Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Carry Food and Liquid - there were not many aide stations as were noted. This is for the Marathon Run.
It was in the low 40s and raining this year, which really put a damper on things
Pros - fast course (although it was a rougher surface than I expected), scenic
Cons - not many nice hotel options near the start, below average aid support (although I guess I am used to big races), only 1x spot for cheering at mile 18 (besides start/finish)
The tunnel is very dark, bring a good light/headlamp!
Beautiful Course, especially the first five mile loop along the Iron Horse Trail along Keechelus Lake. The tunnel was a unique experience and the descent was gradual and easy on the legs.
The race was small, so there was no "Expo" or packet pick-up event. Bibs were given out on race morning, which turned out okay. The return buses to the start seemed to be a logistical challenge for the race organizers. I think there were supposed to run every 20-30 mins, but I waited at least 30 mins and others were there before me for at least 15 mins.
Unless you have exceptional night vision, I would suggest carrying a bright light for the tunnel. The gravel surface in the tunnel is rutted in many places and you could easily turn an ankle if not careful. Also, it was very warm for the marathon this June, so I would suggest carrying a water bottle for the miles in-between aid stations in similar conditions. This really helped my in the later miles when everyone else was overheating.
While the gravel course was generally okay, please note you are essentially restricted to using two single track groves/lanes on the path during long stretches of the course (similar to car tires creating two hard packed lines on a dirt road). This sometimes posed a problem with oncoming mountain bike or hiker traffic as you would have to move back a forth between to the tracks and cross over the uneven center section with larger rocks.
I stayed at the Summit Inn, which made for a very short drive to the start. Even so, the Hyak Trail parking lot was full when I arrived an hour before the race start.
I have run this course twice. Its a great course. - nice gentle decline, typically a cool temp to start, very scenic. Be sure to wear shoes appropriate for rocky trails - slipped on a rock and slid on the gravel on my back at mile 12 in vaporflys.
I placed first in my age group both times I ran this race. The second time I tried 4 times to contact the organizers after never receiving an age group first place medal. No response.