Big Wild Life Runs Marathon

Registration is open to all runners with tiered pricing. Early bird rates are available through December 31, 2025. You can also register in person at bib pickup on August 15-16, 2026, though there is no race-day registration for Sunday races.

Yes, the course is USATF certified and qualifies for Boston. That said, the BQ rate among finishers is low, so come prepared to race for it rather than assuming the course will hand it to you.

The time limit is 7 hours, which gives most runners a comfortable window to finish.

This is a small race with recent finisher counts around 232. Expect a quiet, uncrowded experience rather than a big-city marathon atmosphere.

The course is an out-and-back that stays at low elevation, with the highest point under 200 feet above sea level. There is moderate cumulative gain concentrated on the outbound half, so the return leg is comparatively easier.

Mid-August in Anchorage is generally cool, with low temperatures around 50°F and highs around 64°F. It is one of the more favorable weather windows for fast running, though overcast skies and some wind are common.

The race starts and finishes near Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse in downtown Anchorage. Several hotels are within walking distance of the start and finish area.