Homer Epic
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Event overview
The Homer Epic is a human-powered winter race in the Caribou Hills with options to ski, bike, or run. The event offers two distances:
- 50 km
- 100 km
Participants may change their mode of travel up until race start. The race is capped at 150 entrants and has a 24-hour time limit. Weather permitting, some sections will be groomed by snowcat and may be suitable for skate skiing. The event serves as a fundraiser for the Homer Cycling Club.
Route and format
Both distances start and end at McNeil Canyon Elementary School. The 50 km course is a loop to Caribou Lake and back. The 100 km course adds an out-and-back on the North Fork Hills trail to a checkpoint before returning to the 50 km loop. Elevation gain is listed as 2,409 ft for the 50 km route and 6,284 ft for the 100 km route. The course is marked, but navigation is the participant’s responsibility.
Entry, fees and refund policy
Registration opens November 1, 2025. Early registration through December 31, 2025 is priced at $135 for the 50 km and $175 for the 100 km. Registration on or after January 1, 2026 is $175 for the 50 km and $240 for the 100 km. There are no routine refunds; if the event is canceled, registered participants will be refunded 50% of their registration fee, with the remainder used for event expenses.
Gear, safety and rules
Participants must carry required gear including a headlamp, rear flashing light, insulated water container (minimum 32 oz), food for the chosen distance, navigation (map plus compass or GPS), insulated windproof outer layers, and a fire starter. No outside assistance is allowed outside official checkpoints. The course is on remote trails, many hours from help, so self-sufficiency and preparedness are required. No e-bikes, no dogs, and no travel on adjacent groomed Nordic club trails. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.