Alaska Mountain Wilderness Classic

The Alaska Mountain Wilderness Classic (sometimes called the Alaska Wilderness Classic) is an adventure challenge that espouses purity of style and zero impact.

The rules are simple: start to finish with no outside support, requiring that participants carry all food and equipment; human-powered; leave no trace; and rescue is up to the individual to resolve.

The most common form of transportation is by foot and packraft, although bicycles, skis, and paragliders have been used by intrepid participants.

Beginning in 2004, participants have been required to carry satellite phones or Satellite emergency notification device like the Garmin inReach to facilitate emergency rescues.

In addition to the summer challenge, there is an even more low-key unaffiliated winter event, the Alaska Mountain Wilderness Ski Classic, which has taken place annually since 1987 with travel through the Chugach Mountains, Alaska Range, Brooks Range, and Wrangell-St. Elias.