Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
This is a small marathon with not much swag and aide stations attended to by local high school students. Because of this, it is truly a runner's race, no fluff. The trail is paved and relatively flat, and it's an out-and-back twice for the marathoners. There was only one clock, at the start, at 13.1, and the finish. There weren't any mile markers as well, so if you are concerned about pace and such, bring your Garmin or other GPS device. Overall, I LOVED this race and am considering it again to attempt a better BQ time. Very fast course, possibly the fastest course in Maryland. The other runners and volunteers were friendly and encouraging throughout, as there aren't any places for spectators it was nice to have the comaraderie. I personally enjoyed the lack of spectators and fairly empty running path.
Bring a Garmin if you want to keep track of your miles and pace as there isn't much on the trail. It's out and back twice for marathoners. The aide stations had water and gatorade and a couple had gummy bears and cookies.
I stayed at the Super 8 which is within walking distance to the start and finish, but the hotel was not a pleasant experience. If I do this race again, I'd definitely stay in Berkley Springs instead.