Definite highlight for me was getting to run a lap at Drake Stadium where the Drake Relays are held. Gorgeous scenery. Hills never felt overwhelming - definitely doable. Didn't go through the shady parts of town (which is difficult). Finish line is right in front of the capital. Lots of runners so tons of encouragement from them. The City of Des Moines is fantastic - tons of crowds show up for the event and cheer runners on. Tons of aid stations that are well staffed and equipped. Great pacers. Highly, highly recommend. I honestly cannot say enough good things about this race. IMT does a fantastic job putting this race on and if you have the opportunity to do it - I think it is a race you will not regret. Plus I love that all clothes that are left behind on the course are donated and not just pitched out. So you saw a good number of people who wore lots of layers and shed the layers early on in the race and all those clothes get washed and donated whereas with some races they just get thrown away.