Anchorage RunFest Sets Stage for August Races Marking 30 Years of Humpy's Marathon

Anchorage RunFest returns August 15-16, 2026, with the Humpy's Marathon reaching its 30th edition as the centerpiece of a weekend that includes events for every skill level.

The timing gives Anchorage athletes a clear target for summer training on city trails before the fall racing season. Organizers position the event as the main gathering for the Anchorage Running Club, drawing participants who range from first-time 5K runners to those tackling longer distances.

Selecting a Starting Race

Participants can choose from the kids' 2K fun run, the Anchorage Mile, the 5K, half marathon, full marathon, marathon relay, or the 49K ultra. The variety allows beginners to enter a shorter event while experienced runners aim for the Boston-qualifying marathon or the extended ultra that continues past the standard turnaround point.

Registration opens through the event website at anchoragerunfest.org. New runners benefit from the built-in training seminars and the pre-race pasta feed that help first-timers prepare without needing outside coaching.

Following Anchorage Courses

All races begin and end downtown before quickly moving onto the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail along Cook Inlet and segments of the Chester Creek Trail. These routes provide views of Mount Susitna and pass through wooded greenbelts rather than staying on city streets.

Aid stations staffed by local groups, music along the course, and support from area high school cross-country teams create an atmosphere that rewards steady pacing over raw speed. Jeff Galloway previously highlighted the scenery in his guide to notable running locations.

Anyone new to the distances can start with shorter training loops on the same trails to build familiarity before committing to the full weekend schedule. The source for all details is the Visit Anchorage event page at https://www.anchorage.net/events/marathons-5ks-and-races/anchorage-runfest/.