I loved Moose's Tooth Marathon/Big Wild Life Runs. I think it has a new name this year, but hopefully they don't change anything else. To be fair, I did hear that they shorted their marathon course last year. This review is strictly for 2014 which, in my view, was flawless.

Alaska is a pretty long way away unless you live in the PNW, so let me just preface this review by saying that my husband and I made a little vacation out this one in Kachemak Bay. If you can spend some time up there, DO!

Back to the race. Sheraton Anchorage was a great spot, walking distance to start, finish, and things to do in the area (didn't rent a car but have a friend up there who was able to show me the sights outside of downtown - go blueberry picking!!). Make sure you get a slice at Moose's Tooth pizzeria and if you have the time or the weather is bad, watch a movie at Bear's Tooth pub.

Expo: Nicely done, smaller, obviously, because it's a smaller race. Got my shirt and bib then walked around Anchorage a bit more. The shirt was long-sleeve and a nice color, with very cool graphics. One of my favorites that didn't go into the make-into-a-quilt-bag.

Race: It was a little cool and drizzly but actually pretty pleasant on race day. It's a very low-key race so I just walked down to the start and talked to some fellow runners before we bunched up for the start. The course itself is nice; it had beautiful scenery and ran along pleasant paths by the coast and through some parks. There were some hills but nothing bad. The finish is back downtown at the starting area. It was a nice medal, shaped like Alaska. I ended up winning my age group and got a mug, ribbon, and engraved key chain as well.

Alaska is one of my favorite states that I've visited and run in so far. The scenery is tough to beat and there's a ton you can do if you can give yourself the time to stay and explore. The race is low-key but well-run with nice swag. If you're running all 50 states and need Alaska still, sign and up and enjoy this event to the fullest.