The Lakes Trailfest

Event details

The Lakes TrailFest is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Area in Palmer, Alaska (4376 S Glenn Highway, Palmer, AK 99645). The event offers multiple trail distances and is organized as on-site races only on that date. Registration opens January 1, 2026, with a price increase on May 1, 2026, and registration closing on September 19, 2026. Entrants who register by September 5 are guaranteed a race shirt and size.

• Kids Run
• 5K
• 10K
• 25K
• 50K

Pricing varies by distance and by date. Early and later registration price bands are specified for each distance.

Course, support and rules

All races start and finish at the campground area of Mat Lakes Recreation Area. Courses are marked with directional signs and colored trail flags; each distance follows its own flagging. Trails include single-track and grass sections and can be wet or slick, with roots, leaves, and occasional fallen-tree obstacles. Course maps are available in the course details. The 50K is two loops of the 25K. Aid coverage: two main aid stations for the 25K and 50K, one aid station on the 10K, and no aid stations on the 5K or Kids Run. Runners are expected to carry their own water bottles for refilling.

Additional notes: an Alaska State Parking permit is required, bibs must be visible on the front of the body, dropping out must be recorded at an aid station, no dogs are allowed on course, and children under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Finisher awards include a finisher's mug and top-three awards by gender for each race; 50K finishers receive an additional award. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.