Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
This was my 14th marathon and by far the most scenic and beautiful stretch I've run. The organizers and volunteers are the kindest folk you'll ever meet. Everything else you need in a marathon? It's all covered without any clutter. Bathrooms and aid stations, the signage, the parking, the goodies at the finish, the T-shirts, and the wooden finisher's medallion--all simple and adequate but nothing overdone. This is a hometown, front porch type of run that will remind you that there are a lot of beautiful people in a world that houses soul-stirring, natural beauty. It's like a jog through the Garden of Eden.
It was very humid on race day and the two hills (around miles 4 & 11) are steep.
It's well-organized and small, so no need to get there super early or to fret about traffic or long lines at the restrooms, etc.
Low key and pretty area, some unexpectedly large hills.