Runners follow an out-and-back course for all three races at the Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon, which starts and finishes along the southern end of Portland’s Back Cove. From there, runners in the half marathon follow the same route as the full marathon for the first few miles, which are mostly flat through the first 4 to 5 miles. The race’s only real hills occur right after runners pass the mile 5 marker, in the stretch between Portland Country Club and the Falmouth Forest Preserve.
(MORE: Maine Half Marathon event details)