Lakefront Marathon Reviews

  Well Organized, Tough Hills

By Anonymous about 2024

Review

I ran this in 2024. It was extremely well run for a marathon of this size. Lots of pace groups, quick expo pick up, lots of aid stations, tons of volunteers.

Race Tips

I found the course to be difficult. Running uphill over the bridge and being exposed to high winds was tough.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

I liked the start area, it was close to many hotels. The marathon started right on time.

There are no corrals. You can wear extra layers in the start area, then hand them to a friend over the small fence. Spectators can line up parallel to the starting area.

  First timer

By djsmith814 about 2018

Review

This was my first marathon and it was great. I know I have no frame of reference, however, I have run many other races, so I can say this was well organized, great course, and I would absolutely run it again.

Race Tips

Mostly flat with a few inclines. Lots of downhill to start and around mile 24 onward is mostly downhill.

  Great BQ Marathon

By WWD about 2017

Review

Raced it twice both BQ. Well organized by Badgerland Striders. Gentle downhill at mile 24. Great organization for 37 years

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Stay warm inside till racetime, Great free parking and transportation

  Pretty and gentle

By CB about 2017

Review

Gentle grade, not too many turns. Well organized, great pace groups. Great small-city alternative to Chicago!

Race Tips

Can be windy the last few miles by the lake.

  

By Kimberly Farrell about 2017

Review

Pros: well organized, easy bus to the start, inside wait for the start, beautiful lake finish

Cons: some roads were had many potholes

  

By js about 2016

Review

Well-established (36 years), well-supported and organized, slightly downhill, near Lake Michigan (cooler temps)

  

By BC about 2016

  

By dj about 2015

Review

Not the fastest of courses but the north woods beauty makes up for it.

Race Tips

Be conservative for the first 1/2 of the marathon and build during the second half which is the fastest part of the course. Watch out for the 1/2 marathon walkers as they may not be watching out for you and you will catch up to them during your run.

  

By Anonymous about 2014