A short but mighty adventure on Alaska’s frozen trails
Overview
Held alongside the legendary Susitna 100, the Little Su 50K offers a thrilling one-day winter challenge on packed snowmachine and dog sled trails through the Alaskan wilderness. This race is ideal for those seeking a frosty endurance experience without the full 100-mile commitment. With just a few required gear items and a beautiful looped course, it attracts winter racers of all abilities; from sprinters to those cheering on Susitna 100 participants.
Course
50K loop course starting and finishing at Happy Trails Kennels in Big Lake, AK
Follows snowmachine and dog sled trails across swamps, forest, rivers, and lake systems
Halfway checkpoint near Gunmetal Lake with water station
Terrain includes sections of the Susitna 100 course
Marked course with varied snow and weather conditions
Logistics
Swag & Medals
Entry into the Little Su 50K
Custom race shirt and finisher award
Halfway checkpoint with water
Access to the post-race celebration
Optional entry into the "Little Su 500 Club" after 10 completions
Getting There
Fly into Anchorage International Airport
Drive ~2 hours north to Big Lake, AK
From Anchorage, take North on Hwy 1 → Hwy 3 → Left on Big Lake Road (mile 52) → Right on Beaver Lake Rd → Left on West Lakes Blvd → Follow signs to Happy Trails Kennels
Free on-site parking available at race start/finish
Driving Directions
Requirements
Unknown
Policies
Race Policies
Required gear must be carried at all times
No outside assistance allowed
Racers must check in on race morning and declare division
Race rules include environmental stewardship (no littering)
Race organizers and board members receive no financial compensation
Land Acknowledgement
The Little Su 50K course winds through the ancestral lands of the Dena’ina Athabaskan people. We honor their longstanding relationship with the land and recognize the responsibility to be respectful stewards of these trails.
About Alaska Winter Wilderness Races
Alaska Winter Wilderness Races is the organizing body behind two of the most iconic and demanding cold-weather endurance events in North America: the Susitna 100 and the Little Su 50K. These human-powered races take place each February in the dramatic and unforgiving landscape around Big Lake, Alaska, inviting participants to test their limits in deep winter conditions.
Founded with a passion for adventure and a love for Alaska’s rugged backcountry, the organization offers a rare opportunity to race on snow-covered, marked trails with breathtaking views and constantly changing terrain. Participants can expect snow, ice, wind, and possibly sunshine, sometimes all in one race, as they navigate by foot, bike, or skis through pristine wilderness.
Held each year over Presidents Day Weekend, the Susitna 100 and Little Su 50K are more than races, they are immersive winter expeditions that demand grit, preparation, and a deep respect for nature. Alaska Winter Wilderness Races provides not just a course, but a full winter adventure that attracts endurance athletes from around the world. For those drawn to solitude, snow, and self-discovery, these races offer a truly unforgettable test.
Check out other Alaska Winter Wilderness Races races:
Disclaimer
We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Kåduka, but details may change. Please always confirm the latest information on the official race website. See something that needs correcting? Send us a note at [email protected]