The Lake Placid 2018 marathon was a wonderful experience. Running it to cross NY off my state list, I picked a great year as the weather was flawless (sunny, mid-60s). Logistics were a breeze as we stayed at Crowne Plaza hotel which was literally right next to the marathon expo, starting and finishing point. Packet pickup couldn't have been easier...walk down hill to the expo, get race bib, walk back to hotel (haha). Communication leading up to the race was clear as well.

As for the race course itself, the first 3-4 miles take you around Mirror Lake and it is really pretty. Then it is back into town for a few miles before heading downhill past the Olympic Ski Jump area and into the back roads running along a river...which was very nice. However, once you head back into town, you have to run uphill for a good ways which is challenging...but if you are doing the marathon, you have to turn-around, and run back out of town and do it again! The positive is that you get to enjoy the scenic river / woods area again. The course ends with a steep uphill that leads back to the Olympic Speed Skating Oval area (now a track). That last hill is tough, so be forewarned.

I cannot speak to the aide stations as I carried my own hydration / gels...but I remember them being quite stocked full of drinks and food. The finishing medal was really nice, and the after party provided food was great too.

The cool thing about this marathon is you can make a family vacation out of it as Lake Placid is a beautiful area with plenty of things to do...from exploring the main street that goes through town, site-seeing the Olympic areas, to plenty of hikes / outdoor activities close by.

Highly recommended!