Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
This race was well organized on a beautiful course. Everyone was kind & friendly. The race got very quiet for marathoners after we split off from the half marathoners.
There is not much crowd support on the course but the volunteers at aid stations & local law enforcement were wonderful. The last 6 miles or so of the race you may have to contend with a small amount of traffic on the road because it's not completely shut for you.
Parking & race day packet pickup were simple if you arrived early.
Great small town marathon. Only a few hundred runners. Very scenic course. Quite hilly, be prepared it's New England! Get to keep warm in HS gym before race. Race day packet pick-up available.
A hilly course and some of the hills are quite steep. Luckily most are in the first half after mile 17 it's mainly flat or downhill. Circle a lake and get a few nice views (especially around mile 18). Final few miles are on a busy road so be careful.
I stayed with friends in Maine. Not sure where to stay. Bristol seems quite small.