Denali135

About the race

The Denali135 is a point to point endurance race along the Denali Highway in Alaska. The course follows approximately *131 miles* of the historic 135 mile road from Paxson to Cantwell, with an approximate total elevation gain of 8,800 feet. The pre race brief is held at Tangle Lake Lodge (Mile 20 on the Denali Highway), roughly a 3.5 to 4 hour drive from Anchorage. The first 21 miles of the route are paved.

The road then becomes chip sealed and gravel, rising to Maclaren Summit Pass at 4,086 feet (mile 36.8) and descending to Maclaren River Lodge at mile 42, which offers lodging, a small restaurant, gas and limited supplies. Alpine Creek Lodge appears near mile 68 and offers rooms, cabins, a restaurant and light supplies. Racers pass the Susitna River Bridge at mile 79.5 and the final two miles are paved into the finish near the village of Cantwell. The event is for individual runners who must be accompanied by a mandatory support crew and support vehicle.

One pacer at a time is allowed; a pacer may also share driving duties. Entrants have a maximum of 48 hours to complete the course. Finishers within 48 hours receive an Alaskan moose antler Denali135 belt buckle and an official finishers shirt; overall winners receive special awards. Qualification requires completion of at least three ultra races of 50 miles or greater in the previous three years, including at least one 100 mile race or longer.

Self run ultra distances may be considered. Qualifying races must have been completed within the maximum time allotted for those races. Registration opens September 19, 2025 and closes May 1, 2026 or when 50 runners have registered.

There are no refunds; deferments to the following year may be allowed at the sole discretion of the race director. Lodging and crew vehicle rental options are available near the start and along the route, including Tangle Lake Lodge, Maclaren River Lodge and Alpine Creek Lodge. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Events nearby