How can a n00b train for a marathon? Is it realistic to train over the summer and run a marathon in the Fall?

I have never been a runner. I definitely have never run a marathon, haven’t even considered it until recently. I used to be totally out of shape, but I wouldn’t say that anymore. I do cardio multiple times a week and I have a decent level of endurance now.

The other day I went for a long hike and made it to the end without getting winded, and today I ran on an eliptical for 1½ hours.

So, an baby runner, with a little bit of cardio endurance, but a long way to go. How would I go about training for a marathon, and could I run one in the Fall if I start training in the summer?