The Lakes TrailFest

More races nearby

• Valley Thaw Out Races [runsignup.com]

  Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

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  Come join us as we celebrate the start of running season in Alaska with the Valley Thaw Out Races!

  Grab your friends, family, and cohorts and sign up to run some spring miles together! There is a...

  Come join us as we celebrate the start of running season in Alaska with the Valley Thaw Out Races!

  Grab your friends, family, and cohorts and sign up to run some spring miles together! There is a distance for everyone at this family friendly race. Races include a kids Fun Run, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and NEW this year...a Full Marathon. Please see age restrictions for each distance.

  The Valley Thaw Out Races are a fundraiser for the MatSu Running Club, a non profit group offering coached running workouts and group runs throughout the spring and summer.

  THE COURSE:

  All races will start and finish at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm on Bodenburg Loop. 4350 Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, AK 99645

  • 5K: Course will be an out and back on Bodenburg Loop. (Ages 7+)

  • 10K: Runners will head out on Bodenburg Loop until they reach the Glenn Highway, they will then turn RIGHT onto the bike path and run down to the next Bodenburg Loop Rd where they will turn RIGHT again and follow the road back to Pyrah's. Full disclosure...this full loop is just a bit longer than a strict 10K. (Ages 7+)

  • Half Marathon: Runners will head out on Bodenburg Loop until they reach the Glenn Highway, they will then turn LEFT onto the bike path and continue on the bike path until the turnaround by Virginia Ave. From the turnaround they will take the bike path to the SECOND Bodenburg Loop Rd where they will turn RIGHT and follow the road back to Pyrah's. (Ages 10+)

  • Marathon: Runners will head out on Bodenburg Loop until they reach the Glenn Highway, they will then turn LEFT onto the bike path and continue on the bike path to Airport Rd where they will turn LEFT. Runners will make their way to the Outer Springer Loop before returning back to the bike path via Airport Rd. Once on the bike path runners will continue on to the SECOND Bodenburg Loop Rd where they will turn RIGHT and follow the road back to Pyrah's. (Ages 14+)

  • Kid's Run: A fun loop around the beautiful farmlands of Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm. (Ages 10 & under. Adult/Older sibling may chaperone runner.)

  COURSE RESTRICTIONS:

  We will NOT be closing traffic to Bodenburg Loop Road. Runners will run on the shoulder against traffic. The 5K and 10K are open to children 7 and over, the Half is open to children 10 and over, the Marathon is open to children 14 and over. YOU are responsible for ensuring that your child understands the rules of the road. Any child under the age of 10 MUST have an adult running with them for the duration of the race. Race volunteers will assist with any crossings and blind corners. Due to these conditions there will be NO STROLLERS OR DOGS allowed the course. Failure to adhere to these regulations WILL result in a disqualification and/or removal from the race.

  RACE CAPS:

  In compliance with our permits for this event, the race cap is 250 participants across all divisions (excluding kids run.) We anticipate selling out quickly and once we do will establish a wait list for those hoping to get in.

  START TIMES:

  Marathon: 9:00AM

  Half Marathon: 10:00AM

  10K: 10:30AM

  5K: 11:00AM

  Kids Run: 11:30AM

  BIB PICKUP:

  Thursday, April 23: 5:00-7:00pm at AKtive Soles Performance Footwear Wasilla, (984 N Meridian Pl, Suite D, Wasilla, AK)

  Saturday, April 25: at registration tent at Pyrah's (4350 Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, AK)

  • Marathon: 8:00-8:30am

  • Half Marathon: 9:00-9:30am

  • 10K: 9:30-10:00am

  • 5K: 10:00-10:30am

  Yes, you may pick up your friend's bib. No, you may not exchange your shirt size.

  RACE SWAG:

  All 5K/10K/Half/Marathon finishers will receive:

  • 2026 Race Shirt* (if registered by March 21)

  • Finisher's Medal

  • VTOR Sticker

  Kid's finishers will receive:

  • Finisher's Token

  • VTOR Sticker

  *NOTE: The last day to register and be guaranteed a shirt is Saturday, March 21, 2026.

  REGISTRATION POLICY:

  Registration will open on November 7, 2025 at 8:00am and close on April 18, 2026 at midnight. Due to the cost of putting on events like this there will be NO refunds or deferments allowed. (Please consider purchasing race insurance at checkout if this is a concern for you.) There is NO day of race registration.

  RACE PARTNER:

  The Valley Thaw Out Races is a fundraising event for the MatSu Running Club, a non-profit running club in the Matanuska Susitna Valley. A portion of the race proceeds go directly to the club in support of their mission to help new and seasoned runners meet personal goals, create community, and increase the joy and satisfaction of running. For more information you can visit their website here: MatSu Running Club

  1.9 km from Palmer
  4350 Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, Alaska, 99645, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

  3.1 Miles 6.2 Miles 13.1 Miles 26.2 Miles Fun Run Run

• The Why Not Tri [whynottriwasilla.net] [Register at runsignup.com]

  Sat, Jun 13, 2026 at 9:00 AM

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  About the Why Not Tri

  We're a great local triathlon to welcome beginners to the sport but also challenge the experienced athlete. Racers will complete a 400 yard swim, 8.5 mile bike, and a 5k cross...

  About the Why Not Tri

  We're a great local triathlon to welcome beginners to the sport but also challenge the experienced athlete. Racers will complete a 400 yard swim, 8.5 mile bike, and a 5k cross country run. Join us for our adult solo or team relay race or get the little ones involved with our Kids Race for the budding triathletes ages 6-12.

  Why Not Tri was started to promote healthy lifestyles and introduce the fun sport of triathlon to the community. We couldn't have made it possible without our racers, volunteers, and sponsors over the last several years. Thank you!

  We are proud to donate to the ALS Therapy Development Institute. ALS is a progressive disease that deteriorates the muscles, and there currently is no cure. Thank you for donating to the cause!

  2.4 km from Palmer
  1170 W. Bogard Rd, Palmer, Alaska, 99654, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

  4.1 Miles 11.84 Miles Run Swim Triathlon

• Run For Impact [runsignup.com]

  Sat, Jun 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM

  Description

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  Join us for a community 5K trail race dedicated to raising funds for Kuuk Water.

  The Run for Impact 5k is more than just a race—it’s an opportunity for individuals, families, and local businesses to...

  Join us for a community 5K trail race dedicated to raising funds for Kuuk Water.

  The Run for Impact 5k is more than just a race—it’s an opportunity for individuals, families, and local businesses to come together in support of Kuuk Water’s mission to serve Alaskan communities. This event directly benefits Kuuk’s ongoing initiatives, including disaster relief efforts, clean water access, community recycling programs, youth-focused services such as Kid’s Cupboard, and broader community improvement projects across Alaska.

  Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to lace up and join the cause. The 5K distance is welcoming for beginners while still offering a rewarding challenge for experienced runners, creating a shared sense of accomplishment for everyone involved. By participating, you’re not only embracing a healthy and energizing activity—you’re helping provide essential resources, strengthen local communities, and support meaningful, on-the-ground projects that make a lasting difference throughout Alaska.

  Race will take place on the Colony High School XC trails.

  All spectators and athletes will need to park outside of the gated stadium area

  5K Race 11:00AKDT-12:30AKDT

  This will start in the front soccer field near the school and continue through Colony XC trails with flaggers to keep you on course. This is a moderately difficult rolling grass trail. No strollers or pets are permitted on the course during the race.

  Kid's Untimed Fun Run 10:00AKDT-10:30AKDT

  Children 10 and under run a free 1K around out and back on the loop on trails and finish in the soccer field. Volunteers will monitor the course during the fun run. Please ensure there is an adult present for your child when they are finished running.

  T-Shirts: MUST register by May 23 to be guaranteed size/shirt.

  Bib Pick Up: Starting at 8:30am on race day near the start tent (Kid's Run participant will NOT have bibs)

  Race Day Registration: From 8:00am - 9:00am. If paying with card you will be asked to register online through RunSignUp. Cash payments (exact) will also be accepted.

  Discounts: Family Pack Option ($120 for four family members)

  Transfers/Deferrals/Refunds: There are NO bib or entry transfers allowed. NO deferrals or refunds. Please consider adding RunSignUp race protection if this is a concern.

  2.4 km from Palmer
  9550 E Bogard Rd, Palmer, Alaska, 99645, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

  5k Cycling Fun Run Run Trail

• The Hourglass: Valley [runsignup.com]

  Sat, Jun 27, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

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  THE HOURGLASS: VALLEY

  Big mountains. Shrinking clock. — June 27, 2026 (Palmer/Mat-su)

  The Hourglass blends fun, challenge, and community in a way most races don’t. You’ll laugh, you’ll struggle,...

  THE HOURGLASS: VALLEY

  Big mountains. Shrinking clock. — June 27, 2026 (Palmer/Mat-su)

  The Hourglass blends fun, challenge, and community in a way most races don’t. You’ll laugh, you’ll struggle, you’ll meet new friends — and you’ll quickly understand why this event represents the heart of Toughest Alive: stay in the fight. It’s a simple you vs. you format that creates big moments and even bigger memories. It is a last-person-standing style run/ruck/hybrid/carry event that will leave you inspired.

  The Summer Edition Hourglass is at the Crevasse–Moraine Trailhead in Palmer, AK. Start with a 30:00 round, complete your loop and restart the next with 1:00 minute less every reset — keep beating the clock to earn your next start. Choose your category, bring your grit, and come suffer (and smile) with the community.

  DATE / TIME / LOCATION

  Date: June 27, 2026

  Location: Crevasse–Moraine Trailhead, Palmer, AK

  Schedule

  Check-in: 9:15 AM

  Race brief: 9:45 AM

  Start time: 10:00 AM

  THE HOURGLASS FORMAT

  You’ll repeat your category's loop as long as you can finish within the time period.

  Round 1 time period: 30:00; Each round after: the time period decreases by 1:00:

  • Round 1 time period: 30:00

  • Round 2 time period: 29:00.

  • Round 3 time period: 28:00.

  • Round 4 time period: 27:00, etc.

  • Until the last person standing (in each respective category)

  How it works:

  Start when the round begins.

  Finish your required work before the time cap expires.

  Make the cutoff = you earn your next start at the reset.

  Miss the cutoff = your event is complete (stay and cheer others on!).

  COURSE LOOPS

  • Run loop: 2 miles

  • Ruck loop: 1 mile

  • Loaded Carry loop: 0.5 miles

  • Hybrid Athlete: 2 mile run loop + sandbag zone

  EVENT CATEGORIES

  RUN (2-mile loop)

  Complete the 2-mile loop each round and return before the shrinking time cap.

  RUCK (1-mile loop)

  Complete the 1-mile loop each round with a weighted pack and return before the time cap.

  Ruck weight standard (bring your own pack/weights):

  • Men: 35 lb

  • Women: 20 lb

  HYBRID ATHLETE

  A mix of running + strength each round:

  Each participant will complete the 2-mile loop + 10 burpees before the round is considered completed.

  Standard: Chest & Thighs touch the ground at the bottom; elbows get above the ears at the top.

  LOADED CARRY

  A pure grit test — and yes, it follows the same Hourglass timing.

  Each round complete: 800m sandbag carry

  Men: 60 lb

  Women: 45 lb

  Carry options: bearhug, shoulder, or suitcase-style. You may set the bag down as needed, but you must finish within the time cap to earn the next round.

  YOUTH DIVISION (Ages 8–11)

  The Youth Division follows the exact Hourglass format with scaled distances and loads. It’s designed to develop grit, smart pacing, and confidence under pressure — in a safe, supportive environment. This is not a side race or a participation jog. It’s a real competition built for young athletes who want to test themselves and grow.

  At a previous Hourglass event, a young athlete won the adult rucking division — finishing ahead of more than 20 military competitors. It wasn’t about ego. It was about pacing, resilience, and belief. That moment reminded us what’s possible when young athletes are given the opportunity to rise. We invite kids everywhere to show up, discover their potential, and surprise themselves.

  Youth Standards

  All youth participants follow the same shrinking 30:00 → 29:00 → 28:00 format as the adults.

  Run:

  1 mile per round

  Ruck:

  0.5 mile per round

  • Recommended weight: 10–15 lb

  • Maximum load: not more than 20% of the child’s bodyweight

  Hybrid:

  1 mile + 5 burpees

  • Standard: chest & thighs touch ground; full extension at the top

  Loaded Carry:

  400m sandbag carry (sandbags provided)

  • Recommended weight range: 20–30 lb depending on age/size

  • Maximum load: not more than 35% of the child’s bodyweight

  Early rounds are manageable. The challenge increases gradually as the clock tightens — teaching pacing, discipline, and resilience in real time.

  AWARDS

  Awards will go to the top finisher in each category (Run, Ruck, Hybrid Athlete, Loaded Carry).

  As with every Hourglass Race, the top 5 participants in each category receive an invitation to the "Ultimate Hourglass" in Anchorage, AK in September to compete against other top finishers for a cash prize and big bragging rights (per category).

  WHAT TO BRING

  Trail shoes recommended

  Water/electrolytes

  Bug spray / sun protection

  Weather-appropriate layers (Alaska summers are highly varied)

  Gloves optional (sandbag events)

  Ruckers: bring your own pack + weights to meet the standard

  FAQ

  What is the Hourglass format?

  It’s last-person-standing style. Complete your loop/work before the time cap. The cap starts at 30:00 and drops by 1:00 every round. Miss the cutoff and your event is complete.

  Can I rest between rounds?

  Yes. Absolutely! Any time left after you finish is your rest time until the next round starts.

  Can I switch categories mid-event?

  No. Please choose your category during registration. If you need to switch at any time before the event, contact us and we’ll help if possible.

  How is it scored?

  Your result is based on how many rounds you successfully complete before missing a time cap.

  Is this beginner-friendly?

  Yes. Early rounds are manageable and the time cap tightens gradually. Choose the category that fits your current fitness level.

  What if the weather is bad?

  This is an Alaska event — we plan to operate in typical conditions. If conditions become unsafe, we’ll modify the format or course and notify participants.

  Refunds / transfers?

  All registrations are final. If you can’t attend, you may transfer your entry to another participant prior to the event (details provided in the pre-event email).

  3.4 km from Palmer
  N Loma Prieta Drive, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, 99645, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

  1 Miles 2 Miles Run Trail

• Veins of Gold 2026 [blackwolfendurance.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

  Sat, Aug 15, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

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  Starting at Government Peak Recreation Area parking lot runners will make their way up Government Peak via the race trail. Once to the top of Government Peak participants will continue to follow the...

  Starting at Government Peak Recreation Area parking lot runners will make their way up Government Peak via the race trail. Once to the top of Government Peak participants will continue to follow the ridge line over to April Bowl and down to the Summit Lake Parking lot. Once at the parking lot runners will continue down the road to Independence Mine! The race itself is about 8 miles with around 5,000ft vertical gain. This race is challenging and covers a variety of terrain including steep uphill trail, loose rock, shale, tundra, dirt road and a tiny portion of paved road at the very end. Weather and conditions can change the terrain very quickly making it more difficult/dangerous. It is ultimately the responsibility of the participant to be aware of their surroundings.

  Registration Dates for 2026:

  Registration will open on January 1 at 6am and closes on August 8th at 11:59pm

  See pricing by dates at the very bottom of this page

  Registrations completed after July 25th are not guaranteed shirt size or shirt.

  Alaska Mountain Rescue Group

  is a nonprofit volunteer search and rescue organization that will be out on the course during our race. They are a huge asset to our community and we hope you help us support them!

  10% of your registration fee will be going to Alaska Mountain Rescue Group. When you see them out on the course be sure to thank them for their time & support.

  Learn more about AMRG.

  DONATE TO AMRG HERE

  Race Date:

  Saturday, August 15th, 2026

  Times:

  Race Start: 9am

  DAY OF Bib Pickup: 7:00-8:30am

  Mandatory Race Meeting: 8:40-8:50am

  Requirements:

  All participants will be required to sign a waiver that they have completed the entire course at least once prior to race day.

  If you are not comfortable in the backcountry, with vertical gain, loose footing, and steep ridges this race is not for you.

  Due to safety for all runners we require you to carry at least 500 calories, 500ml water, a light jacket, and hat/gloves.

  Weather Considerations/Terrain:

  Due to unpredictable mountain weather we reserve the right to cancel the race at any point due to weather/safety concerns.

  Rules:

  Not adhering to the below rules may result in time penalty or disqualification, it will be left up to the race organizers discretion.

  Bibs: Bibs MUST be visible on the front of the body at all times. If wearing layers be prepared to adjust your bib as needed.

  Timing Chips: Your timing chip will be attached to the back of your bib, if possible please keep your bib on the front of your shirt or shorts so we can easily see your number for both safety and timing!

  Assisting Runners In Need: If you encounter a runner in need of help/distress you must stop, not assisting a runner in need will result in disqualification. Time spent giving assistance to another participant will be taken into account by race organizers to adjust finishing time.

  Recommended Gear: We highly recommend carrying the essential gear to maintain a higher capacity for safety in the mountains (see list below).

  Staying On Course: The course will be well marked and runners must stay on the route at all times for both safety and competition. Going off trail or cutting switchbacks is not allowed. If you end up off trail, please return to the point of departure and continue on.

  Headphones: We highly recommend NOT wearing headphone for the safety of you and other racers.

  Dropping Out: Runners may only drop at an aid station checkpoint. In order to drop out find an aid station volunteer to record your drop. This will help us avoid unnecessary search efforts.

  No Littering: Trash receptacles will be available at all aid stations. Please do not dispose of trash outside of the aid stations.

  Sportsmanship: Poor Sportsmanship will not be tolerated toward any participant, volunteer or worker this can result in immediate disqualification.

  Cutoff Times: There will be a cutoff of 2 hours at the top of Government Peak to continue on.

  No Dogs: Although we would love to see everyone's dog they are not allowed on the course due to safety for other participants, you and your dog.

  Volunteers: Please thank any volunteer you see during your time at our event. They are simply amazing and make this race possible!

  Poles: Poles are acceptable on this race course

  Cut Off Time:

  There will be a cutoff of 2 hours at the top of Government Peak to continue on. If you are past the 2 hour cutoff, you must comply with all instructions from the course volunteers and sweeps. If you decide to turn back at ANY point you MUST do so at an aid station!

  Aid Stations & Course Markings

  We plan to have at least 3 aid stations throughout the course. Although we will have aid stations with water and fuel, please do not fully rely on them for all your race needs. Come prepared with what your individual needs are.

  Aid Station #1. Halfway up Gov Peak (once you're above tree line)

  Aid Station #2. Gov. Peak - water & Skratch lab gummies

  Aid Station #3. Hatch Peak - water & Skratch lab gummies

  The course will be marked with wooden orange/blue stakes and reflective arrow signs where needed.

  Required & Recommended Gear:

  REQUIRED:

  Minimum 500 calories

  500ml water

  Light Jacket

  Hat and gloves

  HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:

  Space Blanket: In case of emergencies, or if you run into someone who needs one.

  Whistle: In the event of an emergency, you can bring attention to yourself.

  Running Vest AND/OR 16 oz Water Carrying Capacity.

  Satellite Communication: inReach, Spot, etc.

  Bear Spray: This is backcountry Alaska.

  ADDITIONALLY RECOMMENDED:

  Food Reserves: To avoid bonking/crashing while climbing and running

  Long Sleeve: Additional layer of protection when the temps are low or precipitation is forecasted

  Rain/Wind Pants: Being prepared for possible wind and rain is important as either can cause an extreme temperature drop in the mountains

  Sunscreen: Keep your exposed skin protected

  Phone with Emergency Numbers Added: There will likely be spotty service on the first half of the race and on the ridgeline however, you will be out of service once you drop down to summit lake.

  Drop Bags:

  We will be taking any drop bags for participants at the start and transport them to the finish line. Bags MUST be marked with your name. We are not responsible for any lost items.

  Refunds:

  Due to the cost and effort of putting on these races we will not be offering refunds, deferrals, bib exchanges or race transfers.

  Race Medals/Awards:

  Race medals are for participant finishers, you will receive your race medal after completing the full marked course on August 16th, 2025.

  Podium awards will be given the top 3 male/female winners.

  Parking & Location :

  You can park at either Government Peak Recreation Area (Borough Pass) or Independence Mine (State Park Pass). Please note that this is a point to point race. We are working to provide shuttle access and will update runners via email as race day gets closer.

  Parking passes are NOT included in the race fee, you can purchase a day pass or an annual pass.

  Starting Location:

  Government Peak Recreation Area

  N Mountain Trails Dr, Palmer, AK 99645

  Ending Location:

  Hatcher Pass Lodge

  21623 Gold Cord Rd, Palmer, AK 99645

  Course:

  Check out the course details here!

  Ages:

  Ages 16+ can register for our race.

  *Keep in mind the difficulty level and the technicality of the race course. Please be comfortable with the terrain prior to signing up!

  • Pricing:

  01/01/26 - 07/05/25 = $85.00

  07/04/26 - 08/08/25 = $105.00

  6.7 km from Palmer
  N Mountain Trails Dr, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, 99645, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

  Run Trail