The list of pros is short, and the list of cons is long, but that one item on the pro list outweighs everything else. This was my 6th marathon. It's a pain to get to (for this Texan, it's an all-day proposition), the organization is sketchy at best --Fig Newtons and no water wasn't my idea of great post-race refreshments -- and there's very little spectator support. However, the indescribable majesty and serenity of the redwood forest, combined with wonderfully nice, laidback people, makes it well worth the trip. I'll never forget this experience!

This was my first half-marathon and I must say the course was absolutely breathtaking. I was extremely nervous about running without crowds to cheer me on, but after my experience I can't imagine running it with crowds and noise! It was such a peaceful course and the runners and support team were absolutely amazing. The people at the waterstops were so nice and great at making sure you got what you needed (try the fresh cut oranges, they were tasty!). I absolutely hate hills and I didn't feel them once although I was worn out at the end.

My only complaint was that they didn't separate the walkers and runners at the beginning of the race so it took a few minutes to run through and find my pace. It wasn't a big deal to me as I wasn't trying to break a PR but I could see how it would frustrate some.

Overall - the whole experience was perfect! The staff and volunteers were extremely friendly and helpful. Everyone was very laidback - many laid in the grass and listened to music after the run. The PB&J was great after the run as well as the fresh apple juice. It is definitely not an event to miss!

Awesome.

My first marathon, mild as they go. It's now Oct. 2004 and all the runs I've done til now still don't add up to the high with A.O.T.G. 2002. It was so beautiful, but what sticks in my mind most from that run is the praise I received coming across that bridge at the finish line. The support was uncanny; the great folks there made me feel like I was the first one across the line. 'My moment of glory' and I'm sure everyone else felt the same, they were fabulous. They made all the difference in the world. Thank you so much for being there for us. I must say I haven't seen anyone run a marathon backwards since. 'Dude! Whatever floats your boat.' Thanks for the conversation, A.C. Mike from Antioch.

As many have pointed out earlier, probably the most beautiful course in the USA. It is essentially flat and very fast - ideal for a PR. There is even a river to ice your legs after the race. However, there are very few aid stations. Only about 10 (compared to 26 in many other races). They are also poorly manned. No gels either. Essentially do not plan on a PR unless you have your relatives and friends posted along the course with fluids, or you normally run with your own fluids at the belt. This is my 19th marathon and I have learned how to run even pace. Still, completely dehydrated I collapsed with calf cramps in the 20th mile. And what I thought was the first place in the division, melted to only 3rd place by the end of the terrible last miles.

I race-walked the half-marathon and boy was it beautiful. The ups and downs of the half marathon easy on the way out and on the way in the rises seemed not has high and the lows seemed not that far down. The water stops were fantastic and the bathrooms were available. What a ride, it was a lot of fun.

My 15th, and I can say for sure probably the most beautiful marathon I have ever done. Incredible course, completely inspiring. Footing is a little rough on the initial mile, especially since the crowds make it difficult to see your feet, but overall an excellent course with a nice variation of flats, hills, sun, and especially shade.

The marathon organization could be tightened up a bit though. I never received my confirmation letter, and the whole experience was a bit informal (read the brochure, show up, figure it out when you get there). I expect that at a $10 marathon like Creeper, but not for a $60+ one. Electrolyte drinks were mixed wildly differently at the aid stations, sometimes so weak that it was practically water (tough when you can already feel salts building up on your skin), and there were no electrolyte drinks at the finish at all. Also, the food at the finish was a bit lacking, especially considering the cost of the marathon. Tofu and honey sandwiches - ooooh not for me I guess ;).

In summary, a great marathon and one that I would definitely recommend running without a doubt. Be prepared for a little bit less organization than you might expect from a marathon of such fame, relax, and enjoy probably the most beautiful marathon you will ever run.

This marathon is beautiful - and offers an early start for us slow-pokes. Scenic, relatively soft hills, and cheerful volunteers. Only one disappointment - at the 24 mile aid station (at 1:30PM+ in the sun) every volunteer had deserted their post - and I luckily found some warm drink to wash down the dust and salt on my lips. I wish that there had been someone there to say hello and hand me a glass or two of water - but I guess they got tired waiting for the stragglers!!

In contrast - the welcome at the finish line was gratefully received. This was number 9, and goes onto my list of marathons to recommend and perhaps repeat. Try to get a place to stay at one of the bed and breakfast establishments in Ferndale - it's a pretty village with well-maintained Victorian homes and nice streets for browsing.

This was my first, and it was fast in the beginnng. If you are serious about having a good result you need to get out fast and hit the first, only hill, like nothing else. It was a great, beautiful course.

The Avenue of the Giants was my first long-distance run. Therefore I have nothing to compare it with, but I had a great time! The course is an out-and-back trail (6.5 miles and back, another ~6.5 miles in another direction and back).

It had been raining heavily for a couple of days prior to race day, and luckily the rain abated in time for the race. The organizers did a great job in spite of the rain. The course was beautiful - very scenic and green; the entire half-marathon was under giant redwood trees and ran parallel to the river! Because it was in the middle of the jungle there was hardly any crowd, but the enthusiastic volunteers who cheered you all along more than compensated that. I noticed that many aid stations were missing. The finisher's medal was OK, but the T-shirt, however, was a letdown. Overall, I liked the race and I look forward to the full marathon in 2004 :).

Tip: Arrive early on race day so that you'll get some parking space on the road itself, otherwise you'll have to drive down to the river bed to park and walk back up, not the most pleasant experience if it's been raining for a while.