I ran the express 1/2 marathon. It could not have been a more beautiful run. Even though the event was somewhat low-key (only about 100 runners), it was extremely well organized. This was easily the best race I have ever participated in (out of a few dozen). My three companions who ran the race as well would all agree.

I will likely make the trip all the way from Georgia again next year.

If you are looking to set a PR, go elsewhere. See results for justification.

Very scenic. Elevation should be noted as a factor. This is not that fast of a course - look at previous results to make your own call.

I thoroughly enjoyed the run - beautiful course, well-organized, good support. In fact, everything was great, except for this one guy (who ran the ½ btw), who kept commenting on the foliage and the fact that he trained at sea-level.

The course was very beautiful and the marathon well-organized. There were aid stations every 2 miles, as promised, with just about anything a runner would need. The pasta dinner the night before was well-worth doing but you can find other options in Susanville, which had more to offer than I expected. Ultra-runner Dean Karnazes, the pre-race speaker, was FANTASTIC. Although the trail was a little rockier in parts than I expected, the mostly flat/downhill course was nice. It was a bit chilly standing around for 30-40 minutes before the start so bring some warm clothing. (They'll provide drop bags for your stuff that you pick up at the Depot afterwards.) The weather in '05 was perfect. I would highly recommend this event!

Beautiful trail along the Susan River. Trail is well groomed and wide enough to pass (with the exception of the last 100 yards). I would suggest starting the race at 9am to avoid the cold temperatures at 8am. I will run this again in 2006.

Ran the express (1-way) half-marathon Saturday, my first. Hard to imagine a better experience, Soft surface, flat to slightly downhill-beautiful scenery (aspens changing color and evergreens by a river). I prefer not running in crowds, so the fact that there were only 66 entrants was a plus. I live at sea level, but didn't find the elevation to be a problem. Well organized. Friendly people at well-stocked aid stations. Am likely to run the full marathon next year!
P.S. Congrats Liz on winning the womens' race!!!

Marathon was great but I was not real thrilled about the way they closed the marathon and said it was full. I signed up for the half and then a week before the marathon, they reopened it and would not put the money that I spent for the half marathon towards the full.

This race is a great opportunity to run a scenic trail marathon with significant easy-grade descents. Redwood Trails did an expert job. Though the trail is wide and relatively smooth, some rocks and ruts do slow your pace a bit, as does the altitude, though I didn't feel it at the time. There were just 2 toilets along the way, but plenty of trees. No spectators, no problem. While I ran about as expected, I did hear several others say they expected to have run faster, and found the cold uncomfortable. I would recommend a little downhill training and trail running in preparation for this race, and prepare to shed layers, as it was about 35 at the start. I felt great right after this one, better than after many paved or hot half marathons. Later, though, I admit to having to hobble into the casino in Reno.

Fantastic rails-to-trails marathon. Course did not allow for spectators (the nature of a trail marathon) but the beauty of the scenery more than made up for that. Wonderfully organized, great aid stations every 2 miles, stunning scenery, well maintained trail. Being from the flatlands of TN, the altitude-adjustment was a little more than anticipated but still a great marathon, especially for a debut. Also great post-race food table with the race director busily cutting up watermelon for all the runners!