The Equinox Marathon is one of the most challenging marathons you’re likely to find. The course begins at the Patty Center at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, follows some hilly cross-country ski trails, and climbs to the summit of Ester Dome before dropping back down to return to UAF. That’s a climb of 2,000 feet followed by a drop of 2,000 feet. The run is held every year in September on a Saturday near the Fall equinox when the local aspen and birch trees are arrayed in their fullest golden splendor. For those interested in a more modest challenge, the Equinox Relay breaks the route into three sections to be run by 3-member teams. Either way, the Equinox Marathon promises a challenging, but rewarding run.

The Equinox Marathon and Relay has its own Web site. Check it out at www.equinoxmarathon.org. You can also view the images to the right to see the course map and elevation profile. There is also an image of an original watercolor by Deborah Hayes to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Equinox Marathon in 2002.

In the words of those who’ve run it…

Equinox Interviews is a blog collecting the stories of anyone and everyone who has participated in the Equinox Marathon, including the relay and the ultra. The stories of the individuals here combine to tell the story of the Equinox. Please share yours! Go to The Interview tab on the blog for details.