Denali135
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Denali135
The Denali135 is a point-to-point endurance race that follows most of the Denali Highway in Alaska. The course covers approximately 131 miles of the 135 mile highway, with about 8,800 feet of total elevation gain. The route runs from Paxson on the east side to Cantwell on the west side, adjacent to the entrance to Denali National Park.
The pre-race briefing takes place at Tangle Lake Lodge (mile 20). The first 21 miles of the highway are paved; beyond that the road is chip sealed and gravel. The course rises to Maclaren Summit Pass at 4,086 feet (mile 36.8), passes Maclaren River Lodge (mile 42) and Alpine Creek Lodge (mile 68), crosses the Susitna River Bridge (mile 79.5), and becomes paved again at mile 131.8 for the final two miles to the finish outside Cantwell. Maclaren River Lodge and Alpine Creek Lodge offer lodging and limited supplies.
Runners compete individually but must have a mandatory support vehicle and crew; one pacer at a time may accompany a runner and may also drive the crew vehicle. The maximum allowed time to complete the course is 48 hours. Entry is limited to 50 runners for 2026. Applicants must have completed at least three ultra races of 50 miles or more in the previous three years, including at least one 100 mile race; self-run ultra distances may be considered. There are no refunds; deferments may be granted at the race director’s discretion. Registration opens September 19, 2025 and closes May 1, 2026 or when the field fills. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.