Spectator Tips
Because of the many road closures necessary on the course, many locations will be hard for spectators to reach - especially by car. Here are the best places to cheer on your loved one:
- Starting Line. The starting line is located on the overpass on Redland Road, just north of Somerville Road, near the Shady Grove Metro Station. The local roads leading up to Needwood Park will have one side dedicated to vehicles and one side for runners. We advise you to not stand on public roads to cheer for the participants. The park itself will be closed to vehicular traffic while participants are proceeding in those areas.
- Aspen Hill Park. Participants will be passing through Aspen Hill Park before taking the foot bridge over Veirs Mill Road. Spectator areas in the parking lot are available. This is a great spot to see participants as they come out of the trail, grab some water, and head towards Bethesda Hill.
- Finish Line. It is recommended that spectators park at Grosvenor Metro and take the short walk down the hill on the sidewalk to the finish area. Parking is free in Metro lots on the weekends. Participants will reach the finish line on Beach Drive just before the intersection with Grosvenor Lane, adjacent to Route 355 North. There will be a complete medical station with physicians, nurses, and emergency medical personnel as well as transportation, if required.
Finally, wherever you choose to spectate, please give the race participants a clear path. As a courtesy to them, and for everyone’s safety, we ask that you pay close attention to instructions by Course Marshals and Police and please yield to race participants at all times. Above all, have fun out there! If you have fun, the participants will too!
