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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

Destination WorthyHidden Gem

Atmosphere

Local CommunityLow KeyBare Bones

Course

Scenic RouteExposed

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

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

mixed

Scenery

Coastal, Small Town

Surface

Dirt Trail

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details3/15

4 timing sources

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather8/10

typical high 52°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (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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