Hatcher Pass Races
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Hatcher Pass Races
The Hatcher Pass Races in Willow, AK are organized by Black Wolf Endurance and take place along Hatcher Pass Road between Hatcher Pass Lodge and Willow. The event includes multiple course options and a three-person relay, and it is held in a mountain pass environment with substantial elevation change.
- 50 Mile - roughly 54 miles, ~5000 ft total elevation gain
- Marathon - slightly longer than 26.2 miles, ~3900 ft total elevation gain
- Relay - three-person teams; legs approximately 8-9 miles each
There are seven aid stations spaced every 2-5 miles, stocked with water, electrolytes, race fuel, and snacks. 50 Mile participants pass each aid station twice. Required gear includes a minimum 16 oz water bottle and 400 calories; a head lamp and hi-visibility vest are required for the 50 Mile. Recommended items include bear spray, a light jacket, hat, and gloves.
Crew and pacer rules limit on-course support: no pacers for the marathon; one pacer and one crew vehicle allowed per 50 Mile participant with pacers limited to 30 miles; relay teams may use one vehicle to exchange runners at designated zones. Crew vehicles must use pullouts and must not follow or impede runners.
Parking is limited; 50 Mile participants use Independence Mine lower lot and must have a $5 Alaska State Park permit when parking there. The race is point to point with no shuttle. Drop bags are accepted at the start and transported to the finish and must be marked with the participant name. Registration closes July 25 at 11:59 PM AK. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
