FIRST LIGHT MARATHON
Mobile, AlabamaGet a taste of southern hospitality as you run through neighborhoods lined with gothic estates. The hand-painted, wooden finishers' medal serves as a homey memento of this mid-winter race. firstlightmarathon.com
PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND MARATHON
Craig, AlaskaRun across the third-largest island in the United States as elk, deer and bears cross your path. This marathon showcases Alaska's lush beauty at the peak of salmon season. powmarathon.org
LOST DUTCHMAN MARATHON
Apache Junction, ArizonaStart in the dark surrounded by flaming campfires, then watch the sun rise over desert mountains. Post-race breakfast burritos round out your southwestern experience. lostdutchmanmarathon.org
LITTLE ROCK MARATHON
Little Rock, ArkansasThe rolling hills in Little Rock are tough but the end of the race offers wonderful rewards: a super-sized medal and an all-you-can-eat barbecue feast. littlerockmarathon.com
BIG SUR INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
Carmel, CaliforniaBig Sur has been called both one of the most difficult and one of the most beautiful races in the world. Run along the Monterey coastline and be rewarded by the stunning views and fresh strawberries at the aid stations. bsim.org
AMERICAN DISCOVERY TRAIL MARATHON
Colorado Springs, ColoradoThere's no better place to try a trail marathon than in the heart of hik?ing country. You'll be surrounded by snowcapped peaks as you race in high altitude on a rolling, crushed-gravel path. adtmarathon.com
HARTFORD MARATHON
Hartford, ConnecticutRun through red and orange foliage at a marathon that's "green" at heart. Innovative water bubblers and bio?degradable cups help to preserve the Connecticut River course. hartfordmarathon.com
REHOBOTH BEACH MARATHON
Rehoboth Beach, DelawareDiscover the Delaware shore with this charming, small-town marathon. After you race along the beach, you'll be greeted by a heated tent filled with free pancakes and local microbrews. rbmarathon.com