Valley Thaw Out Races - Wasilla, Alaska - Running

The Valley Thaw Out Races is a Running race in Wasilla, Alaska consisting of a Half Marathon and 10K and 5K.

This is an out and back course that offers an option for everyone and our goal is that everyone have FUN. Generous time limits and walking is most definitely welcome! We just want lots of smiling faces out there :)



All three courses share the same start and finish line at Machetanz Elementary. There will be separate turn around points for the 5k and 10k runners. Half marathoners will continue along the course and branch off into the Hay Flats and Rabbit Slough before returning along the same route.... don't worry! There will be guidance for making the tricky turns.



Half marathoners will have the added benefit of hitting the 5k and 10k aid stations PLUS one big station that you'll encounter several times. Goodies and snacks for all! A little hilly.
But not nearly as hilly as Hatcher Pass! (if you're into that, check out our event link above.) Trust us about the hills. We think many people in 2019 were surprised that while not steep, they seem to stretch on forever. Most people think of the Flats as the area to endure on the commute to Anchorage, but it's really a beautiful place to see on foot.



As mentioned above, all three races start at Machetanz Elementary and work their way towards the highway and Fireweed Road (i.e.: to the round about). There's and initial uphill as you leave the school followed by a gentle sweeping downhill that flattens out and crosses over Wasilla Creek. From here you'll move onto the paved bike path. Just as the course starts to flatten out over the train tracks, those lucky 5k'ers get to head back after refreshing at the aid station. Everyone else...continue. Note: the Borough added a path all the way from the school to where the existing path was this past summer! Now we will be totally off the road and away from traffic and not have to worry about road crossings at the end!



The course then continues a long but gradual climb to the round-about at Trunk and Fireweed. PLEASE WATCH FOR TRAFFIC and follow flagger or written instructions here! You'll make an immediate right onto Fireweed (down to the Flats) and have another longer, gentle downhill. Near the bottom of this by Matanuska Road will be the 10k turn around and aid station. Now you 10k'ers turn back and follow the same course back to the school.



Half marathoners: now your course gets interesting and maybe a little tricky. Follow the signs and remember that everything loops around exactly and all will be well. Volunteers will also be out there to make sure you're headed the right way.