This race is a fantastic trail marathon. The relaxed atmosphere created a stress-free start that made up for a confusing map. It was tough but an enjoyable challenge that lures you in during a smooth first half followed by a gritty second. The aid station volunteers were FAN-tastic and very supportive. It could have used one additional aid station after mile 20. The finish was great, and I have never seen so many other runners as engaged in cheering on their peers - it was a great community feeling. The staggered start also kept the trails uncrowded throughout the race with slower runners happy to move aside. The t-shirt was very cool (I would have preferred long-sleeve), and the medal was not bad either. I recommend doing this race next year; I will.

I cannot say enough good things about this race. The single track keeps your attention as you run through the thick woods. Beautiful scenery throughout as you run along the edge of the lake. It's mostly flat, with some rolling hills. The miles pass quickly. It's not one to do if you like a lot of fanfare, but the aid stations are all very well stocked and most have a small cheering section. Nice shirts, medals, and awards. I would highly recommend this race to anyone looking for a nice trail marathon.

I train in Umstead in Cary, which is a great warm-up for Triple Lakes. I did the half but have run ultra-distances. The weather was perfect (2008), people are friendly, cold beer is a HUGE plus and the trails were up and down and all around, like trails should be. It was marked better this year and I love how they changed it around - much better. I believe the pros outweigh the cons. On the down side: People sometimes get annoyed with other non-racers running through, or the bikers coming up behind you or in front. But most of the time you get the right a way and a smile. Sometimes the food or drinks sit in the hot sun and it doesn't make for a very good refreshment.

I love the race - it's challenging but doable, and God willing, I'll be back next year!!

This was a great trail marathon and quite challenging for a flat-lander like me. You can start early if you want. The support staff was great. The trails were marked very clearly. I would consider doing this one again, especially if it's cooler next year. This is definitely one of my favorite marathons.

This was my 1st trail marathon and I am hooked. This year, it rained and was very muddy, but I feel this made the run even better. On one hand, you do not have to be a hardcore trail runner to do this race, but on the other hand, you will keep your eyes on the ground most of the time.

I thought the aid stations were well stocked and I have never had PB&J so good. =) The pizza was great at the end. The trail was beautiful!

I never wanted this marathon to be over. And I was not really that sore afterwards... though this may be due to the walking and sliding DOWN the muddiest of hills.

If you want a fun, yet challenging trail run, do this one!

A nice run through the forest on good single-track; not too technical but constant, unrelenting hills and roots; and this year, rain and mud! Great volunteers and a nice, very well-marked trail, with prominent blazes and mile markers, although I would like to see a 13.1 (halfway) marker at all races. Typical of trail races, there are no clocks except at the finish, so wear a watch. Aid stations were adequately stocked and well-spaced, but you might want to carry a water bottle. Finishers got a nice pint beer glass with race logo. A nice technical T-shirt that says, "Road racing is for working." Huh? Misprint, it should have said, "...for wimps." Oh well.

There were enough runners so that you could occasionally pass or get passed, but not too many to make the trail crowded. Don't expect any spectator support; most of the time you will be running all by yourself through the woods.

Bottom line: an excellent trail marathon for beginning and experienced trail-runners alike.

This was my first trail marathon... and I am now hooked. I no longer enjoy beating myself into the asphalt... let's hit the woods!

Course: Natural BEAUTY... single track through some of the most scenic woods in North Carolina. The BEAST part was the constant up and down of hills on the way. While there was no single mountain or hill that I remember, it was the 7 miles (somewhere between mile 8 to 15) of constant climbing and descent that are memorable. There were plenty of things to see along the way! The only drawback was the last mile or two where we had to pass the finish area and do an out-and-back to make the milage. It was cruel.

Course support was adequate... but runners should bring their own water bottles. It seemed like maybe 5 or more miles between some aid stations. Stations were well stocked with a wide variety of gels, drinks, and goodies.

Awards: Finishers were unceremoniously given a mug.... It is hard to wear a mug around your neck! I prefer medals, or something made from the woods, maybe a painted pinecone or something. But they had nice awards for people who placed (not me).

The massage at the end was awesome... and the race-day atmosphere was perfect for this type of event.

If you are looking for a small-town trail race with enough challenge to push you but not enough to break you (like Grandfather Mt.), then this is the race for you. Also it was a good training run for the JFK Ultra.