This is a very tough course. I loved the challenge but just be prepared to add at least an hour to your regular marathon time. It is a small but well organized race with plenty of on-course aid stations. This is a trail-lover's course with steep hills (up to 20% grade) and unfortunately a bit too much gravel fire road. The weather was nice this year but it can get hot in the open areas. There is camping at the park where the race begins with hot showers and nice clean sites. Post-race had plenty of refreshments and snacks. If you run the 1/2, it will be a long wait for the awards ceremony, but the park setting at the finish is nice place to hang out. I'll be coming back for more!

This is an extremely tough marathon, with Georgia heat and plenty of hills. It is a small, but intimate race that is mostly on trails and mountain roads. It's limited to 150 marathoners and 150 half marathoners, many of whom know each other from RunnersWorld and Runango forums. It's a neat event with a great race director and a small group of faithful volunteers.