A UNIQUE ALASKAN EXPERIENCE
These 50-mile and 50K point-to-point races traverse boreal forest trails and tundra ridge lines near Fairbanks, Alaska. These races start at Twin Bears Camp or Angel Rocks Trailhead and finish at Chena Hot Springs Resort. The courses are roughly a 50/50 mix of hard packed trail with good footing and technical sections, mostly along ridge lines, that will challenge even the more experienced trail runners. The 50 mile course features 12,600 feet of elevation gain and 12,000 feet of elevation loss. The 50K course features 6,400 feet in elevation gain and 6,200 feet in elevation loss.
A brief mandatory pre-race meeting will be held for both races. The 50 mile briefing will be held 30 minutes prior to the 5 a.m. race start at the Twin Bears Camp located at Mile 30 Chena Hot Springs Road. The 50K briefing will be held 30 minutes prior to the 9 a.m. race start time at the Angel Rocks Trailhead located at Mile 49 Chena Hot Springs Road. Participants in both races will be familiarized with the race course, the hazards on the course, race rules and cutoff time, recreation area rules, trail etiquette, the safety plan, and any other details necessary for a safe and successful event.
CUT-OFF TIME
Runners in both races must depart Angel Rocks Trailhead by 6:30 p.m. race day. For the 50 mile distance this allows for approximately 19 minute per mile average pace (over an 8 hour marathon pace) for racers. All racers departing the Angel Rocks Trailhead by 6:30 p.m. race day will be allowed to finish.
QUALIFYING RACE
The Angel Creek 50 Miler is a difficult course that may challenge even the most experienced ultra runner. For this reason 50 mile racers must have completed any foot race of marathon distance or longer (virtual races are acceptable) within the past two years prior to registering for the race. It is highly recommended, though not a requirement, that racers have completed a trail run of at least half-marathon distance or longer within the past two years. There is no qualifying race for the 50K race.
REQUIRED GEAR
Runners in both racers are required to carry gear necessary for a safe and successful race. Runners must have with them at all times throughout the race the required items listed below. Please note that this is a minimum requirement and not at all a recommendation. Racers should equipment themselves based on their personal experience level and weather conditions the day of the race with the gear they believe will be necessary to be self sufficient while on the course. The required gear is listed below:
- A water bottle or hydration bladder that can hold at least 16 ounces and
- A wind breaker or rain jacket.
WILDLIFE SAFETY
Moose, Black Bear, and Grizzly Bear are found throughout Interior Alaska including the Chena River Recreation Area. Please use caution while traveling through areas with thick brush and vegetation where visibility is limited and wildlife may be surprised by your presence. Make noise while traveling through these areas and travel in groups if possible. If moose are encountered back away slowly and provide a path for the moose to escape. Moose are known for erratic behavior if they feel cornered or trapped. If a black bear or grizzly bear is encountered do not run away. Stand your ground and talk calmly to the bear. While carrying bear spray is recommended, it is not required. If you do decide to carry bear spray please be safe and familiarize yourself with its operation. Please report any bear or moose sightings or encounters to race volunteers.
