AKtive's Backyard Ultra
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Black Wolf Backyard Ultra - Palmer, AK
Black Wolf Backyard Ultra is the fifth running of this Backyard Ultra event, formerly known as AKtive’s Backyard Ultra. The race takes place at Government Peak Recreation Area in the Hatcher Pass area near Palmer, Alaska.
The course is a loop of 4.167 miles (6706 meters) over single track and ski trails with moderate elevation gain and loss of about 500 feet per loop. Day and night loops use the same route. There is one small creek crossing with stepping stones, and runners should expect the possibility of wet shoes or socks. Trails will be clear and marked, but thick vegetation can border the route and wildlife encounters are possible; participants are advised to consider bear deterrents such as spray or a whistle.
The event follows standard Backyard Ultra rules: each loop begins on the hour and must be completed within one hour to count, no late starts or outside aid during a loop, no artificial aids such as trekking poles, and winner is the last runner to complete a loop while all others are classified as DNF. Water and a limited supply of prepackaged food items will be available at the start/finish area. The field is capped at 75 participants.
Registration opens January 1, 2026 at 6:00 AM and closes July 4 at 11:59 PM AK. There are no refunds, deferrals, bib exchanges, or race transfers. Shirt sizes are guaranteed until June 7. Completing at least 24 loops makes a runner eligible for the At-Large list for Big's Backyard; the race is listed as a bronze ticket event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
