The First Howl: Trails & Nog
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Event details
The First Howl: Trails & Nog is a winter trail event on January 1, 2026 in Palmer, Alaska. The venue is Crevasse Moraine Trailhead, N Loma Prieta Dr, Palmer, AK 99645. The event offers three trail loop distances and a separate Nog Mile challenge. Registration options include both the Trails & Nog Mile, Trails ONLY, or Nog Mile ONLY. Registration closes December 27, 2025.
Course and format
The trail portion uses three separate loops on the Crevasse Moraine trail system. Distances offered:
- 5 mile
- 3 mile
- 1 mile
Runners have four hours to complete all three loops. At bib pick up each runner spins a wheel to determine the order of their loops. At the halfway point of each loop runners must find a hidden book, remove the page that matches their bib number, and return that page to the race director at loop completion. The first male and female runners to complete all three loops and turn in all pages are the winners.
The Nog Mile is a quarter-mile loop repeated four times (one mile total). Participants drink an 8 oz glass of eggnog at the pavilion before each quarter-mile lap. The fastest male and female to complete four loops without vomiting are the winners. Eggnog will be provided; donations are appreciated.
Logistics, awards and parking
Bib pick up takes place at the pavilion. Awards are given to the top male and female finishers of each race. Every finisher receives a custom First Howl gift. Parking at Crevasse Moraine is limited; a 2026 MatSu Borough parking permit is required for the day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
