This is a great course for a first marathon attempt. There are so many beautiful views along this course to help you forget about the face that you're going 26.2 for the first time. There is parking at this race around the Anther Hill Village area (start & finish), but it is rather limited. I bought a ticket for the race shuttle, which picks up & brings you back to one of the three race sponsored hotels. You don't have to stay at one of these hotels to use the shuttle. The first half of the course is paved, while the second half is a mix of paved and dirt roads. The highlight of the race is getting to run past the front door of the Biltmore House (a selfie with one of the lions is a must). All of the aid stations are manned by different groups from around the Asheville area, who all do an amazing job supporting the runners. The expo is top notch. If you're from out of town and forgot anything, you'll be able to buy it there. The swag from this race is my favorite. You get a gender specific Mizuno tech shirt, a wooden laser engraved medal, and a really nice warm fleece blanket when you finish.

My tip: The first sevenish miles have steady inclines and two tall hills-take it easy in this section. You'll know you'd made it out it when you get to the House. Then, you get to run downhill and flats for the next few miles.