AKtive's Backyard Ultra

Black Wolf Backyard Ultra

Black Wolf Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held at Government Peak Recreation Area near Hatcher Pass in Palmer, Alaska. The course is a 4.167 mile (6706 meter) loop on single track and ski trails with about 500 feet of elevation gain and loss per loop. Runners complete as many hourly loops as they can; the last person to complete a loop is the winner and all other finishers are recorded as DNF.

The event follows standard Backyard Ultra rules. Each loop must be started on the bell and finished within the hour to count. Competitors may not receive outside aid or crew assistance while on a loop, and noncompetitors are not allowed on course. Artificial aids such as trekking poles are not permitted. Water and a limited supply of prepackaged food items are available at the start/finish area. Day and night loops use the same course; headlamps are recommended for overnight hours. Trails are marked but may be bordered by thick vegetation; participants should be prepared for wildlife and consider carrying bear deterrents. One small creek crossing uses stepping stones and shoes may become wet.

The race field is capped at 75 participants. Registration opens January 1, 2026 at 6:00 AM and closes July 4 at 11:59 PM AK. No refunds, deferrals, or transfers are offered. A run of at least 24 loops makes a runner eligible for the at-large list for Big’s Backyard. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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