This was a fast course and very pretty with the Boise River running along you the whole time. Flooding caused a last second change in part of the course but it wasn't bad. Course aid was ok and there was more gu/gel options here then any other race I've ever been to. Race organizers need to give better directions for out of towners. Packet pickup was hard to find and there was only water and chocolate milk at the finish. Sport drink would have been nice. Also I get that it's Idaho but just having baked potatoes at the finish line is not enough. Also the return shuttle to the race hotel never showed!

This race is as advertised: a smooth, scenic and enjoyable half marathon course. From talking with other participants, a lot of people PR this one.

They aren't kidding about the cold start. Though it was pleasant enough on the valley floor, Lucky Peak in the a.m. is a wind tunnel. Next time, I'll bring my warm clothes, which they make it easy to have transported to the finishing area. The course is fast and essentially a gradual downhill from start to finish, though it flattens out somewhat once you hit the greenbelt. It's a bit crowded on the trail, particularly in the first 1/4 of the race before people fan out, but not uncomfortably so. It wasn't terribly different than larger races run on larger streets.

Not a ton of spectators, but the ones that came out were fun and appreciated. Plenty of water stops, well-equipped with volunteers, sports drinks, power bars, etc. End of race party was fun and well-stocked with plentiful food and drink options. Nice medal and dry-fit shirt. This was my 5th and favorite half marathon. I'll be back next year.

I enjoyed this fast course. The start was cold, everyone looking for a place to huddle up. Aid stations were placed regularly. Post race food was great if you finished quickly, but I heard they ran out for those toward the end.

Not a ton of spectators but the ones who are there are supportive and enthusiastic. I would prefer the race to start earlier so the temperatures aren't climbing in the 80's. Also, they used a timing mechanism that started at the gun rather than the start line; as I started nearly at the end of the pack and it took time to get moving so I was unhappy with this feature.

This was my first time running the full marathon and I noticed that the field had grown substantially since I ran the half-marathon 3 years ago. Due to the growth, they need to have different starting times for the full and the half. Since everyone funnels onto a path that accommodates 4 abreast, with virtually no room to pass, they need to have at least 30 minutes between starts so that you can hit your pace within the first mile. I saw several people fall due to the congestion, and a lot of this would be eliminated with a split start. Otherwise, the race was well run, and there was plenty of food to refuel at the end.

This was my first marathon, and I really liked the course. However, I didn't like the time it started at because halfway through the temps got into the 80's. In addition, the half starts with the full, so by the time you finish the full, there are no spectators cheering you on. And being my first full, I was a little slow. The guy at the finish line was rude, and asked if I was the last one. I already knew I did badly but I was not the last one, and it just ruined the race (I already knew I didn't do well but I just wanted to finish for the first time).

I have attended many YMCA races and I think this was by far the most organized event. The transportation to the race start was fantastic. My only negative comment would be regarding medical support. While the race has grown, the medical support has not, and this led to issues in response time. One individual in my group became severely dehydrated and was told that they did not have enough time to respond to his medical needs.

I just ran the half marathon; it was my first time on this course, but my third race. The course is gorgeous!! Perfect weather, shaded, and along a river. They need WAY more porta-potties and lots more water stations. I waited five-plus minutes for the potty around mile 4, and there wasn't another porta-potty station until the finish!! Also, the start was not well organized, as I could not find the table to get my race number - and then once I found it, I had to go somewhere else to find my name on a paper, figure out my number, and then go back. They need ballons at the packet pick up station. Details online are sparse, and no information is sent via email or mail. But overall, a good experience.

I didn't expect much going in to this race, as I have read that it is a wonderful half, but not a great full. I disagree. It is a wonderful half - but the full was also beautiful, well supported, and totally worth doing.

I loved running alongside the Boise River - it was a warm day, but the breeze off of the river was really nice. The greenbelt provided plenty of shade (there were some sunny, warm patches) and to run through a city and NOT experience traffic was a treat.

The YMCA did a great job of keeping the finisher's area stocked with food, drink, and atmosphere.

As far as small races goes, this one was great!

This is the first year I've run this race. It's very small compared to Chicago or other races... but I like that. Had great time because of the flat course. Kind of the true marathon feel for me.

The bussing to the start was very good. The start line was cold. Make sure you bring warm clothes... but the race got hot after 30 minutes after the start.

Good water stops with bars and gel. Good traffic control and very nice scenery.

The marathon split at mile 13, and it was an out-and-back after 13. I'm not very fond of out-and-backs.

I would very highly recommend this as a half.