Hatcher Pass Races
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Hatcher Pass Races
Organized by Black Wolf Endurance in Willow, Alaska, the Hatcher Pass Races take place along Hatcher Pass Road between Hatcher Pass Lodge and Willow. The event offers multiple course options over mountain terrain with significant elevation change.
Distances
- Hatcher Pass 50 : roughly 54 miles, about 5000 ft total elevation gain.
- Marathon : slightly longer than 26.2 miles, about 3900 ft total elevation gain.
- Relay : three person teams, each runner completes one 8–9 mile leg for the Marathon or two legs for the 50 Mile.
Course notes: The Marathon route climbs for approximately the first 25 miles then descends the final mile to the finish. The 50 Mile begins with a steep climb, descends to a midway turnaround at the Marathon start, then follows the Marathon course back to the finish.
Support and logistics: Seven aid stations are positioned every 2–5 miles and provide water, electrolytes, race fuel, and snacks; 50 Mile runners pass each aid station twice. Required gear includes a minimum 16 oz water bottle and 400 calories, with a headlamp and hi visibility vest required for the 50 Mile. Recommended items include bear spray, a light jacket, hat, and gloves.
Parking and transport: Parking is limited at start, exchange, and finish areas. 50 Mile participants park at the Independence Mine lower lot and Marathon participants park on N Shirley Towne Dr in Willow. An Alaska State Park permit is required for Independence Mine parking for a $5 on site fee. The race is point to point and there is no shuttle; participants are responsible for their own transport to and from the finish.
Safety and crew rules: No pacers are allowed for the Marathon. Relay teams may use one vehicle to reach designated exchange aid stations but no pacers are allowed for relay legs. One pacer and one crew vehicle are allowed per 50 Mile participant; pacers must wear a designated pacer bib and may not run more than 30 miles. Crew vehicles must use pullouts and must not follow or impede runners; blocking traffic may result in disqualification.
Drop bags: Drop bags accepted at the start and transported to the finish. Bags must be marked with the participant name. Organizers are not responsible for lost items. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
