I can't say enough good things about this race...the scenery was inspirational...the organization was a classic example of marathoners putting on a race for marathoners...well done down to the smallest detail. Special kudos to whoever thought to have the ice-cold Sprite and Pepsi at the finish line. I have run dozens of mega marathons that could take a lesson from this one. Well done and THANKS for an awesome experience.

Great race.

There were 69 people total who ran the full marathon! It was really low-key, and so fun! The people helping were all so friendly and there was everything you could want at all of the aid stations. You must be a motivated runner because you run a lot by yourself. It is a rough climb, and a killer heading back down, but so awesome and amazingly gorgeous! I totally recommend it. A beautiful trail and the friendliest people.

I ran this as my first marathon for the challenge of a 2,500-foot climb, and the reward of beautiful scenery. I didn't need a hat, glasses, or sunblock, as the redwoods offer plenty of shade. There were a few cars near the bottom, and some bike traffic throughout. The steeper hills were a little jarring, but fun to run down. Watch out for tree roots and ruts from bike tracks! There were not many spectators, but the SCTC volunteers at the aid stations were very attentive, and there were good snacks and a free massage waiting at the finish!

I ran the 2009 half-marathon. I started with a good pace, but slowed down after mile 3, where the incline starts. The peak was at mile 8, and there was an aid station at mile 8.5. From there, it was downhill until mile 11, and then flat from there. The uphill portion was very challenging, especially mile 7 - mile 8; the gradient is very steep and I had to walk for most of this mile.

Overall, a very good course. Running downhill was a lot of fun as a managed to pick up a fast pace. If you have a GPS, it won't work for most of the course. My pace time was also off once I hit the incline, which is expected due to the topography, but it took me a while to adjust without knowing the pace I was running.

This course gains 2500 feet in an out-and-back. Most of the run is on the Aptos Creek Fire Road, and is a beautiful setting, and well shaded. The field is sparse, so you spend a lot of time running alone, but the volunteers are exceptionally friendly. Excellent trail run on good terrain!

This was my first half marathon; what a great experience. I did feel like I was lost much of the time until I looked up and saw the orange markers (I was at the end of the pack!). The first half of the race made me a little worried, but I figured it was just as far to go back the way I came as to finish the race. Once I hit the turn-around point, I felt like a kid again running down the trails. Fun race, I'll do it again!

I ran the half marathon. Very beautiful but challenging trail run. There were absolutely no problems (no bees). The goodies at the end included 2 types of cookies, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, pretzels, bananas, and oranges. It's very much a small town race which makes it perfect in my books. I highly recommend the half marathon!

The Forest Of Nisene Marks Marathon, June 4, 2005.

The 24th Annual Forest of Nisene Marks Marathon, dedicated to Rich Erickson, the late race director, was a great success. Conditions were ideal as the small field charged up the fire road into the pristine redwood forest under a canopy of trees and cool ocean fog. The challenging course is not for those interested in a fast time or a mega-race type cattle drive. It is out and back, starting with an often brutal climb up to Santa Rosalita Ridge (the halfway point) where the runners turn around and begin the descent back to the finish. While the aid stations are adequate, it would be wise to carry water.

Race director Carol Cuminale unveiled a new design displayed on a high tech dry release long sleeved t-shirt that was well received by the runners. Finishers also received a classic poster from the 1880?s when vast sections of the forest were clear cut as well as a rugged railroad spike instead of the common finisher?s medal.

I would highly recommend this race to all those who prefer a beautiful course (albeit a tough one) in a serene setting without crowds and the accompanying hoopla. This race offers a unique marathon experience that cannot be equaled by the typical road marathon.

Mark Friedman

Georgeous largely single-track trail course in the redwoods of Nisene Marks. I have done the 1/2 marathon in '03 & '04, and plan to do it again. This review is only about the half marathon.

Very hilly course, steep uphills AND downhills, good shoes, socks and blister protection are a must. One hill around mile 6 is rather steep and many walk it. Very shaded throughout. The isolation makes it perfect for a runner who appreciates solitude. It also means that spectators are only at the start and end 1/8-mile. Volunteers for this event are very friendly, but only at the start, end and where the course leaves and goes back onto the fire trail at mile 3 and 11. In 2003, they had a folding table they hiked in with water at 8 miles, but last year there were prevented from doing so by the rangers, I forget the reason. Either way, you might appreciate your own portable supply.

I can't speak for the super-speedy, but middle-of-the-pack runners are running their own races, and people are very polite about passing.

The only warning I have is about the yellow jackets. This would not be a good choice for someone allergic to stings. It's early summer and a popular place for them; in 2003 several people I passed had been stung, and last year I was stung twice halfway through. I wish for the fees they charge the organizers that the park service would take a trained eye to nest removal in the weeks before the event.

The full marathoners get to see even more of the beautiful park. And while you start up a hill, it makes for a nice finish!