Lake Tahoe Marathon weekend is my favorite weekend of the year! It was my first ever marathon in 2016, making 2019 the fourth time I ran this beautiful course. Weeks before heading to Tahoe, you’ll receive email notices from the race director (aka “nags from the ring leader”) in which you become well informed not only about the weekend events but also what’s happening in the area, such as the best spots to see the fall foliage, where to witness salmon spawning, etc. Race weekend itself is full of events starting Thursday with another marathon as well as shorter distance races and ultras. Although there are many races to choose from, each has an intimate feel. Lake Tahoe Marathon has about 200 finishers from year to year, although you may meet up with other runners from the half marathon or the ultra marathon depending on the timing. Since, the weekend consists of boutique races, the expo is quite small. In fact, it has gotten smaller over the years. But the size of the expo is canceled out by the amazing swag you receive-usually a duffle bag, long sleeved shirt, large, beautiful medal, and license plate holder! Plus, more goodies if you place in the top 25 or place in the top 3 of your age group. I usually grab some chicken and pasta the night before at Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel. But the RD will also send a list of other restaurant options. I recommend lodging at the Grand Residence (Marriott) or Timber Lodge (Marriott), both located within walking distance of the finish line and the busses to the start. In 2019, I took the bus to the start without issue. Remember to bring throwaway clothes with you as it is very chilly at the start especially if it’s windy since there’s not much to block the wind coming across the lake. There’s a bag drop and port-a-potties at the start but no timing mat. The RD shoots a gun to officially get the race underway. Once you start (did I mention the lake is at 6,200 ft elevation?) , you’ll begin to climb about 100 feet right off the bat. You’ll be running on roads, sidewalks, and bike trails. The first 8 miles are rolling hills, then the work begins. Over a mile of steep grade incline takes you to 6,800 ft before you head down into Emerald Bay. As you marvel it’s the gorgeous vistas you’ll be distracted until you climb another steep grade to mile 12.75. Reach the halfway mark and the “worst” is over! You’re now rewarded with a run down the most scenic course in the west. By mile 17 you’ll back at lake level and will run small hills just to keep it interesting until the finish. The crystal clear, blue lake water beckons your legs at the beach finish. And a fabulous finish line celebration is in full swing! Lots of refreshing drinks, beers, wine, snacks, hot dogs, granola bars, etc. Photo opts, free pictures of runners crossing the finish await, music, and awards. Aid stations on course are fully stocked every few miles, first aid tents at the halfway point, along with assistance from bike volunteers. On course photography is included with registration. Total elevation gain/loss is around 2,500 ft. With the elevation and hills I’d add about 15 minutes to your flat course, marathon time. I highly recommend this race for its beauty!