I ran this race in 2000 and it was my 15th marathon. I knew it would be tough - the elevation profile of the course promised a very hard work. Indeed, it was my toughest run ever. My average time was 3h 30min, but in Prescott I failed to finish below 4 hours. Some sections were so steep that running turned into walking and hiking. I also learned that the energy I lost while running uphill would not be recovered when running downhill.

In summary, the race was great with just one unpleasant surprise: in 2000 the medals were awarded to the top finishers only. In my opinion, everyone who was able to cross the finish line deserved a medal. And a row of whiskey.

My comments are for the 2000 race. As described by others here, look forward to running up a mountain, down the other side, back up the mountain, and down the other side again. Remember too that this is all done above 5,000 feet elevation.

Personally I enjoyed the race for it's scenic rewards. If you are more of a social runner like myself, consider bringing a camera, because the course is beautiful. The vistas afforded at the top of the mountain, the granite boulders and the Prescott National Forest are a sight to behold.

Be aware of snakes! In 2000 a group of us were greeted by a rattlesnake crossing the road at the halfway mark (turn around point.)

Make the best of visiting historic Whiskey Row where the race finishes. There are a lot of neat little 1880s style saloons and the race finishes near the historic court house.

The most disappointing aspect of the race was that when I finished there were NO amenities left whatsoever. No bagels, sports drink, nothing. Keep in mind I ran a 5-hour marathon (in my case my slowest ever); nonetheless consider the course about an hour slower than a flat course.

My advice to the race organizing committee is to project more amenities for the slower runner, or warn us in advance that they will be limited to/or can only be guaranteed to those finishing in under a certain time.

I was also very disheartened by the T-shirt, long-sleeve with horse legs on it. Strangest T-shirt I have ever seen.

I did the full marathon last year and the half this year. Had a very positive experience both times. This isn't your typical 'flat and fast' event race: few spectators along the way (though the ones that you meet are great), and the course is tough (do some hill training beforehand, and don't expect a PR). But the runners and townspeople you meet are very friendly and spectators at the end are enthusiastic. The community seems to really support this marathon, now in its 25th year. (My only minor quibble: the medal for age-group placers in the marathon last year was fairly small; the half medal is larger. Not sure why.)
A great day of running up north!

This is a nice little marathon with some great features: a challenging out-and-back course, plentiful shade (with the exception of the last four miles on the return trip), and a nice small town atmosphere at the race finish. Water stops were faithfully, if somewhat unenthusiasticly, staffed but anyone willing to get up at six to hand out water in the middle of the course deserves hardy praise indeed. Also, the entry fee is very reasonable considering that major marathons now charge $75 plus for entry.
On the downside, there are not a lot of frills: not many spectators except at the race finish, no medal at the end.
Still, you don't choose a race like this for those sorts of things. The atmosphere on the town square at the end of the race was lively, and Prescott is a town well worth visiting. All in all, a very positive experience.

Race is centered around the small town with a large amount of community spirit. Active and friendly folks who put on a fun filled race day. The marathon course is designed for those runners who have a little 'goat blood' in them and enjoy the challenges of running up a mountain. Flat landers be aware! Being from Tucson and familiar with the terrain at Prescott I trained hard on hills and finished with a 3:48 winning my 55-59 age group. I recommend this race for those who want a good race challenge with an ancillary benefit of an improved VO 2 uptake and physiological gain. Consider it a must on your list of marathon challenges.

The small town of Prescott lures runners ready to climb a big mountain. Twice! The Whiskey Row Marathon is an out-and-back course which takes runners up, up, up, then down, down, down to the turn-around. Then (you guessed it) back up and down the same way, to the finish. The course is scenic once you leave town. Several miles near the start-finish are run on asphalt. The remainder is on fireroads. The altitude in Prescott is noticeable and the local runners are very accomplished. The race support is adequate, although, water should be carried. The race offers early start for slow runners and there is an awards presentation in the town square at the finish (I won my age group!). The race is held on Saturday and we shot up to the Grand Canyon early the next morning for a run down to Phantom Ranch and back. If you're ever in Prescott, say hello to Eddie and Judy from the UltraLadies!