Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Great race. The lake loop is beautiful as long as the temperature is ok. Northern Minnesota the second week of October can be off and on
Make sure to take the time to enjoy the views of the lake and the trees.
First time running this marathon and I loved it! The course is beautiful and brings you around Lake Bemidji. Check in at the center has easy to find parking, quick sign in, and on schedule busses. The crowed support is a huge help the last 4-5 miles. I like the layout of the water stations and personally didn't need to carry extra water. Overall, I loved this marathon and will do it again!
This marathon offers pacers and my 10 minute pace group did very well. Definitely get to the race 30 to 45 minutes before hand. Follow signs for parking as the parking lot is next to check-in and the shuttles to the start of the half marathon. When running the course watch out for the stretch on the north side of Lake Bemidji as you are very close to vehicle road traffic for about 2 miles. The rest of the run is on paved paths or wide shoulders. Enjoy the beginning of the race through the park. Very pretty. The last couple miles also have nice views of the lake. Lots of supporters along the route too.
Once you come into Bemidji look for the event signs. Very well done to find parking.
I loved in the beginning when they had massages at the end for free! I do miss that portion - otherwise, overall my favorite race.
This was my 10th state in my quest for all 50, it is definitely worth the trip! Very well organized, easy packet pick up (they offer race day pick up which is nice). The race doesn't start until 9:00 am which might turn some people off, but I loved it, it's not quite so cold at the start and you actually have time to enjoy breakfast at the hotel. The fall colors were at their peak and the view of the lake was gorgeous! The volunteers were helpful and encouraging, water stops were well spaced and organized. The shirt has a great design and actually fits, and the medal is one of my favorites!
The course is mostly flat on bike trails with a nice loop through downtown, and a few small rolling hills after the halfway point to keep things interesting.
We stayed at the Country Inn and Suites located right at the start/finish line. There are less expensive hotels around town but I felt it was worth it for the convenience. We enjoyed dinner at JJ's Dockside Restaurant (located in the hotel) the night before the race, and had a post race meal and pint at Brigid's Cross Irish Pub. Located a little over a mile from the hotel, it is actually along the race route, and a nice walk to stretch your legs after the race. This year The Bemidji State Beavers men's hockey team was playing at home Saturday night, if you wore your medal to the box office you could get discounted tickets. We took advantage of this offer and really enjoyed the game, they honored the runners during intermission. Overall, this was a really fun weekend getaway, worth the 11 hour drive. I would recommend it to anyone trying for 50 states!
I ran this its first year. I understand there's been a slight course change, but knowing the area, I'm sure it's just as smooth of a course as before. Great support. Beautiful course. Not rolling "hills" but more little bumps. Highly recommend.
Prepare for a little breeze off the lake on the 1st portion, as well as a bit on NW corner of lake. Perfect running temp 1st yr.
Lots of mom-n-pop motels in the area worth checking out for low rates, since most runners only crash there a few hours before anyway.