The race starts at Veterans Memorial Park and runs west, following a circle around Atchison's pedestrian mall and downtown area. The first mile of the race is very flat. The route then heads north on 4th street. There are several beautiful homes along this route. Be cautious as this is a brick street. If you feel uncomfortable running on brick streets, feel free to use the cement sidewalk lining the street. There is a steady climb over a 1/2 mile along this street before turning east on Division for 2 blocks and heading south on 2nd street. This once again is a flat portion of the race. Towards the end of the run on 2nd Street there is a steep hill (be careful) before turning towards Veterans Memorial Park and the finish line.