Avenue of the Giants Marathon
I’ve always been a runner, and haven’t spent much time on the sidelines cheering others on. This past weekend at the Avenue of the Giant’s 50th anniversary, I got the opportunity to cheer my brother-in-law on to finishing his first marathon. This accomplishment was absolutely huge! Both for Jav, as well as celebrating a decade since finishing this very same race for my first marathon. I almost preferred the race on the sidelines, but events like this have me excited to jump back in racing!
California hosts many, many, many great opportunities to run a half marathon, including Avenue of the Giants. So California may become my largest category of runs. (Of course that isn’t a bad thing as there are many things to explore on this beautiful west coast).
If you ever get the opportunity to run anywhere, choose here. Located in Northern California, this run is absolutely perfect. https://www.theave.org
Avenue of the Giants was my first (and hopefully only) full marathon. To be honest, I couldn’t have asked for a better location or weather. I think fate was in place on that day, because if the conditions weren’t as perfect as they were, I don’t know if I could have finished those 26.2 grueling miles. And yes, that many miles in my experience is definitely considered grueling. I remember by mile 21 my sister and I were throwing pebbles at the beautiful redwoods, as we spitefully yelled “stupid tree! I’m here running these terrible miles and all you’re doing is growing and photosynthesizing!” Let’s just say your mind grows weary after 4+ hours of physical activity. Best advice is train for your run!
THE RUN- Avenue of the Giants
This is a double out and back run on paved roads that is covered by redwood trees providing stable shade the whole course. Since it’s an early run, the temperature was about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but as you can see in the picture, I wore shorts and a tank top and never once remembered being cold. One of the perks of this run is how remote and beautiful the location is, but at the same time somewhat of a downfall as there is not a whole lot for lodging or food. The run is located about 5 miles from Sacramento and San Francisco.
THE SIGHTS AND FOOD
You actually can’t miss the sights of this race, as the Humboldt Redwoods surround you as you drive to and run this course. But please take the opportunity to stop and appreciate just how BIG these redwoods are! It’s an absolute amazing experience to stand underneath a forest of trees. Most of which are over 300 ft tall and over 1000 years old! As for recommendations for food and wine, uh pack a lunch! There aren’t a whole lot of options that I even remember. But if you head up highway 101 you can find a good chocolate milkshake within 30 miles or so.
Overall recommendation: This race is for you if you’re looking for a run to appreciate nature or a pretty flat course with stable weather. This may not be the best choice if you’re looking for busy city life with lots of food choices.