Alaska Endurance Trail Run

Alaska Endurance Trail Run

The Alaska Endurance Trail Run is a timed trail running event held on the University of Alaska Fairbanks upper campus. Runners compete to cover as much distance as possible within a set time limit. Race options include:

• 24-hour race
• 12-hour race
• 6-hour race

Some race options offer multiple start waves. The starting area is at the ski hut near the parking lot behind the International Arctic Research Center, adjacent to the Geophysical Institute on the UAF upper campus.

The main course is a roughly 6-mile loop on the UAF West Ridge trails. The trails pass through heavily forested areas, open fields, and meadows and are used as a Nordic ski area in winter. Surfaces include gravel, grass, roots, and forest duff. There are no road crossings except for a couple of gravel maintenance roads. A short section of concrete, about 300 feet, runs along a paved bike path on the east side to get around Ballaine Lake; runners may use adjacent gravel or grass beside that path.

Trails are mildly technical in places with roots, occasional fallen branches, and some rocks. Depending on spring breakup and rainfall before the event, some sections may be soggy.

Minors aged 12 to 17 may participate but must be accompanied on site by a parent or designated guardian for the duration of the event. A post-race barbecue follows the final finish, with awards presented when results are ready. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.