Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Well organized for a small race, course support great. Chip time the finish but not the start, not really sure why...
Watch out for bridge hills and headwinds. Gorgeous course overall!
Lots of close hotel & food options.
Course is chiefly flat, although there are a few bridge crossings; save your strength. Wind from the river between about Mile 17 and 22.5 is devastating. Well-supported.
Mile markers inconsistent. The marathon's host hotel is the Shilo Inn, which is not a good selling point (it is a dump and customer service is atrocious). The course begins and ends there.
Do not stay at Shilo Inn; there are other options within a very reasonable distance.
Great venue, flat, fast scenic course along dedicated path around the Columbia River. Very well managed marathon, much better than other smaller marathons I've run.
Can be cold at start, rarely wet, but can be breezy so work with the wind when you can.
Smooth flat course. Bridges serve as landmarks for next goal.
I just took a relaxed pace and achieved PB. No breakdowns.
Shilo Inns