Mineshaft Grinder

Kenai Mountain Turnagain Arm National Heritage Area (KMTA NHA) celebrates the mining history in Hope, Alaska by encouraging racers up Palmer Creek Road in the Mineshaft Grinder. This event is a fundraiser for the community projects and youth programming for local youth in Hope provided by the KMTA NHA. 

Participants choose between biking or running in the Gold, Silver, or Quartz Grinders.

The Gold Grinder is an uphill-only bike race for riders to grind up 1900’ over 11 miles to the end of Palmer Creek Road. The Silver Grinder is a 1/2 Marathon to the Nearhouse Mine Trail on Palmer Creek Road and back to Hope School.The Quartz Grinder is an 8.5-mile round-trip run to the top of the switchbacks on Palmer Creek Road and back to the Hope School.

COST: 

Early Bird Pricing Through June 7th:
    • Gold Grinder: $50 
    • Silver Grinder: $50 
    • Quartz Grinder: $40 

Pricing June 8th – July 20th:
    • Gold Grinder: $60 
    • Silver Grinder: $60 
    • Quartz Grinder: $50 

Pricing July 21st – August 7th
    • Gold Grinder: $70 
    • Silver Grinder: $70 
    • Quartz Grinder: $60 

Day of Race Registration (8am-9am) – August 10th 
    • Gold Grinder: $90 
    • Silver Grinder: $90 
    • Quartz Grinder: $80 

This is a non-refundable race. Bib transfers are allowed. 

This race is under permit with Chugach National Forest Service.

Please reach out to race director Rachel Blakeslee at [email protected] with any questions.