Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Loved this race. You have mountain views without it being a super hilly course. There were a couple of steep but short hills, then some longer shallow hills. It's fairly accessible for spectators, and there were more spectators than I expected, especially in a couple of key spots. There's a bit of a long slow grind of a hill in the back end, but It's not bad and I had my PR. Water stops were well staffed, nice medal, and a great finish area with lots of options if you like to have a drink/meal immediately afterwards.
Drive the back half of the course the day before if you can so that you know how to pace the last few miles.
I really enjoyed this marathon. It's now known as Whitefish Marathon and it starts in the small town of Whitefish. There were plenty of aid stations throughout the course, and the scenery is fantastic.
The first half of the marathon is run alongside the 1/2 marathoners along a slightly rolling (but mainly flat) loop. Back at downtown Whitefish, the full marathoners continue on into a hillier section (running above a lake and up toward the ski resort). The elevation gain isn't too bad, but it's something to keep in mind as you pace yourself through the first half.
I thought the course volunteers were plentiful and very helpful. They had plenty of water, gatorade and even gels at certain stations.
The scenery is outstanding. At different points throughout the course, you have inspiring views of the snow-capped mountains.
I flew in from Philadelphia for this race. There are a good number of airbnb options as well as some nice hotels. If you're traveling to this race, I'd recommend coming in a day or two early so that you can have a chance to hike through a portion of Glacier National Park while you're there.