Alaska Salmon Runs
Alaska Salmon Runs offers a scenic half-marathon through the Copper River delta.
Race Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Cordova, AK
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Location
- Cordova, Alaska
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 279
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Alaska Salmon Runs invite participants to explore the stunning Copper River delta, a landscape shaped by mountains, glaciers, and pristine waterways. These races, held annually as part of the larger Salmon Jam festival, offer a unique opportunity to experience the authentic Alaskan community of Cordova, a town deeply connected to its fishing heritage.
The courses are predominantly flat, tracing the historic route of the Copper River and Northwestern Railroad. Runners are transported by shuttle bus to the start lines, adding to the adventure. The event is more than just a race; it's a celebration of community, featuring live music, an artisan market, and family-friendly activities, all centered around the local salmon culture. The post-run Salmon BBQ lunch is a highlight, offering a chance to connect with fellow runners and locals.
Race-provided description
Our running event courses traverse the world-famous Copper River delta, a land of mountains, glaciers, and blue water rivers and lakes. For each distance event (except the One Mile), runners meet at race HQ and are driven on shuttle buses to the start line for their race. The race courses are mostly flat (we're at sea level), and follow the old Copper River and Northwestern Railroad route which led to the Kennicott copper mines. We also offer a post-run Salmon BBQ lunch, get your tickets here! Lunch includes salmon, side dishes, dessert and door prizes. We'll announce race winners and distribute medals for the top three women and men finishers for each event here (at the Pioneer Igloo on First Street). This lunch is open to everyone, bring a dish to share (for 6 - 8 people) and get in free! The Alaska Salmon Runs are part of our Salmon Jam weekend festival, full of music, Small Fry arts and education activities for kids and families, running and salmon. Visit this web site for more details on the AK Salmon Runs, including FAQs, and weekend events.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Start Time
9:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
620 Chase Ave., Cordova, AK, 99574
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Mountain
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Solid Pick428 years running
~40 finishers a year
small race — neutral
0% returning runners
6 timing sources
runners from 6 states
winner 1:39:59
typical high 61°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
51°
Afternoon (High)
61°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.3"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
88%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 279 finishers actually crossed the line across 8 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
279
Median time
2:08:51
Latest turnout
26
States
31
Turnout by year
2011–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Alaska Salmon Runs?
The Alaska Salmon Runs is held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, starting at 9:30 AM.
Where does the Alaska Salmon Runs take place?
It takes place in Cordova, Alaska.
What distances does the Alaska Salmon Runs offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 1 Miles.
Is the Alaska Salmon Runs course flat and good for a PR?
The Alaska Salmon Runs is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Alaska Salmon Runs?
HalfRuns has finish records for 279 runners who have completed the Alaska Salmon Runs.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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