I did the Leavenworth half in 2009. I'm not sure if the course is the same - but the first couple of miles are straight UP. You turn around at the top, then run back down. (I wasn't really prepared for that flippin' UP part)
I'm a walker, and this race is fairly small - so my daughter and I were somewhat alone for some of the race. We missed some markers, and went the wrong direction once.... Some of the course is pretty boring - though residential areas. But there's some beautiful parts too!
It's a charming race, if there is such a thing. Volunteers bring refreshments to the finish area, and you help yourself.
The other plus is that the volunteers are very helpful, very cheerful, and keep you going.....
Good Luck!