The entire marathon course is encased in National Park Land, with some brief detours through the country roads and preserved history towns that connect them. The full marathon is a point to point with a small net elevation loss. The half marathon runs a short segment on the C&O Canal after leaving West Virginia across the Potomac. You then join the marathon course and run the hills of Antietam. The 5k and 10k are spectacular courses starting on German St Shepherdstown, running along the Potomac and River Road, and looping Rumsey Monument. A family friendly route great for all skill levels and athletic abilities.