This California run through wine country accepts only 3,000 participants but claims to be an excellent course for beginning marathoners. The course is downhill from 380ft above sea level to 80 feet above sea level at the finish line. This marathon doesn’t allow headphones to be worn during the race and violators will be disqualified. It’s probably because they want you to experience the stunning green hills, views of the valley, and vineyards, but also to help open up the conversation between runners, adding to the comradery of participants.  The race has a 6-hour time limit and starts in Calistoga and finishes in Napa.