This is another race for those wanting something small and low-key. The course has some pretty challenging hills (out and back: 1 for half, 2 for full marathon, and even some 50K folks took off somewhere interesting) with an aid station and toilets at start/finish and turn-around, which was nice. It's mostly wide, rail-to-trail type stuff with a small section of actual roots and rocks trail, also hilly.

The best parts are that it's well organized, well marked, and filled with people out to have a good time - not necessarily *finish* in a good time. (That's not a negative comment)

There are close to zero spectators, but the out-and-back gave everybody the opportunity to greet and cheer on all of the other runners passing by on the path, which makes it that much more friendly. The finish-line spread was impressive, and included make-your-own burritos and loads of stuff people brought in to share. People were there for a friendly experience. It worked!

One (very small) caveat: The trail has regular community folks walking on it with friends, dogs, kids, etc. All were friendly and we all shared well - even though it's a race, we can still be polite. Toward the end a couple horses were on the trail, but the riders were also friendly, polite and conscientious of the runners. It sounds idyllic, but it was a good day and a good race.

Keep your expectations realistic (as with any race) and you just might enjoy yourself if you choose to run this. (No financial incentives for me for saying this!)

Not much to say about this. It's a double out-and-back on the Interurban Trail in Bellingham (unless there is a landslide like in 2006) - 27-ish miles give or take a mile. If you want to go the wrong way like Stan, no problems! Bonus points if you do a cartwheel at the finish.