6 running events in Palmer, Alaska
From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find running events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Palmer
6 events in Palmer-
Sun, Mar 15, 2026 at 2:30 PMSee full details
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.
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Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
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
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5K: Course will be an out and back on Bodenburg Loop. (Ages 7+)
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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+)
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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+)
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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+)
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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)
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Marathon: 8:00-8:30am
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Half Marathon: 9:00-9:30am
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10K: 9:30-10:00am
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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:
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2026 Race Shirt* (if registered by March 21)
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Finisher's Medal
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VTOR Sticker
Kid's finishers will receive:
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Finisher's Token
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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
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Sat, Jun 13, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
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!
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Sat, Jun 13, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
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.
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Sat, Sep 26, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
Join us at Matanuska Lakes State Rec Area for an exciting day of trail running!
Whether you are a seasoned trail runner or a beginner taking your first steps into the world of trail running, this event is designed to embrace all ages and abilities, with varying distances to suit your preference. This is an opportunity to challenge yourself, push your limits, and discover the power within you. We encourage you to bring your family, friends, and colleagues to join in the fun!
Registration Dates for 2026:
Early Bird Registration opens on Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 at 6:00am
Price increase on May 1, 2026
Registration closes on Sunday, September 19, 2026 at 11:59pm.
Register by Saturday, September 5 to be guaranteed shirt and size!
Race Date:
Saturday, September 26th, 2026 (NOTE: We've moved the race to a Saturday instead of the usual Sunday date.)
Race Start Times:
50K: 8:00AM
25K: 8:30AM
10K: 9:00AM
5K: 9:30AM
1.5 Mile: 10:00AM
Bib Pick Up:
All bibs will be picked up race day at the start tent at the following times:
50K: 7-7:30AM
25K: 7:30-8AM
10K: 8-8:30AM
5K: 8:30-9AM
All races will start and finish at the campground area of Mat Lakes Rec Area and will start every 30 minutes beginning with the 50K at 8:00AM.
Courses:
Race courses will be marked with directional signs and colored trail flags. Each race distance will follow their own color of flagging. Runners should be prepared for often wet/slick single track and grass trails with roots, leaves, and the occasional fallen tree obstacle. Course maps can be found in the course details tab at the top of this page.
Strava link for the 25K/50K course can be found here: 25K/50K MAP
Aid Stations:
There are two main aid stations for the 25K and 50K distances. The 50K will also have aid at the start line when they return to start their second loop. There will be one aid station on the 10K course and no aid on the 5K or Kids Run. Runners for all races will be expected to carry their own water bottles for refilling.
Parking:
An Alaska State Parking permit is required for all vehicles parking at the race. Annual passes can be purchased online through Alaska State Parks or daily passes can be purchased on-site at the card kiosk.
Rules:
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.
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: 50K course is 2 loops of 25K. 50K cutoff time of 4 hours to the halfway mark which will be back at the start. Total 50K cutoff time of 8.5 hours (4:30PM). 25K total cutoff time of 5 hours (1:30PM).
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.
Minors: Children under the age of 18 should be accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of their time at the race.
Volunteers: Please thank any volunteer you see during your time at our event. They are simply amazing and make this race possible!
Finisher Awards:
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Finisher's Mug (Given to each participant after completing their race on Sept. 26, 2026. There is no virtual option.)
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Top Three Men's/Women's Finishers from each race.
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All 50K Runners will receive an additional finisher's award.
Registration & Refunds Policy:
Due to the cost and effort of putting on these races we will not be offering refunds, deferrals, bib exchanges or race transfers. If this is a concern to you, please consider purchasing race insurance through RunSignUp.
Communication:
Please be sure your email is set to receive mail from both RunSignUp and [email protected] as we will be communicating often through email with important race information and updates. We also utilize social media for event updates - Instagram: @blackwolfendurance or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwolfendurance/
Pricing:
Kids 1 mile: $20.00
5K: $40.00 until August 15th
$50.00 August 16th - September 19th
10K: $50.00 until August 15th
$60.00 August 16th - September 19th
25K: $75.00 until August 15th
$85.00 August 16th - September 19th
50K: $100.00 until August 15th
$110.00 August 16th - September 19th
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Sat, Oct 10, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
Don't be scared, it's only a mile (ish).
Join us for the third year of this challenging Black Wolf Endurance race and our 2026 season finale at Skeetawk Ski Area where the only goal is to run as many one mile hill loops as you can in a given amount of time. Choose from 12, 8, 6, or 4 hours of racing the beautiful new Meadow Loop trail atop Skeetawk in Hatcher Pass.
WHERE:
13500 N. Skeetawk Circle
Mile 10.6 Palmer-Fishhook Rd.
Palmer, AK 99645
WHEN:
Saturday, October 11, 2025
TIMES:
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12 Hour - 8:00AM
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8 Hour (NEW) - 12:00PM
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6 Hour - 8:00AM
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4 Hour - 8:00AM OR 12:00PM
COURSE:
Runners will begin at the start tent in the Skeetawk parking lot and make their way up the Altitude gravel path (.39 miles) before veering left to the entrance of the Meadow Loop trail (.54 miles). Here runners may choose to run the Meadow Loop in the direction of their choice, clockwise or counter clockwise. After completing one full loop, runners will head back down Altitude and check in at the start tent before heading back up on their next loop.
AID:
Bring whatever food/nutrition you think you might need for the duration of the race along with anything else that comes to mind... (chairs, coolers, towels, blankets, etc.)
We'll provide Water and Electrolytes and a variety of aid station snacks. The Skeetawk Yurt will be open for warmth and coffee for purchase (and maybe even a mid race beer.)
RACE DAY:
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All runners who are starting at 8am will check in and pick up bibs from 7-7:30am at the Yurt. A brief pre race meeting will begin at 7:45am at the Stage.
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All runners who are starting after 8am will check in at the Black Wolf Endurance start tent 30 minutes prior to their race start.
RULES:
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Be honest. You must complete a full loop before coming back to the start tent to get your bib punched.
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Be respectful. Skeetawk has worked hard to create these trails and we hope to continue this race in the future.
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Keep it simple. Show up. Get your bib. Start on time. Run loops. Stop when the time is up.
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Have fun. This race format allows for some great social running and opportunities to make new running friends!
ANSWERS:
Because I know you have questions...
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There is no time limit on individual loops. Run as fast or as slow as you want.
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Loops will not be timed period. We only care how many you do.
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Winner will be the first person to complete the most amount of loops in their time division.
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Yes, you can take a break in between loops. Just know someone else is probably not taking a break.
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No, you cannot go home and come back. You must be on site for the duration of your race time.
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The weather will probably be weather. Plan for everything.
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Yes, it may get dark(ish). Bring a headlamp for early/late running hours.
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If you read the words "death" "ski area" and "altitude" and still think this course is flat, please take a moment to pause on registering for any more races until your head clears. The Kool-Aid shouldn't be that strong.
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Minors are welcome from the ages of 12-17 for any session of time. Parent/guardian must be on site for the duration of the run.
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Children under the age of 12 may sign up for the Kid Loop to run any amount or duration of loops with a parent/guardian who is registered. Must be running with a parent at all times. They do NOT have to run the entire duration of time the parent is registered for.
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Runners may use the Skeetawk Yurt, their vehicle, or a personal canopy to set up to crew themselves for the duration of the race.
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The Yurt will be open and selling coffee and drinks (beer, etc) for participants and spectators.
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A few other details are in the works. Check your email at least once before the race for updates/pre race info.
AWARDS:
An award will be given to each individual who is the first to complete the most amount of laps per time period. (1-12hr, 1-8hr, 1-6hr, 2-4hr)
Everyone else will be given Strava kudos and an invitation to come back next year and try harder. (Who are we kidding, we'll have finisher awards.)
MAP:
You won't need it but just in case...
Strava-Death By a Mile
https://skeetawk.com/summer-trails
Thank you to Skeetawk!
A portion of your race registration, as well as any donations made through RunSignUp, will be donated to Skeetawk for the continued growth of their ski and recreational area. Additional donations can be made here: https://skeetawk.com/donate
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