This was a tough and beautiful course. It's a very small field, with fewer than 300 finishers, I believe. There were times on the course that nobody was within 100 yards of me. The scenery easily rivals Big Sur and I thought the course was more challenging. The organization was great and the infrastructure in place was good, but they may have trouble in the future if the race continues to grow. The volunteers were great. The fans on the course were few and far between, but supportive nonetheless. I would highly recommend the race - and the Grand Canyon, too.

About 50% trail and 50% pavement. Small group of runners so it's fun to see your name near the top. Too many cars on the trail kicking up dust, which left me with a cough afterwards. Still, the scenery was gorgeous and I'd do it again. Not much food at the end.

I live close to Sedona so I am fortunate to experience red rock fever every day. I still can't put into words how beautiful the course is! I can't imagine how I would feel visiting for the first time and running through the Sedona red rocks.

As beautiful as it was I have to admit that it was a tough course with numerous hills (some were very steep!) If I didn't run hills everyday I would have been miserble. I ran the 1/2 marathon and was happy about the decision as I was running the last mile of the race which was mostly uphill.

As far as organization: I thought it was great for a small marathon! I have run numerous small and large 1/2 and full marathons and this ranks right up there with the best. It started at the high school. I arrived before the sun was up. Volunteers were helping with parking and the starting area was well lit with lots of stuff going on.

There were not many spectators on the out and back course, but with views like that who cares!

Will definately do this race annually!

I should have known when my ears popped as I drove to Sedona that this was going to be a tough race! The course was extremely difficult, although pretty. It was a small field, so there was plenty of time to do the zen thing! Sedona is a pretty town and the amenities (housing, food) were very affordable.