Marathons, 5Ks & Races

With easy access to Chugach State Park and hundreds of miles of city trails and footpaths, Anchorage is the perfect place to go for a run, complete a marathon, or participate in a 5K or other footrace. There are even ultra-marathon options for athletes looking for an extended adventure. 

In March, the Shamrock Shuffle draws runners of all ages to a 5k course in West Anchorage, covering city streets and a picturesque portion of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

In June, the popular Mayor’s Marathon — including a half-marathon, relay, 5K and kids’ mile — is popular with Alaskans and visitors alike. Soak up the sun on one of the longest days of the year while striding down scenic local trails: Enjoy panoramic coastal views, lush forests, city greenbelts, and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. 

In August, Anchorage RunFest includes events ranging from a mile-long road race and kids’ 2K to a half and full marathon (a Boston Marathon qualifier) and a 49K ultra-marathon (a RRCA Western Regional Championship Event). 

For experienced backcountry runners looking for an unforgettable Alaska experience, the Crow Pass Crossing is a 22.5-mile race through Chugach State Park between Girdwood and Eagle River. The course comes with glacier views, mountainous terrain, and a river crossing, and the fastest competitors usually complete the race in around three hours.

For those seeking a shorter mountain run, the Arctic Valley Mountain Race offers routes of varying lengths, all featuring significant elevation gains and scenic views of the Chugach Mountains, the Anchorage Bowl, and Cook Inlet beyond. 

Casual runners will enjoy the Bonny Sosa Tuesday Night Races, a beloved annual series featuring weekly races on different courses of varying lengths throughout Anchorage.