The Equinox Marathon is the premier running event in Interior Alaska. With most of the course on trails and a challenging climb up and over Ester Dome—and up and over it again!—it is a challenging marathon that will test your running abilities and emotional fortitude. The event starts and finishes at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Beluga Field. The event features the option of a three leg relay event, as well, that is run at the same time as the marathon and covering the full course. Marathon runners will endure approximately 3,300' of vertical climb. Weather on the day of the event can be highly variable, ranging from pleasant late summer/early fall conditions to unpleasant wintery conditions. Mirroring the weather conditions, course conditions can be highly variable as well. There are nine aid stations along the course, and one at the finish line. The race is sponsored by Running Club North.