Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon

I ran the Half-Marathon here in June 2020 and the Marathon in June 2022. For a June marathon in the south, it is wonderful. The weather can be hit or miss, but both years we lucked out. In 2022 the temperature at the start of the marathon was 56 and perhaps 70 or 72 at the finish, though there is considerable shade about 85-90% of the course, which is out and back. It is a beautiful course, well-organized, frequent aid stations with water and gatorade, friendly and supportive volunteers, and a fairly flat course. Miles 11-13 are slightly uphill for a long, slow grade, and again from 24-26 there is a very slight but long uphill grade. Overall, however, a very quick course worthy of a PR if the weather is cool. This was my 46th marathon (first was in 1978) and I rate this very highly. It is truly a great small race in a small town: well-organized on a great course. It is a bit lonely, as the number of runners is small, so don't expect competition throughout. I was a bit disappointed that for a $100 entry the race t-shirt was a short-sleeve cotton shirt (though nice design) and for an age group award was a spartan ribbon. I'm not into swag (after 1,100 races over 50 years, swag is not a motivator for me), but at the price of entry a high-tech race shirt would have been nice, and/or some more unique awards. Overall, a great race which I highly recommend.

This marathon was wonderfully organized and all workers/volunteers were helpful and friendly. The hydration and fueling stations were PERFECT, just doesn't get any better! Everything from packet pick up to parking to the starting line was easy and smooth. The trail itself was a joy to run on: flat, shaded,soft crushed gravel surface and lovely surroundings. It just doesn't get much better than this if you are looking for a small marathon in quiet surroundings. I highly recommend it!!