by bald eagles, steaming piles of fresh bear skat and amazing blue skies. At the conclusion of the race there were crowds, music and lots of fanfare despite the small town. That night we were treated to a grilled salmon dinner that I challenge you to top. I would run this race again, and again, and again.” -S.L, Marathonguide.com
“This was my 21st marathon, and the prettiest race course I’ve ever run on. After being taken out to the start line by a Jeep, we met up with the other runners, and proceeded past majestic mountains, abundant wildlife, and even glaciers. The only way into town is by ferry or air. The last road into town collapsed in the 1964 earthquake. The townspeople were wonderful. Food, shirts, and medals were beautiful. If I ever decide to rerun a marathon, this will be it.”- Tom Wiltsch, Marathonguide.com
Moose’s Tooth Marathon – Anchorage
Moose’s Tooth Marathon is a USATF Certified and a Boston Marathon qualifier. Aid stations were frequent and very well stocked. Runners commented on how good the pasta dinner was at the expo and the beautiful scenery in Anchorage. The temperature is usually mild during this season, but unfortunately it is also the rainy season so be prepared for some precipitation! Find out more on their website.
The Course
The Moose’s Tooth Marathon takes the runner through the heart of Anchorage. The course is on a paved road and it includes rolling hills and is a double out and back marathon. The first half takes place on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and the second half takes place on the Chester Creek Trail. The hills on the course are mild for the most part, but there are a couple good climbs in the middle of the race. Many runners have mentioned that this race is small and that, given the flat terrain, it is a good opportunity to set a new P.R.
Credit: Anchoragerunfest.org
Reviews
“The Anchorage Alaska Moose’s Tooth Marathon was a fast and flat course. Although, arguably, it is an urban course in the city, 99% of it was on paved trails surounded by evergreen trees – I liked it! Cool weather, great aid station and a flat course at sea level position this course as a targeted PR race, if that’s your goal jump on a plane to AK and run!” – Runnersreviews.blogspot.com
“This is a well run small to mid-size race (330 in full; 1000 in half. It has a very scenic course and can pretty much guarantee cool running temps. A few hills and false flats but mainly a flat course so PR’s can be had. How many marathons can boast a good chance that you’ll encounter a moose?” – EMR, Findmymarathon.com