Valley Thaw Out Races
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Event details
The Valley Thaw Out Races take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Palmer, Alaska. The event is centred at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm, 4350 Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, AK 99645. Distances offered include:
- Marathon - (ages 14+)
- Half Marathon - (ages 10+)
- 10K - (ages 7+)
- 5K - (ages 7+)
- Kids 1K Run - (ages 10 and under)
Registration opens November 7, 2025 and closes April 18, 2026. There is a cap of 250 participants across all divisions, excluding the kids run. There is no day-of registration, and refunds or deferments are not allowed. The race is a fundraiser for the MatSu Running Club. Finishers of the 5K/10K/Half/Marathon receive a 2026 race shirt (if registered by March 21), a finisher's medal, and a VTOR sticker. Kids receive a finisher's token and VTOR sticker.
Course and rules
All races start and finish at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm on Bodenburg Loop. The 5K is an out-and-back on Bodenburg Loop. The 10K follows Bodenburg Loop, a right turn onto the bike path, then returns to Pyrah's; the loop is noted to be slightly longer than a strict 10K. The half marathon and marathon use Bodenburg Loop and the Glenn Highway bike path with specified turnarounds; the official marathon course is still being finalised and may follow the bike path up Bogard to Colony High School and back. The kids run is a loop around the farm.
Traffic on Bodenburg Loop Road will remain open; runners will use the shoulder and run against traffic. Any child under age 10 must have an accompanying adult. Strollers and dogs are not allowed. Race volunteers will assist at crossings and blind corners. Failure to follow course rules may result in disqualification. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
