This was my 29th marathon and I can safely say that it was one of the most beautiful courses I've run and further enhanced by crystal clear skies, perfect temps (low 60s) and light breezes. Yes, it is an out-and-back course, but, as anyone who has been to Juneau before knows (I had not), the scenery is worth a second (and third) look and included everything from a bald eagle soaring above my head to a great view of Mendenhall Glacier spilling into the ocean.

For a destination marathon, this ranks right up there with the Mount Desert Island (ME) Marathon but on a smaller scale. Aid stops were well-placed, volunteers were enthusiastic and with only 40 marathoners (about 100 half-marathoners), you're not lost in the shuffle.

It's not easy to get to Juneau for those of us who live in the Lower 48, but nevertheless very much worth it and, as a previous comment noted, it is a tremendous value for the entry fee (great BBQ lunch, nice looking medal and nice awards).

Thanks for an excellent race!

1. The course: Beautiful vistas of ocean, glaciers, bald eagles, salmon and the best of nature (I saw a bear in 2002) along a rolling nearly deserted paved highway (13 miles out and then back).

2. The water stops: Every 2.5 miles, with water and Powerade at all stations, and two with Gu, but all with happy, supportive people.

3. The people: Bob and the running club members who man the race are very friendly and helpful.

4. The other events: Pasta dinner Friday night, barbecue immediately after race and a pizza party Saturday night.

5. The weather: Pleasantly cool and overcast (in August!)

Only 33 marathoners and 93 half-marathoners lucked into this great weekend.

Runners from local running club added the perfect spice and friendliness to give the pasta dinner added flavor. The volunteers were very helpful and friendly at water stops and throughout the race. One lady volunteer even stopped to take my empty GU wrapper (thanks). Thinking about the burgers on the grill probably added a few seconds to our marathon times. I know it takes a big running family to make a marathon successful. The only suggestion would be that since there are only two age groups (young and old) in the marathon, to make each one 5 deep. Some of us traveled approximately 7,000 miles round trip to be so close, yet so far away, from placing. Thanks for the opportunity of a lifetime.

It is a neat little marathon, run, for the most part, on a two-lane blacktop road. Of the 26 miles, maybe 6 are beautiful, with the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. Eagles, seals, and the wildlife in this segment are glorious. However, the majority of the course is on a two-lane, blacktop road. The personnel who organize the event are first-rate. There is an excellent after-race party, as part of the marathon, which I highly recommend.

A wonderfully scenic run! And even though it's on an island, there is a bridge so there's no excuse not to be there!

Out and back course, moderately hilly, sea level course along highway on Douglas Island. The two-lane road was paved, with very low traffic. Forest, mountain and ocean view along route. Very clear picture of Medenhall Glacior. Early start allowed, they waited at the finish line for the last person. Food/drinks at the finish with a post-race social at night. Spectators are great considering the area and population. A person cannot drive to this marathon, it is located on an island.