Don’t miss this popular half marathon on one of the prettiest courses you’ll ever run!  The Ipswich Ale Half Marathon starts and finishes at beautiful Crane Beach in Ipswich, MA. Runners climb up and around the spectacular Crane Estate in the first mile - “Storming the Castle!” - before heading west on Argilla Road past open farmland, picturesque salt marshes and classic New England stone walls. The course winds through scenic neighborhoods along the Ipswich River before runners turn around and head back to Argilla Road and the final four miles to the finish line.  To celebrate your race back at the beach, enjoy traditional runner recovery food, fresh pizza, grilled hot dogs and, of course, Ipswich Ale!

The course has a total climb/ascent of 576 feet and a maximum elevation of 157 feet – which occurs in the first mile when runners “Storm the Castle” on the Crane Estate. Runners will face several smaller hills, but otherwise the course is generally rolling terrain.

The course is not certified, but it has been measured.

For your safety,  police officers, course marshals, medical personnel and volunteers will be deployed along the course. However, the roads will not be closed to traffic so it is the responsibility of all runners to be aware of road traffic at all times.

There are five water stops along the course at miles (approx) 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 11.5.  Gatorade will also be available at the 5 and10 mile water stops.

In addition to the Crane Beach restrooms, there are porta johns in the Start/Finish area and on the course at miles (approx) 4.5, 7.5 and 9.5.