2026 Susitna 100

The Susitna 100 is an ultra-distance race that takes place on February 14, 2026, in Big Lake, Alaska, approximately two hours north of Anchorage. The event is held during deep winter conditions, with temperatures typically ranging from -10°F to -25°F, and wind speeds that can increase the perceived chill. Participants will traverse a 100-mile route across remote, snow-covered terrain, including frozen rivers, lakes, swamps, and boreal forests. The course follows established snow machine trails that serve as the only viable travel corridors in this otherwise trackless landscape. The race requires participants to navigate using trail markers and maintain strict adherence to designated routes. The event emphasizes human-powered travel, with no motorized assistance allowed, and presents challenges such as extreme cold, wind exposure, and the need for self-reliance in remote areas.

What type of event is the Susitna 100?

The Susitna 100 is a mixed-terrain winter ultra event that includes foot, bike, and ski divisions. Participants must use human-powered travel methods, such as running, hiking, fat biking, or skiing, to complete the 100-mile route.

What is the format of the Susitna 100?

The Susitna 100 is a 100-mile race that takes place on snow-covered terrain, following established snow machine trails. The event is held in February, during deep winter conditions, and requires participants to navigate using trail markers. The course is remote and requires self-reliance, with no motorized assistance permitted.

What are the key features of the Susitna 100 course?

The course traverses a remote, snow-covered landscape, including frozen rivers, lakes, swamps, and boreal forests. It follows established snow machine trails that provide the only viable travel corridors across otherwise trackless terrain. The route includes crossings of the Little Susitna River and multiple frozen lakes, with checkpoints along the way. The race begins and ends at Happy Trails Kennels in Big Lake.

What are the distance and route details for the Susitna 100?

• →The event is a 100-mile race, with the course potentially varying slightly each year based on snow conditions and checkpoint availability.
• →The route starts and finishes at Happy Trails Kennels (mile 4.5 West Lakes Blvd, Big Lake).
• →The course includes sections through wooded swamps, over frozen rivers and lakes, and along snow machine trails such as the Cliff Trail, Bud Smyth Trail, Old Hunter Trail, and Willow Swamp Trail.
• →The route requires participants to navigate using trail markers and stay on designated snow trails at all times.

What are the rules for the Susitna 100?

• →Travel on plowed roads, including Ayrshire Road shoulders, is strictly prohibited. Participants must stay on marked snow trails or face disqualification.
• →No motorized assistance is permitted; all travel must be human-powered (running, hiking, fat biking, or skiing).
• →Course conditions may vary yearly based on snowpack, ice stability, and checkpoint logistics.
• →Extreme cold, wind exposure, and remote self-reliance are defining challenges of the event.

What is the expected weather for the Susitna 100 in Big Lake?

In February, Big Lake experiences deep winter conditions, with temperatures typically ranging from -10°F to -25°F. Wind speeds can increase the perceived temperature, and participants should be prepared for extreme cold and potential snowfall. The landscape is covered in snow, with open blue skies and stark white and green terrain.

What is the significance of the Susitna 100 in Alaska?

The Susitna 100 is a challenging winter ultra that tests participants' endurance and navigation skills across remote, snow-covered terrain. It is held in a region where snow machine trails serve as the only viable travel corridors, and participants must rely on trail markers and self-reliance to complete the course. The event highlights the unique challenges of winter travel in Alaska and attracts athletes seeking to test their limits in extreme conditions.

What is the route map for the Susitna 100?

A full GPS route for the Susitna 100 is available at: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/82395008. The map provides detailed information on the course, including trail markers, checkpoints, and key landmarks such as the Little Susitna River, Vera Lake, and Willow Lake. Participants can use the GPS route to plan their navigation and familiarize themselves with the course before the event.