Veins of Gold

Event Overview

The Veins of Gold is a mountain race held near Palmer, Alaska.

Course Details

The course is a point-to-point route starting at the Government Peak Recreation Area and finishing at the Hatcher Pass Lodge. The route goes up Government Peak, follows the ridgeline to April Bowl, descends to the Summit Lake parking lot, and continues down the road to Independence Mine.

The distance is approximately 8 miles with about 5,000 feet of vertical gain. The terrain includes steep uphill trail, loose rock, shale, tundra, dirt road, and a small section of paved road.

Race Requirements

Registration is open to participants aged 16 and older. All participants must sign a waiver stating they have completed the entire course at least once before race day. There is a 2-hour cutoff at the top of Government Peak to continue the race.

Mandatory Gear

Runners are required to carry at least 500 calories of food, 500ml of water, a light jacket, and a hat with gloves. Bear spray is recommended as the course is in backcountry Alaska.

Logistics

Parking is available at either the start (Government Peak Recreation Area) or the finish (Independence Mine), but parking passes are not included in the race fee. The organizers are working to provide a shuttle service. Drop bags can be left at the start and will be transported to the finish line.

Support and Safety

At least three aid stations will be on the course, offering water and Skratch Lab gummies. The course will be marked with wooden stakes and reflective signs. The nonprofit Alaska Mountain Rescue Group will be present on the course, and 10% of each registration fee is donated to them.

The race will not offer refunds, deferrals, or bib transfers. Medals are given to all finishers, and podium awards are given to the top three male and female winners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.