Maybe my favorite half, but not for faint of heart. There will be hills. The race director clearly enjoys watching people in pain. There are three small hills in the first few miles, but nothing like what greets at mile eight. At mile eight you begin a nearly three quarter mile ascent that covers 252 vertical feet. When you finally reach to top of the winding hill, you are directed into a road side park lovingly known as "inspiration point." Luckily it is also the largest aid station. Next you descend 256 vertical feet over the next mile and a half. The finishing three miles are mostly flat and picturesque around big Glen Lake. The finishing shoot is at the same location as the start in this loop.

Rounding out the day you will find Glen Arbor to be hosting it's annual BBQ and Brew Festival. A little food, a few pints, and a dip in Lake Michigan make this race a weekend to come back for. Even if you have trouble getting up stairs for the next week.