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Marathon Details - King Salmon Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > AK > Cordova > King Salmon Marathon

King Salmon Marathon

Alaska Salmon Runs King Salmon Marathon & Half-Marathon, 10K, 5K, 1 Mile

Cordova, AK USA

July 19, 2025

https://salmonjam.org/ak-salmon-runs/

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Marathon Results

By Year:

2024 2023 2022 2021 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 Top 3 Finishers

Race Details

Marathon course is very scenic, passes mountains, glaciers, rivers and wetlands ponds. Course is flat, half-gravel and half-paved. Cordova is at sea level. About 250 runners altogether for all distances.

Contact Information

Name:	Kristin Carpenter
Address:	Alaska Salmon Runs PO Box 1430 Cordova, AK 99574
Phone Number:	(907) 424-5135
Email:	Email the organizers

More Information


Number of Runners:	30
Number of Spectators:	50
Fees & Deadlines:	$65, on-line registration deadline is July 16, 2025, may register in town until July 18, 2025, 5 p.m. at Bidarki Recreation Center.
Start Time:	7 a.m.
Course Highlights:	First half of course is on a gravel/dirt road, second half is paved. Course starts at the Copper River and traverses the river's delta passing glaciers and crossing several rivers.
Course Refreshments:	water, Gatorade, energy snacks
Certified? Certification:	Yes, USATF
Race Day Registration:	only for half-marathoners, 10K, 5K and 1 mile
Online Registration:	https://salmonjam.org/ak-salmon-runs/#registration
Packet Pickup Info:	Bidarki Recreation Center, 2nd and Council Streets in Cordova, AK
Marathon Ratings:	Course Scenery/Beauty/Interest: Good for First Timers: Crowd Support: Course Speed:

Runner Reviews (11)

Course 4.9

Organization 4.5

Spectators 3.6

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Number of comments: 11 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 > ]

J. B. from VT, USA (7/15/2019) "A gem of a little race in AK" (about: 2019) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 RG's comments from 2017 were spot on, and could have described the 2019 race exactly. I heeded the warning and bought bear spray and a bell, as I was concerned about bears, especially for those first 13 miles way out there when there were only about 30+ of us spread out. I ran with a couple other runners, but we saw none. As this race grows I imagine the concerns will lessen as the sound of voices tends to make them leave the area anyway. I was the only one with spray, too, but I felt better with that insurance policy. We hiked Mt. Eyak the next day, which is an easy access trail from town, and got a great view of the area. Not many restaurants in town, but all are encouraged to be at the Salmon Jam festival the night of the race. It was where you wanted to spend your time anyway in a tiny little town like this, hanging out with locals. Yes, I could have used some protein immediately after the race but was prepared and brought my own. The race had a cheap entry fee, so it didn't feel unfair. The medal also reflected this (very simple), but that's just fine, too. It is a great place for a 50-stater to claim AK, and certainly more interesting than a race in Anchorage. Wild and remote, but not too much for those of us not prepared to run some trail race in the wilderness but wanting some of the scenery and more personalized AK experience. Hotels are not fancy and they are not cheap, but I didn't feel this was as hard to get to as anticipated b/c AK Airlines flies daily into Cordova. Still quaint, though, b/c the cruise ships can't access the town, and there are no roads in. I get the feeling that a few gatherings like this per year help keep this community alive, and although folks were extremely friendly the few days we were in their town, they seemed ready to regain their autonomy by the end of the weekend. No spectators except for a bald-eagle putting on a show. Very responsive race director Kristin. Super-friendly volunteers at EVERY station. Definitely recommended race. Now Boston certified. I'd expect this race to grow quickly so enter this one while you can.
J. T. from Rescue, CA (9/11/2018) "Scenic, well run race" (about: 2018) 1 previous marathon \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 4 Stunning scenery combined with a small well run race made this fun and worthwhile for my first marathon.
R. G. from McMinnville, OR (7/19/2017) "Great place for a running vacation" (about: 2017) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 5 Cordova and the surrounding Chucagh National Forest are a great place to visit, so when you come for this marathon, give yourself a few extra days to enjoy some hiking/fishing/etc. Just make sure you have bear spray. The course is beautiful, with 26.2 miles of great views. The first 14 or so is gravel road (which I love); the remainder is on paved road, but with some softer shoulder. Course markers count down, but they all matched well with the Garmin. The course is advertised as flat and seems that way when you drive it, but there are some subtle, gradual hills (Garmin recorded 850 feet of elevation gain over 26.2). They drove us out to the start, where we all jumped out and found a bush (no porta-potties, but there is a USFS outhouse about five miles in). We got there a little late, so started at 7:20 instead of 7am. It was no problem because we had ideal conditions (cloudy and 55 degrees). It also worked out well for me, because it meant I had to chase down my wife who was running the half that started at 9:30. The aid stations are 4-5 miles apart, so be ready for that. Given the mild conditions that was perfect spacing; with warmer conditions one might want to take their own hydration. Course support/fans was pretty much limited to the aid stations, and the emergency vehicles making sure we didn't get attacked by bears or moose. At mile 16 I had a black furry beast run alongside in the bushes; I was relieved to see a lab when it finally jumped out of the bushes onto the road. The post-race food was sparse compared to other events (water, oranges, bananas). The swag (t-shirt, small medal, can of salmon, and tote bag) were nice. It wasn't my fastest marathon ever (though fastest of recent marathons), but mentally it went by quickly. Overall it was a great event and a nice place for a running vacation.
J. B. from Knoxville, TN (8/5/2013) "small town run with big heart" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 5 I loved running the King Salmon Marathon. It's definitely a small town race, they took us in vans up to the start where we saw moose poop and lots of fog. The weather was great, just a little misty/drizzle but no real rain. There were only 37 people who started the full marathon. They ran out of shirts at the check in due to a large number of 5k runners signing up, but they should be sending one in the mail. Pros: small race/low price, beautiful glacier in sight most of the time/lovely nature-full scenery (some people said they got bored of it since we literally ran down one road and didn't make any turns, but I liked it - I would have liked to go out and back to the see glacier closer but that's my only suggestion), excellent FRESH salmon dinner afterwards (only $15/person which is super cheap for all you can eat salmon) + cake! Cons: expensive to get out there, if you're slow the massage people are gone and there is no food (even if you're not last, there was no food because of the overwhelming # of 5k runners who ate it all) Other (I'm indifferent but just to mention, it's more of a trail marathon feel and the course is half on gravel): little support/no frills (bring a water bottle and some of your own food/snacks/gels/nutrition), you get the same medal as every other race run that day (I don't care, but others might so that's for you to decide) If you like small town races, do this and eat lots of fish! (If you need crowd or support to cheer you on... don't do this one, the stops are only every 4 miles and only water for the first 20ish miles, I don't like espresso so I didn't eat any of their gels and carried my own stuff.) The people are great in town and there are lots of cute small local shops (no chains), take the ferry and the train to see more sights. The ferry ride was one of my favorite things to do in Alaska. Unfortunately the Child's Glacier road was washed out, but online it said it would be finished by 2015 or something. Definitely would do this one again... and bring more food to eat at the end when I was through!
M. B. from Missouri (8/21/2012) "Small but perfect" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This was one of my most enjoyable marathons. Thank you to Kristin, the RD, for recommending I travel by ferry to get to Cordova. That was a treat in itself. Arrived a few days early to hike around the area and take part in the annual 'Taste of Cordova' festival. Very much enjoyed that. Be sure to visit Orca Books. A nice little shop, with coffee, and a pleasant owner. After days on end of 100 degree temperatures in Missouri, it was great to run a marathon with temps in the 50's and a light rain. The course is very flat, with 15 miles of gravel. Don't expect to see other runners or specatators other than a bald eagle, or if you're lucky a moose or bear. There are other races in conjunction with the marathon (5K, 10K and half marathon) and they all have staggered start times to get everyone to the finish line as close as possible. I liked that. Make sure to attend the post race awards ceremony and salmon dinner. It's well worth the $15. I don't have anything negative or constructive to say about this marathon. Just wish it was a little more accessible so I could run it every year! Thanks Cordova!
Jon Walk from Spring, TX (7/29/2012) "Remote, but worth it!" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Actually found this race right here on MarathonGuide.com and once all of the logistics could be worked out, I wrapped up a week long vacation - and state no. 27 - with my daughter by running this marathon. Everything's a bit more expensive, but it is a completely different experience. If you can't handle anything but Marriotts and Hiltons, this travel experience isn't for you. The race director and the community are super friendly. The first 15 miles are gravel, but as long as you survive that you have asphalt the rest of the way in. Each mile is marked accurately with miles to go counted down - a plus mentally for me. Temps were in the 50's with a little rain, but wasn't a hinderance to a decent performance. A great find of a race!
Y. F. from Texas, USA (9/2/2011) "A memorable race experience." (about: 2011) 2 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I brought my family to Cordova, AK, this summer as a family vacation. Of course, the main reason was for me to run this marathon, but I was glad that my kids and wife also enjoyed the concurrent Salmon Festival events in the town, including concerts, salmon cook-out, kids' education events, and 1 mile fun run/walk. Regarding the course, not much to add to what have been described in previous comments. The gravel road in the first half was indeed challenging, but the view along the course was stunningly beautiful and unforgettable. I would say those who run a 1/2 race miss a lot! This event definitely is growing; about 30 runners this year (vs. about 20 last year), and I bet there will be larger in coming years. Since it is a remote location, one can't expect much on spectators. Lastly, there is a must-learn inspiring story about the origin of this race. It is definitely worth visiting this remote town in Alaska, experiencing a small town festival, watching glaciers and wild life, hiking, and running this race, especially the full.
Matt Mancini from Douglassville, Pennsylvania (7/26/2011) "Experience of a Lifetime" (about: 2010) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This marathon was to be a very special event for me. The race was held two days before my 40th birthday. As I took up marathon running just three years ago and already looking to join the 50/50 club, the one place I couldn't wait to see was Alaska. I've heard nothing but great things about the Last Frontier but I needed to see for myself what made this place so special. I opened up the vacation by spending the weekend in Cordova, not wanting to run in any 'big' city such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau. I heard about this race through the Dead Runner's Society (DRS) and thought I check it out. First thing one should note, you cannot drive to this town from the mainland, seperated from the rest of the state by the Chugach Mountain Range, but it's a quick 1-hour flight from Anchorage. Be sure to stay at the Cordova Rose, an old barge that's landlocked that makes the best breakfast. It's so beautiful seeing the tides come in and out of the harbor throughout the day. The race course itself is something that any marathon runner, whether you're a 2:15 - 2:20 runner or 5:30 - 6:30 runner, should take the time to appreciate. Seeing the glaciers flow down through the forests and viewing the many forms of wildlife, is as breath-taking as it gets. Getting to the starting line was a treat, being a passenger on a school bus from the 70's brought back fond memories. The comradery of everyone, being there were only 21 runners in 2010 and I was fortunate enough to place 3rd, made this race extra special. Granted, the conditions weren't the greatest (high 40s and raining the whole race), I couldn't appreciate the extra caring the folks of the town gave when I crossed the finish line and was given a warm-blanket and escorted to a nice warm bus. Taking the time afterward to drive out to Child's Glacier, I was able to see the remaining 40 miles of the Copper River Scenic Byway, which ends at the Million Dollar Bridge. Watching this glacier calve will take your breath away. Thanks again Cordova for this memorable time. You're now a permanent part of me, being proud to tell the story behind my tattoo of a salmon wearing a king's throne with running shoes.
S. D. from Chattanooga, TN (12/31/2010) "flat and straight" (about: 2009) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 What a wonderful experience. In 2009, only 12 runners ran the full... and I had my first top-10 finish! It is a beautiful stretch of scenery. I wish I could go back again.
S. L. from Atlanta, Georgia (12/7/2006) "Excellent Run!" (about: 2003) 1 previous marathon \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 1 This run is perfect if you want to run your own race and see the unspoiled beauty of Alaska. This run had 9 marathon runners. We were bussed to the start line 26.2 miles down a dirt road. The race started and we ran back into town. Each runner had a follow van to keep grizzlies and overprotective mama moose from attacking you. This fact alone intrigued me enough to make this marathon my mission for the year. Got me back in pre-pregnancy shape. But the run was incredible. I passed glaciers, ponds full of ducks, geese and swans, rivers being fished by bald eagles, steaming piles of fresh bear skat and amazing blue skies. I like the smaller runs and hate having to fight my way around people to get my pace. The van had all my supplies including water and medical needs. At the conclusion of the race there were crowds, music and lots of fanfare despite the small town. That night we were treated to a grilled salmon dinner that I challenge you to top. The local fishermen (the town is full of them) had caught fresh salmon the night before. They marinated them, grilled them and fed us until we could eat no more! Plan to stay a few days and enjoy Alaska the way God intended! I would run this race again, and again, and again. Make a vacation out of it.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 > ]



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J. B. from VT, USA (7/15/2019) "A gem of a little race in AK" (about: 2019) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 RG's comments from 2017 were spot on, and could have described the 2019 race exactly. I heeded the warning and bought bear spray and a bell, as I was concerned about bears, especially for those first 13 miles way out there when there were only about 30+ of us spread out. I ran with a couple other runners, but we saw none. As this race grows I imagine the concerns will lessen as the sound of voices tends to make them leave the area anyway. I was the only one with spray, too, but I felt better with that insurance policy. We hiked Mt. Eyak the next day, which is an easy access trail from town, and got a great view of the area. Not many restaurants in town, but all are encouraged to be at the Salmon Jam festival the night of the race. It was where you wanted to spend your time anyway in a tiny little town like this, hanging out with locals. Yes, I could have used some protein immediately after the race but was prepared and brought my own. The race had a cheap entry fee, so it didn't feel unfair. The medal also reflected this (very simple), but that's just fine, too. It is a great place for a 50-stater to claim AK, and certainly more interesting than a race in Anchorage. Wild and remote, but not too much for those of us not prepared to run some trail race in the wilderness but wanting some of the scenery and more personalized AK experience. Hotels are not fancy and they are not cheap, but I didn't feel this was as hard to get to as anticipated b/c AK Airlines flies daily into Cordova. Still quaint, though, b/c the cruise ships can't access the town, and there are no roads in. I get the feeling that a few gatherings like this per year help keep this community alive, and although folks were extremely friendly the few days we were in their town, they seemed ready to regain their autonomy by the end of the weekend. No spectators except for a bald-eagle putting on a show. Very responsive race director Kristin. Super-friendly volunteers at EVERY station. Definitely recommended race. Now Boston certified. I'd expect this race to grow quickly so enter this one while you can.
J. T. from Rescue, CA (9/11/2018) "Scenic, well run race" (about: 2018) 1 previous marathon \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 4 Stunning scenery combined with a small well run race made this fun and worthwhile for my first marathon.
R. G. from McMinnville, OR (7/19/2017) "Great place for a running vacation" (about: 2017) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 5 Cordova and the surrounding Chucagh National Forest are a great place to visit, so when you come for this marathon, give yourself a few extra days to enjoy some hiking/fishing/etc. Just make sure you have bear spray. The course is beautiful, with 26.2 miles of great views. The first 14 or so is gravel road (which I love); the remainder is on paved road, but with some softer shoulder. Course markers count down, but they all matched well with the Garmin. The course is advertised as flat and seems that way when you drive it, but there are some subtle, gradual hills (Garmin recorded 850 feet of elevation gain over 26.2). They drove us out to the start, where we all jumped out and found a bush (no porta-potties, but there is a USFS outhouse about five miles in). We got there a little late, so started at 7:20 instead of 7am. It was no problem because we had ideal conditions (cloudy and 55 degrees). It also worked out well for me, because it meant I had to chase down my wife who was running the half that started at 9:30. The aid stations are 4-5 miles apart, so be ready for that. Given the mild conditions that was perfect spacing; with warmer conditions one might want to take their own hydration. Course support/fans was pretty much limited to the aid stations, and the emergency vehicles making sure we didn't get attacked by bears or moose. At mile 16 I had a black furry beast run alongside in the bushes; I was relieved to see a lab when it finally jumped out of the bushes onto the road. The post-race food was sparse compared to other events (water, oranges, bananas). The swag (t-shirt, small medal, can of salmon, and tote bag) were nice. It wasn't my fastest marathon ever (though fastest of recent marathons), but mentally it went by quickly. Overall it was a great event and a nice place for a running vacation.
J. B. from Knoxville, TN (8/5/2013) "small town run with big heart" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 5 I loved running the King Salmon Marathon. It's definitely a small town race, they took us in vans up to the start where we saw moose poop and lots of fog. The weather was great, just a little misty/drizzle but no real rain. There were only 37 people who started the full marathon. They ran out of shirts at the check in due to a large number of 5k runners signing up, but they should be sending one in the mail. Pros: small race/low price, beautiful glacier in sight most of the time/lovely nature-full scenery (some people said they got bored of it since we literally ran down one road and didn't make any turns, but I liked it - I would have liked to go out and back to the see glacier closer but that's my only suggestion), excellent FRESH salmon dinner afterwards (only $15/person which is super cheap for all you can eat salmon) + cake! Cons: expensive to get out there, if you're slow the massage people are gone and there is no food (even if you're not last, there was no food because of the overwhelming # of 5k runners who ate it all) Other (I'm indifferent but just to mention, it's more of a trail marathon feel and the course is half on gravel): little support/no frills (bring a water bottle and some of your own food/snacks/gels/nutrition), you get the same medal as every other race run that day (I don't care, but others might so that's for you to decide) If you like small town races, do this and eat lots of fish! (If you need crowd or support to cheer you on... don't do this one, the stops are only every 4 miles and only water for the first 20ish miles, I don't like espresso so I didn't eat any of their gels and carried my own stuff.) The people are great in town and there are lots of cute small local shops (no chains), take the ferry and the train to see more sights. The ferry ride was one of my favorite things to do in Alaska. Unfortunately the Child's Glacier road was washed out, but online it said it would be finished by 2015 or something. Definitely would do this one again... and bring more food to eat at the end when I was through!
M. B. from Missouri (8/21/2012) "Small but perfect" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This was one of my most enjoyable marathons. Thank you to Kristin, the RD, for recommending I travel by ferry to get to Cordova. That was a treat in itself. Arrived a few days early to hike around the area and take part in the annual 'Taste of Cordova' festival. Very much enjoyed that. Be sure to visit Orca Books. A nice little shop, with coffee, and a pleasant owner. After days on end of 100 degree temperatures in Missouri, it was great to run a marathon with temps in the 50's and a light rain. The course is very flat, with 15 miles of gravel. Don't expect to see other runners or specatators other than a bald eagle, or if you're lucky a moose or bear. There are other races in conjunction with the marathon (5K, 10K and half marathon) and they all have staggered start times to get everyone to the finish line as close as possible. I liked that. Make sure to attend the post race awards ceremony and salmon dinner. It's well worth the $15. I don't have anything negative or constructive to say about this marathon. Just wish it was a little more accessible so I could run it every year! Thanks Cordova!
Jon Walk from Spring, TX (7/29/2012) "Remote, but worth it!" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Actually found this race right here on MarathonGuide.com and once all of the logistics could be worked out, I wrapped up a week long vacation - and state no. 27 - with my daughter by running this marathon. Everything's a bit more expensive, but it is a completely different experience. If you can't handle anything but Marriotts and Hiltons, this travel experience isn't for you. The race director and the community are super friendly. The first 15 miles are gravel, but as long as you survive that you have asphalt the rest of the way in. Each mile is marked accurately with miles to go counted down - a plus mentally for me. Temps were in the 50's with a little rain, but wasn't a hinderance to a decent performance. A great find of a race!
Y. F. from Texas, USA (9/2/2011) "A memorable race experience." (about: 2011) 2 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I brought my family to Cordova, AK, this summer as a family vacation. Of course, the main reason was for me to run this marathon, but I was glad that my kids and wife also enjoyed the concurrent Salmon Festival events in the town, including concerts, salmon cook-out, kids' education events, and 1 mile fun run/walk. Regarding the course, not much to add to what have been described in previous comments. The gravel road in the first half was indeed challenging, but the view along the course was stunningly beautiful and unforgettable. I would say those who run a 1/2 race miss a lot! This event definitely is growing; about 30 runners this year (vs. about 20 last year), and I bet there will be larger in coming years. Since it is a remote location, one can't expect much on spectators. Lastly, there is a must-learn inspiring story about the origin of this race. It is definitely worth visiting this remote town in Alaska, experiencing a small town festival, watching glaciers and wild life, hiking, and running this race, especially the full.
Matt Mancini from Douglassville, Pennsylvania (7/26/2011) "Experience of a Lifetime" (about: 2010) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This marathon was to be a very special event for me. The race was held two days before my 40th birthday. As I took up marathon running just three years ago and already looking to join the 50/50 club, the one place I couldn't wait to see was Alaska. I've heard nothing but great things about the Last Frontier but I needed to see for myself what made this place so special. I opened up the vacation by spending the weekend in Cordova, not wanting to run in any 'big' city such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau. I heard about this race through the Dead Runner's Society (DRS) and thought I check it out. First thing one should note, you cannot drive to this town from the mainland, seperated from the rest of the state by the Chugach Mountain Range, but it's a quick 1-hour flight from Anchorage. Be sure to stay at the Cordova Rose, an old barge that's landlocked that makes the best breakfast. It's so beautiful seeing the tides come in and out of the harbor throughout the day. The race course itself is something that any marathon runner, whether you're a 2:15 - 2:20 runner or 5:30 - 6:30 runner, should take the time to appreciate. Seeing the glaciers flow down through the forests and viewing the many forms of wildlife, is as breath-taking as it gets. Getting to the starting line was a treat, being a passenger on a school bus from the 70's brought back fond memories. The comradery of everyone, being there were only 21 runners in 2010 and I was fortunate enough to place 3rd, made this race extra special. Granted, the conditions weren't the greatest (high 40s and raining the whole race), I couldn't appreciate the extra caring the folks of the town gave when I crossed the finish line and was given a warm-blanket and escorted to a nice warm bus. Taking the time afterward to drive out to Child's Glacier, I was able to see the remaining 40 miles of the Copper River Scenic Byway, which ends at the Million Dollar Bridge. Watching this glacier calve will take your breath away. Thanks again Cordova for this memorable time. You're now a permanent part of me, being proud to tell the story behind my tattoo of a salmon wearing a king's throne with running shoes.
S. D. from Chattanooga, TN (12/31/2010) "flat and straight" (about: 2009) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 What a wonderful experience. In 2009, only 12 runners ran the full... and I had my first top-10 finish! It is a beautiful stretch of scenery. I wish I could go back again.
S. L. from Atlanta, Georgia (12/7/2006) "Excellent Run!" (about: 2003) 1 previous marathon \| 1 King Salmon Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 1 This run is perfect if you want to run your own race and see the unspoiled beauty of Alaska. This run had 9 marathon runners. We were bussed to the start line 26.2 miles down a dirt road. The race started and we ran back into town. Each runner had a follow van to keep grizzlies and overprotective mama moose from attacking you. This fact alone intrigued me enough to make this marathon my mission for the year. Got me back in pre-pregnancy shape. But the run was incredible. I passed glaciers, ponds full of ducks, geese and swans, rivers being fished by bald eagles, steaming piles of fresh bear skat and amazing blue skies. I like the smaller runs and hate having to fight my way around people to get my pace. The van had all my supplies including water and medical needs. At the conclusion of the race there were crowds, music and lots of fanfare despite the small town. That night we were treated to a grilled salmon dinner that I challenge you to top. The local fishermen (the town is full of them) had caught fresh salmon the night before. They marinated them, grilled them and fed us until we could eat no more! Plan to stay a few days and enjoy Alaska the way God intended! I would run this race again, and again, and again. Make a vacation out of it.

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Marathon Details - King Salmon Marathon