Wyoming Marathon

This race is a challenge, make no mistake about it. But it's very doable if you prepare properly. Do your research on running at high altitudes. The final 5 miles are very hard. The scenery throughout the entire course is incredible, a nice distraction that will help with the mental game. You will not regret running this race. The race director and volunteers are very nice.

This was the second marathon I've ever done (I did this one last year too) and I absolutely love it. I've been living in Wyoming for 2 years now, and coming from the east coast, the elevation took a lot of time to get used to. Thankfully, I'm able to run at Happy Jack and Vedawoo quite often, which definitely gives me an advantage. But don't be fooled, this course is one of the most difficult that I have ever experienced. Even if I did the half marathon, my legs would've been shaking by the end of it. Tough hills, crazy winds (for 6 miles when you run next to I-80) and more tough hills are what to expect during this marathon.

Beautiful course in and next to the Pole Mountain / Vedauwoo Rocks section of the Medicine Bow National Forest. It's a tough out-and-back with a lot of climbing on the return leg. Only a few dozen runners, but a lot of camaraderie. The organizers and volunteers are kind, friendly, and deliver great support along the course. The aid stations are spread out, so you definitely need a water source with you, but they're in the right places for refills. I did the 50k and would recommend it - but be sure to put in that hill and stairs training to get your quads ready. (Note: 'spectators' should really be N/A for this race. It's completely rural and not a place where huge crowds can or will gather.)