Back Cove Backyard Ultra
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Back Cove Backyard Ultra : Portland, ME
The Back Cove Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held at Back Cove Park in Portland, ME. The event follows the backyard ultra format: participants complete the loop once every hour and repeat the loop until only one runner remains. Each loop equals the standard 4.16 mile backyard ultra distance, composed of the Back Cove Trail plus a short add-on on the Bayside Trail. The Back Cove Trail is a 3.5 mile, non-technical, mostly flat gravel loop with a short paved bridge crossing and runs along the edge of a tidal estuary basin. Parking is free in the public lot adjacent to the start/finish on a first come, first served basis. Registration opens January 1, 2026.
Support, facilities and policies
Two aid stations are provided: an unstaffed station in Payson Park with water, basic first aid supplies, and packaged snacks; and a fully staffed station at the start/finish with water, electrolytes, packaged and prepared snacks, and basic first aid supplies. Event personnel will be present at the start/finish for the duration of the event. Participants may leave drop bags or supplies at that location, and there is space for a small tent or canopy adjacent to the start/finish. Porta potties are available in Payson Park and at the start/finish. The event does not issue refunds except for extraordinary circumstances at the organizers' discretion; a pregnancy deferral is offered. The event relies on volunteers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.