Juneau Ridge Race
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Event Overview
The Juneau Ridge Race takes place in Juneau, Alaska. The course starts and finishes at Cope Park downtown.
Course Details
The route is approximately 15 miles long with an estimated 5000 feet of total elevation gain. It begins with a short section through town before heading up Basin Road and Perserverance Trail. Runners ascend to the summit of Mt. Juneau around mile 4.9, which is 3500 feet of climb. From there, the course traverses the Juneau Ridge for about three miles before descending into Granite Basin and returning to Perserverance Trail near mile 11. The final four miles follow Perserverance Trail back to Basin Road and return to Cope Park via The Flume. Finish times typically range between 2:15 and 6 hours.
Rules and Requirements
There is a summit time limit of 2 hours and 30 minutes. Runners not prepared to leave the Mt. Juneau summit checkpoint by 11:30 AM will be withdrawn and must descend via the Mt. Juneau trail. Participation is limited to individuals aged 18 and over on race day. Runners aged 16 or 17 may petition the race directors for entry. No participants under 16 are allowed.
Runner Responsibilities
Runners are expected to be self-sufficient. There are three checkpoints along the course, but these are not full aid stations; they offer only a very limited supply of food and water. Runners must carry all anticipated food and water for the race duration. Those not comfortable drinking untreated groundwater should carry all their water or a filter. A mandatory gear kit includes a wind/water resistant jacket, long sleeve shirt, emergency space blanket (or bivy), headwear covering the ears, gloves, water, and food. Additional gear may be required in inclement weather. Cell phone coverage is available on the Mt. Juneau ascent and much of the ridge traverse but not for most of the race's second half.
Post-Race
Post-race activities in Cope Park will include food, featuring wood-fired pizza by Forno Rosso, and awards beginning around or after 3 PM.
Additional Information
The event is a USATF-sanctioned race and part of the Alaska Mountain Running Grand Prix series. Race winners receive an automatic entry into the Mount Marathon Race in Seward. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
