I just completed this race. I've ran several half marathons but this was my first TRAIL half marathon. I would definitely recommended for those wanting to try a trail race. It is a truly unique experience! How many races do you take a ferry across a Great Lake to run on a wilderness island??

The course:
If you train some on hills normally, you won't find this course too challenging. There are a couple good size hills. The part to be prepared for is the one mile that goes along the beach of Lake Superior. I had ran on sandy beaches, but I was not prepared for how SOFT this sand was - no matter how close to the water. Be prepared to slow down that mile. A hill does follow it - but I was just thrilled to be out of the sand that the hill didn't phase me! Also, IF there is rain before or during the race, be prepared for A LOT of mud! Other than the sandy beach and maneuvering around/through all the mud & puddles, I did not find the race to be that technical. There are not a lot of roots, rocks etc. It is known for being a very scenic course - unfortunately with the rain/clouds this year it was a little harder to appreciate.

Pre-race Details: For this race you take a shuttle to a ferry, and a ferry to the Island. They do have it well planned out and organized. A tip though: Be outside, in sight, ready several minutes BEFORE the scheduled time for the bus to arrive! We missed a shuttle bus twice! One shuttle due to it arriving early and being gone before the scheduled time. They don't mess around!
Also, you may have to stand in line awhile for your turn to get on the ferry for the ride over to the island. This is not a sheltered area. So, be prepared. If it's raining, you are standing in it! (Extra clothes, a trash bag, and hat saved me this year!)

Other tips/notes:
* Bring bug spray!! Due to it raining this year the bugs were actually not an issue. But, I was told that normally there can be issues with biting flies & mosquitoes.

*You are required to bring & carry a water bottle or refillable hydration system to run the race. There are two aid stations on the 1/2 marathon course where you can get a refill.
*Also, be prepared that some watches may not be able to "get location" on the island!

*While in the area I definitely recommend visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and getting some pizza at Pictured Rock Pizza in Munising! Best pizza & bread!

I have ran this 1/2 Marathon multiple times. The most recent being this year, 2018. It's a nice flat course. I got my 1/2 Marathon PR on it this past May.

It's a large, well done race. It is very organized. One of my favorite things about this race is the size! It brings added excitement to race day when you see the swarms of runners gathering and lining up in the start corrals!

Tips:
1)The start corral can get crowded due to the mass amount of people. Make sure you know what corral you are in and get to it ahead of time.
2) It can be a cool temp at the start. Bring a trash bag or old jacket that you don't mind tossing after the start. Once the race starts watch your step - lots of people will be discarding extra clothes etc. (Note: they are collected by volunteers and donated to charity)
3)Make reservations for a hotel way ahead of time! We have stayed at one close to the start line the last couple years! Pricier but worth it race day!

I completed this 1/2 marathon for the first time this year. It exceeded my expectations! It is a hilly course that runs through some beautiful neighborhoods and ends in the Neyland Stadium. If you train on some hills you will be fine. Just be prepared mentally for a hill late in the race before the finish!

The race is very well organized and the community support was superb! I was so impressed by how much the locals come out and cheer! They are so welcoming and happy to cheer you on! Many locals had their own unofficial aid stations giving out drinks and treats.

The post race food was good. My favorites were pizza and iced coffees! :)

While you are in the area visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!