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Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon

PalmerAlaskaUnited States

Next race

Sunday, 4 April 2027

7:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Scenic road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon draws approximately 34 finishers each April on a scenic road in Palmer, United States. One of Alaska's established spring marathons in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley with a community-focused field. The course runs through Mat-Su Valley farm roads and Palmer-area neighborhoods as winter loosens its grip. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants

Approximately 34 finishers

Weather

Cool spring

-3–3°C · humidity 60–75%

Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon is a rolling scenic road course with moderate climbs. Starts and finishes in the Palmer area on a spring thaw weekend loop. The course runs through Mat-Su Valley farm roads and Palmer-area neighborhoods as winter loosens its grip. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs.

Registration

Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon entry requirements

Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon is typically held in April. Registration opens through https://www.valleythawout.com/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.

Getting there

Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon travel

Airports closest to Palmer for flight planning and race-week travel.
Best for most flights

Anchorage (ANC)

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

66 km / 41 mi

Closest airport

Anchorage (MRI)

Merrill Field

58 km / 36 mi

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon elevation profile?
The Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon?
The Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. The Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon is a scenic road through Palmer.
What time does the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon start?
The 2027 Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 4 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon start and finish?
Starts and finishes in the Palmer area on a spring thaw weekend loop. Updated each year.
When is the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon and how do I register?
Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon is typically held in April. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon course flat?
The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon pass?
The loop tours Palmer and Mat-Su Valley roads on a certified spring marathon course.
What weather should runners expect at Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon?
Early-spring Palmer conditions with thawing trails and cool morning temperatures.

Official resources

Valley Thaw Out Races Marathon links

Websites

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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Planning guides

Related guides

Practical guides to help you plan, train for, and run this race.

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