Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
This is not a fast race. It is not only limited to trails for the most part, but its mid-portion contains a steep climb toward a fire tower at which you must climb 6 flights of stairs to ring a bell to mark your halfway point. But oh my gosh it is fun. The scenery is lovely, the course is very well supported, and the runners are a nice mix of hard-core and those just out to have an adventure. The lack of stress to perform inherent in this run-and-hike course make it an ideal first marathon of the year, and at this price you cannot get a better deal. Sign up!
Go out slow and enjoy yourself. If you must race it, wait until after you've rung the bell.
This is close to my home in Madison, WI. But I would say it is worth travel long to.