[1] The race is held in mid-October, when the hardwood forests of the Minnesota River valley turn bright with color.

Although the city is known for its steep hills, the course winds around them and features only gradual climbs and downhills as it moves through many neighborhoods, two country roads and the downtown.

The marathon begins at Minnesota State University, Mankato, makes two loops through the city, and finishes on historic Front Street.

The editors noted the fall scenery, the support, and the paved trails as winning features.

[12] The race weekend begins with a sports and health exposition, which is sponsored by Scheels and is held in the Myers Field House at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

[12] After the races, there is a post-race party near the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center with live music, food and drinks.

[14][15] The marathon course starts in downtown Mankato,[16] and runs through several neighborhoods in the city, winding around quaint blocks with some cheering residents.

It also takes runners on the Red Jacket Trail, around Mount Kato, near Sibley Park, along the Blue Earth River and the Minnesota River (though it is hidden by the levy walls), through the 1890s era downtown and past the Hubbard House, and down two rural roads.

The finish is on Front Street, near the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, where several restaurants and bars are also located.

However, city leaders felt that either event might outgrow one weekend, so the race was delegated to the regional tourism office, Visit Mankato.

[23] James Sorenson graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 2005, where he ran cross country and track, and he decided to run the inaugural race.

[25] Jen Blue, a Minnesota State Mankato coach for the track and field team, won for women in 3:06:29.