Hatcher Pass Races
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Hatcher Pass Races
The Hatcher Pass Races take place in Willow, Alaska, along Hatcher Pass Road between Hatcher Pass Lodge and Willow. The event offers multiple distance options and uses the mountain pass road for all courses. The marathon course is slightly longer than 26.2 miles and the 50 Mile course is roughly 54 miles.
- Hatcher Pass 50
- Hatcher Pass 50 Relay
- Marathon
- Marathon Relay
The marathon accumulates about 3,900 feet of elevation gain, with most of the first 25 miles uphill and a steep final downhill mile. The 50 Mile course gains about 5,000 feet and follows the marathon route out and back, beginning with a steep climb to the midway turnaround. The relay is a three person format, with each member running roughly 8 to 9 mile legs for the marathon or two legs for the 50 Mile. Relay teams must field three runners to be eligible for awards.
There are seven aid stations spaced every 2 to 5 miles, stocked with water, electrolytes, race fuel, and snacks. Required gear includes a minimum 16 ounce water bottle and 400 calories, with a head lamp and a hi visibility vest required for 50 Mile entrants. Parking is limited at starts and exchange zones, Independence Mine parking is used for the 50 Mile start and requires an Alaska State Park permit for a fee. The event is point to point and participants are responsible for their own transportation from the finish. Drop bags are accepted at the start, must be marked with a name, and will be moved to the finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
