Denali 50K
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Denali 50K
The Denali 50K is a gravel road ultramarathon held on the Denali Highway in Alaska as part of the Denali Ultramarathons series. The course runs on the historic Denali Highway between the Paxson area and Cantwell, with high alpine views of Denali and the Alaska Range, glacier-formed kettles, eskers, and Thermokarst features.
The race begins at Maclaren Summit (Mile 37 from Paxson) and descends toward the Maclaren River. A single aid station and drop bag location is positioned at Clearwater Creek (Mile 18). The finish is at Alpine Creek Lodge, which is also the start location for the Denali 100K. The event is set in long Arctic daylight, with wide panoramic vistas along the route.
Field size is limited. The Denali50K is capped at 50 runners along with their crews and pacers. Runners may use a support vehicle and crew, or run without a crew if they have prearranged roadside pickup; drop bags may be used at the single aid station. Pacers may join at the aid station under the stated rules; bikes and dogs are not allowed during pacing. The maximum time to complete the course is nine hours.
Applicants must submit qualifying race results and meet minimum experience requirements. Registration opens September 29, 2026 and closes May 15, 2027 or when the field fills. Spirit Trips will donate a portion of registration fees to the Denali Education Center.
Required equipment for runners includes a buff, adequate water or hydration vest, at least 200 calories of carried energy, and a visible bib; pacers must carry similar items and a pacer bib. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.