2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary
The Kenai River Marathon offers a scenic Alaskan journey through a playground of natural beauty.
Race Date
Sep 27, 2026
Location
Kenai, AK
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Location
- Kenai, Alaska
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 1,213
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Kenai River Marathon invites runners to explore Alaska's stunning landscapes on a course that winds through its natural playground. This race, with its 13 editions since 2010, has become a steady fixture for those seeking an Alaskan running adventure.
Runners can expect a relatively flat course, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for a variety of runners. The typical race-day weather offers cool, crisp air, perfect for pushing the pace, though participants should be prepared for potential humidity and wind. The event, hosted by the Kenai Chamber of Commerce, draws participants from across the country, with approximately 20% of the ~94 finishers returning year after year, highlighting its loyal following.
While not a Boston Qualifier in 2026 due to road construction, the Kenai River Marathon provides a unique opportunity to experience the Kenai Peninsula. Proceeds from the race support local park and recreation development, adding a community-minded element to the event. The race offers a full marathon, half marathon, relay, and a 5K fun run, catering to different levels of participation.
Race-provided description
Welcome to the Kenai River Marathon! There is NO race day registration! Registration will open 1/1/26 and close on 9/15/26. Due to road construction, the 2026 KRM will not be a Boston Qualifier!
RACE DAY - September 27, 2026 Full, Relay & Half Marathon Start Time - 9:00am from Kenai Visitor Center 5k Fun Run Start Time - 9:30am from Kenai Visitor Center
Bib pickup times and days will be announced closer to the event. Please check the website and facebook for more information after July 2026. Race Day bib pick up will be at the Kenai Visitor Center beginning at 7:00am. Bib pick up will NOT be an option at the start line.
Please be sure to plan accordingly for the 9:00am start!
Portions of the proceeds generated from the Kenai River Marathon will go to support the development of parks and recreation in and around Kenai.
The Kenai River Marathon is hosted by the Kenai Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center in partnership with the City of Kenai, as well as many community volunteers.Event details and scheduleThere are 3 days you can get your bib. All at the Kenai Chamber of Commerce. Early Bib Pickup – Friday 09/24/2026: 12:00PM – 5:00PM Bib Pickup and Speaker – 09/26/2026: 4:30-6:30pm Race Check-in & Bib Pickup – 09/27/2026: 7:00AM – 8:30AM RACE DAY: Sunday, September 27, 2026 Full Marathon, Half Marathon, & Relay Start: 9:00 AM – Kenai Visitor Center 5K Fun Run Start: 9:30 AM – Kenai Visitor Center There is NO race day registration. Race day bib pick-up will be available at the Kenai Visitor Center starting at 7:00 AM. Please note: bib pick-up is not available at the start line. Course Details The Kenai River Marathon course is well-marked with arrows and traffic cones. The route winds through the scenic Kenai area, including paved roads and wooded trails. Community Impact Proceeds from the Kenai River Marathon support local parks and recreation efforts in the Kenai area. The Kenai River Marathon is organized by the Kenai Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center in partnership with the City of Kenai and many incredible community volunteers. For more details or to register, visit kenairivermarathon.org or call 907-283-1991. Race details are subject to change. Refunds are only available through Active if a refundable registration was chosen. Racers can defer for (1) year if unable to make the race.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Start Time
5:00 PM
Start Location
Kenai, AK, 99611
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Rural
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Quality Score
Standout6713 years running
~87 finishers a year
growing or steady
20% returning runners
2 timing sources
runners from 1 state
winner 1:27:10
typical high 50°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
39°
Afternoon (High)
50°
Cool conditions — dress in layers, perfect for fast times
0.1"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
80%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 1,213 finishers actually crossed the line across 13 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
1,213
Median time
2:06:17
Latest turnout
94
States
21
Turnout by year
2015–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
About the Organizer
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary?
The 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary is held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, starting at 5:00 PM.
Where does the 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary take place?
It takes place in Kenai, Alaska.
What distances does the 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary?
HalfRuns has finish records for 1,213 runners who have completed the 2026 Kenai River Marathon - 20th Anniversary.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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