The bataan marathon was my first marathon and it didn't disappoint. I googled hardest marathons in the United States and a mens health article came up claiming the Bataan memorial death march marathon was the hardest. The course was a mix of road/dirt/and sand a 2-3 mile uphill and 2-3 downhill it was definitely very challenging but I did enjoy running it. The feeling after completing was incredible. If you are looking for a tough marathon this is your event. Good luck!