
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.
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
Weather
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.
Host City
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
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
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From Endurance Grid
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.
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.
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.
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Plan your trip
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 FairbanksFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Equinox Marathon and Relay
Sep 19, 2026