2 events in Palmer, Alaska

Dash through Palmer for a St. Paddy's Day celebration on Sunday, March 15th, 2026. Choose between our Kids 1 Mile, 5K or 10K course that takes you through our beloved town of Palmer, Alaska. We will be starting and ending at the Palmer Train Depot. This year our event is in collaboration with the Friends of the Palmer Public Library Inc to celebrate the building of Palmer's NEW LIBRARY. All proceeds will go to the Friends of the Palmer Public Library Inc specifically for the purchase of new furniture and equipment.

Not only will there be the Dash for Gold but participants will have the opportunity to take part in a PARADE before the race, listen to some live Irish music and enjoy the celebration of our new Public library.

Registration: Online Registration ONLY. There will be no day of registration for the 5K or 10K.

(OPENS February 20th!)

*Registration will close at 8:00 am on March 14th!

Bib Pickup:

1:00-2:00 pm at Palmer Community Center/Train Depot

2:00-2:20pm Parade: All WELCOME - will start at the Train Depot

Race Start:

-10K 2:30pm

-5K 2:40pm

-Kids 1 mile 2:50pm

Giveaways: A one of a kind library book bag for the first 200 to register for the 10K or 5K and a cute train whistle for the first 100 kids to register for the Kids 1 mile.

Awards: Awards will be given to the top three men and women in the 5K and 10K. Kids in the 1 mile will receive a Healthy Futures Medal.

Food and Drinks: There will be water, electrolytes and light snacks at the end of the race. If you are feeling a little hungry post race, Palmer offers a wonderful variety of delicious places to grab a bite.

Gear: Conditions can be variable in March. The pavements may be clear although they may also still have some snow and perhaps ice. Please be prepared for the conditions on that day.

Cancellation of the race: In the event of extreme weather the race may need to be cancelled. The call to cancel the race will be made March 15th @ 12pm. Participants will be notified via email and AKtive Soles' Facebook page.

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.