Valley Thaw Out Races

Event Overview

Come join us as we celebrate the start of running season in Alaska with the Valley Thaw Out Races!

• Date: April 24, 2027
• Location: 4350 Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, AK
• Website: Valley Thaw Out Races
• Family Friendly: Distances include a kids Fun Run, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and NEW Full Marathon.

Course Details

All races will start and finish at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm on Bodenburg Loop.

• 5K: Course will be an out and back on Bodenburg Loop. (Ages 7+)
• 10K: Runners will head out on Bodenburg Loop until they reach the Glenn Highway, then turn RIGHT onto the bike path and run down to the next Bodenburg Loop Rd where they will turn RIGHT again and follow the road back to Pyrah's. (Ages 7+)
• Half Marathon: Runners will head out on Bodenburg Loop until reaching the Glenn Highway, then turn LEFT onto the bike path and continue until the turnaround by Virginia Ave. (Ages 10+)
• Marathon: Runners will head out on Bodenburg Loop, reach the Glenn Highway, then LEFT onto the bike path, passing through Airport Rd to Outer Springer Loop before returning. (Ages 14+)

Course Restrictions

• Traffic: Runners will run on the shoulder against traffic. All races have specific age requirements.
• Adult Supervision: Children under 10 must have an adult accompanying them.
• Prohibited: Strollers, dogs, bikes, and anything besides running shoes are not allowed on the course.
• Disqualifications: Non-compliance with rules will result in disqualification from the race.

Registration Information

• Race Cap: 350 participants across all divisions (excluding kids run).
• Start Times: Marathon at 9:00AM, Half Marathon at 10:00AM, 10K at 10:30AM, 5K at 11:00AM, Kids Run at 11:30AM.
• Bib Pickup: April 23 at AKtive Soles Performance Footwear, or on race day at the registration tent.
• Race Swag: Finishers will receive a 2026 Race Shirt (if registered by March 21), a Finisher's Medal, and a VTOR Sticker.

Race Partner

The Valley Thaw Out Races is a fundraising event for the MatSu Running Club, a non-profit organization supporting runners in the Mat-Su Valley. A portion of proceeds will support their mission.

For more information, visit the MatSu Running Club.