Take an aerial tour of the Beach to Beacon route with commentary from Press Herald staff writer Glenn Jordan.

First mile

In the first mile of the 6.2-mile course, through the woods and farm fields near Crescent Beach State Park, the race's 6,000-plus runners jockey for position, with the elite runners at the front of the pack.

Mile 1.0 to 1.5

In the Kettle Cove area, elite runners will hug the inside of the curve, but Glenn recommends staying right for the jukebox.

Mile 1.5 to 1.8

Just before Old Ocean House Road, runners can get relief from the hot sun in the "shower of power."

Mile 1.8 to 3.5

Runners re-emerge onto Route 77 at the race's halfway point and pass under a large American flag in front of Town Hall.

Mile 3.5 to 3.7

Passing through Cape Elizabeth's village center, runners take a right turn onto Shore Road.

Mile 3.7 to 4.4

Leaving Cape Elizabeth's village center behind them, runners enjoy a downhill stretch and a water break at the beginning of Shore Road.

Mile 4.4 to 5.3

Shore Road offers scenic running along Casco Bay and the Robinson Woods preserve.

Mile 5.3 to 5.8

Glenn recommends the best spots for spectators at Fort Williams.

Mile 5.8 to 6.2

Portland Head Light and Joan Benoit Samuelson give runners a boost in the home stretch.