Running in Alaska

Why trail run in Alaska

There are many reasons why trail running in Alaska can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The state is home to some of the most breathtaking and varied natural landscapes in the world, including mountains, forests, rivers, and coastlines. 

Trail running in Alaska allows you to explore these landscapes and get a sense of the state’s natural beauty in a way that is not possible by car or other forms of transportation. In addition, trail running is a great way to stay active and healthy, and Alaska offers a wide range of trails and terrain to suit runners of all levels.

When to trail run in Alaska

The best time to trail run in Alaska depends on a number of factors, including your personal preferences and the type of terrain you want to run on. In general, the summer months of June through August are the most popular time for trail running in Alaska, as the weather is generally warm and dry and there is plenty of daylight. 

However, some trails may be more challenging or dangerous during this time due to snow or other hazards. The spring and fall months can also be good times for trail running in Alaska, as the weather is cooler and there are fewer crowds on the trails.

Trail running cities in Alaska

Alaska is home to a number of popular cities that are great destinations for trail running, including Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Seward. These cities offer a wide range of trails and terrain, from flat and easy to challenging and hilly. 

Anchorage, in particular, is a popular destination for trail runners due to its proximity to the Chugach State Park, which offers over 500 miles of trails for runners to explore. Fairbanks, Juneau, and Seward also offer a variety of trails for runners to enjoy.

Run experiences in Alaska

There are some of the companies that offer Alaska run experiences:

  • Alaska Sundog – In addition to occasionally collaborating with other companies (like Trail Run Adventures), Alaska Sundog also offers custom running retreats, one-day guided tours, and multi-day trail runs throughout the Last Frontier.
  • Rickey Gates’ Bus Run Bus – Alaska is a pretty big state. Some might even call it the biggest state. The idea of running the whole thing? Pretty hard. With Rickey Gates’ Bus Run Bus, you might get pretty close. On the itinerary: Matanuska Peak, Mount Marathon, Lost Lake, Kesugi Ridge with stops in Anchorage, Denali, McCarthy, Seward. This last took place in July/August of 2022. Fingers crossed it’s coming back in 2023
  • Run Alaska Trails – Run Alaska Trails offers themed run retreats in Alaska several times during the summer. In the past, this has included couple’s retreats, running retreats for POC, and a women’s running retreat.

Alaska run experiences in 2023

We’ve gathered all of the Alaska run adventures, run camps, and run retreats happening in 2023 here.

Bucket list trail races in Alaska

Planning a bucket list trail race in Alaska can be a unique and rewarding challenge for runners. The state is home to a number of races each year, ranging from short, local events to longer, more challenging races that take place in some of the state’s most beautiful locations. Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking for a new challenge or a beginner looking to test your limits, Alaska has a race for you. 

In addition, participating in a trail race in Alaska allows you to experience the state’s natural beauty in a way that is not possible through casual running or other forms of exercise. It can also be a great way to meet other runners and explore new parts of the state.

More about running in Alaska

Here are our recent stories about running experiences in Alaska.

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