Moose Mountain Marathon

I just completed my first trail marathon here and it did not disappoint. I volunteered at an aid station in 2018 so I saw a tiny slice of the magic then and that was enough to light the fire. I was only able to run about 1/4 of the course prior to the race, but it was representative of the trail in general. As others have noted, it is a nonstop root and rock fest. The aid stations rock- massive doses of great food and positive energy. The runners along the course are great. As a slower marathoner, the faster 50 milers caught and passed me. I mingled with mid to back of the pack 100 milers. Encouragement is easy to dish out as you see people cranking on the trail. Hanging around the finish line until the 10 pm close is awesome as the last runners come in. The operation is well oiled and runs smoothly. Five stars for the course and the organization. Only 4 stars for the spectators only because you are limited in where you can catch them at/near the aid stations. What they lack in number they make up for with bonus enthusiasm! I'm definitely doing this race (or the 50/100?!) again!

This was my 18th marathon and I had never been on the Superior Hiking Trail in my life so didn't know what to expect. The terrain is difficult, very technical and unforgiving, but worth every second. This was a few hours slower than my average marathon, but not an experience you want to rush. The aid stations and volunteers were amazing, the organization is top notch and the finish line party is better than some of even the biggest marathons. Not for the easily discouraged runner, but great for anyone who wants to challenge themselves regardless of speed or pace. It is a trail race so spectators are slim between aid stations but very encouraging and energetic. Looking forward to going back!

This race has all of the organization of larger race with the intimacy of a small one. I ran the 50-miler but the 50-mile course covers the marathon course over the second half so I think it's worth reporting on. Perfect organization. Probably the best I've seen at a race of this size. Everything was absolutely on time and methodical. These folks were 100% spot on with everything they did. Awesome job folks! Now for the course. Wow! Pretty darn tough. They aren't kidding with the tagline remote, relentless, and rugged (or whatever order its presented). Definitely all 3. It'd be tough to find a race this scenic and challenging anywhere else in the midwest/central part of the US. I ran Leadville (marathon) earlier this year and I do believe this one is nearly every bit as challenging. Runners are advised to seriously study the aid station chart (excellent chart by the way!). There are looong sections of no aid so you best be prepared with a hydration bladder or carry water purifiers. Each aid station was freaking amazing though. What a fantastic set of volunteers at each one. They take care of you for sure and there's a lot of energy at each one. It made each stop very special and broke the course up nicely as well. Great job to the race officials and all volunteers. Fantastic folks!