Equinox Marathon and Relay logo

Equinox Marathon and Relay

Equinox Marathon and Relay is a trail running, other, and running race on September 19, 2026 in Fairbanks, AK, with entry fees from $100 to $245.

Date
September 19, 2026 (58 days to go)
Price
$100–$245
Sports
Trail RunningOtherRunning
Register →

From the Organizer

NOTE: For RELAY TEAM INSTRUCTIONS, click on the EVENT INFO heading on the home page and then scroll down to "Marathon Relay."

Founded in 1963, the Equinox Marathon is the premier distance running event in Interior Alaska. Held amid golden fall colors, this event will test your running abilities and mental fortitude — but with a marathon run, marathon hike and 3-person relay, it's accessible to just about any runner or hiker. The iconic event, held mostly on trails with some dirt and paved roads, starts and finishes at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and includes a challenging climb up Ester Dome and a long descent back to campus. Marathoners will climb 3,300 feet of vertical gain. The relay is renowned for being festive and teams will combine to complete the full course in three 8-to-9-mile legs. Race-day weather and course conditions can range from dry trails and mild temperatures to wind, snow and mud. There are nine aid stations and a great vibe at the finish area. The event is organized by Running Club North.  NOTE: Online registration closes at 7:59 p.m. on Friday, September 18!    

Events

Marathon Run$100
Marathon Hike$100
Marathon Relay$245

Weather

Typical Conditions

It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.

Typical High

52°

Typical Low

33°

Chance of Rain

39%

Based on US Climate Normals data from College Obsy.

Sunrise 7:26 AMSunset 8:02 PMDaylight 12h 36m

Host City

About Fairbanks, AK

Population

32,242

as of 2023

City Elevation

437 ft

Nearest Airport

FAI

Fairbanks International Airport · 4 mi

Time Zone

Alaska Time

From Endurance Grid

A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.

Race Location

Your Next Start Line

What Are You
Waiting For?

Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Equinox Marathon and Relay, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.

58

Days to train

Race
Equinox Marathon and Relay
Date
September 19, 2026

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From Endurance Grid

About These Sports

This race spans more than one sport — here’s a guide to each, so you can understand what’s involved and decide if it’s the right fit. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.

Trail Running

Running off-road — dirt, singletrack, and mountain paths — from 5Ks to ultras. The terrain makes for an exciting twist and adventure in your running journey.

Running

From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.

Plan your trip

Make it a Racecation

Coming from out of town? There's more to Fairbanks than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.

Plan your trip to Fairbanks
Lodging
Flights
Rental Car
Activities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Equinox Marathon and Relay?+
Equinox Marathon and Relay is a trail running, other, and running race held in Fairbanks, Alaska on September 19, 2026. It is one of the many endurance events listed on Endurance Grid, a multi-sport endurance event calendar covering running races, triathlons, HYROX, and more endurance sports across the United States. Find more trail running races near you or explore our sports guides to learn what race day actually feels like.
When and where is the Equinox Marathon and Relay?+
Saturday, September 19, 2026 in Fairbanks, Alaska at Student Recreation Center Field, University of Alaska Fairbanks. Check the event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
How do I register for the Equinox Marathon and Relay?+
Registration is handled through the event's registration page. Confirm pricing and distances there, and sign up.

Equinox Marathon and Relay

Sep 19, 2026

Register →