Cape Blossom Marathon
The only U.S. marathon above the Arctic Circle, run on Alaskan dirt, beach, and trail.
Race Date
Aug 29, 2026
Location
Kotzebue, AK
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 29, 2026
- Location
- Kotzebue, Alaska
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Cape Blossom Half Marathon is the only U.S. marathon held above the Arctic Circle, now in its second year on the remote Iñupiaq lands of Kotzebue, Alaska. Runners traverse a flat course of dirt roads, beach, and trail along the Arctic coast, with the vast tundra and Chukchi Sea as backdrop. The elevation is virtually zero, making for a fast, if exposed, course under the midnight sun. Typical race-day temperatures hover around 45–51°F, with brisk winds off the sea.
The race is a true community affair, open to runners, hikers, and even berry pickers, with a bike category for locals. With a small field and low-key atmosphere, participants experience a genuine Alaskan celebration of the land's heritage. The event honors the Iñupiaq tradition of distance running, and the finish line offers a sense of accomplishment unrivaled by any lower-48 race. Registration is handled directly with the city, reflecting the bare-bones, grassroots spirit.
Race-provided description
This is the second year of an exciting new race in Alaska—and the only marathon in the United States held above the Arctic Circle. Participants can choose between a half marathon (13.1 miles) and a full marathon (26.2 miles), racing along a unique course that combines dirt roads, beach, and trail. The race is open to runners, hikers, beach combers, and berry pickers! There will also be a bike category for local participants. The event is hosted by the community of Kotzebue, Alaska, a remote town located off the road system on the Northwest coast, above the Arctic Circle. The Iñupiaq lands have a long tradition of distance running and spirited athletic competition. The Cape Blossom Marathon celebrates both this rich heritage and the community’s evolving relationship with the land. To register, please select the $0 option on runsignup and complete your registration by paying the City of Kotzebue directly. Call 907-442-3401 to pay or email for electronic payment. The entry fee is $100 with a 75% discount for local participants. Join the email list for updates http://eepurl.com/jkFw_2
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Start Time
2:00 PM
Start Location
946 Wanda St, Kotzebue, AK, 99752
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Coastal, Small Town
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
4 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 52°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
45°
Afternoon (High)
51°
Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable
0.2"
Precipitation
16 mph
Wind
86%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the Cape Blossom Marathon?
The Cape Blossom Marathon is held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, starting at 2:00 PM.
Where does the Cape Blossom Marathon take place?
It takes place in Kotzebue, Alaska.
What distances does the Cape Blossom Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Cape Blossom Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Cape Blossom Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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