For a small town in Wisconsin, they put on a big race weekend!

It starts with a fish dinner the night before the race and ends with a beer and music festival after the race so plan on making it a weekend adventure. The expo is very minimal and mostly used for packet pick up. Don't expect a lot!

The race itself is primarily on an old railroad bed (hence the "trail" designation). This provides for a great run through the woods during peak fall color season. Even if the wind blows the leaves down, it is a pretty course. It ends in downtown Ashland by the big train with great crowds.

During the race, support and porta-potties are well stocked and spread out at good intervals. Despite the trail aspect, there are lots of people cheering you on throughout the course.

This was my first half marathon and the one that got me hooked. It is a relatively fast course as it is mostly downhill or flat. The railroad bed can be soft in some areas but they do a good job of grading it and keeping it well packed as best they can.