Runners begin in the historic town of Mihla, heading directly into Hainich National Park, the source of this German race's nature-marathon character. This dual event combines the established Hainich-Lauf with the Werratalmarathon in Amt Creuzburg, Thuringia, taking place annually in May. Participants can choose between a 21 km half marathon and a 42 km marathon.
The courses traverse the Hainich World Natural Heritage area, featuring beech forests, diverse terrain, sharp ascents, and technical forest trails instead of flat road sections. The route offers vistas of the Werra Valley. Over 400 participants of all ages have competed in the various distances, including children racing in Mihla. The Hainich-Lauf represents the original event, with the Werratalmarathon introducing the full marathon option.