Backyard Ultra - Las Cruces
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2026 Backyard Ultra Day of the Dead Land Of Enchantment
The event is the second Day of the Dead edition of the Land of Enchantment Backyard Ultra, held on October 30, 2026, at Prehistoric Trackways National Monument in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The course uses a network of well maintained trails, mostly crushed gravel, with some elevation change and views of the Organ Mountain range.
The format is a last runner standing backyard ultra. Competitors run a loop of 4.167 miles (about 6.706 km) each hour. Laps repeat hourly until a single runner completes a lap alone within the allotted time. Runners must be inside the marked starting box when the hourly bell sounds; there are warning sounds at three, two, and one minute before the bell. Personal assistance is allowed only between laps; leaving the course is not permitted except to relieve oneself. Aid items such as trekking poles are forbidden. Slower runners must allow faster runners to pass. Runners who stop must check out with the race director.
The start area includes a marked aid station with porta potties, hydration including water and Gatorade, salty and sweet trail snacks, pickles, wraps, and coffee during late night and morning hours. The event is cupless. A camping area near the start provides room for personal crew spots, parking, and pop ups.
The field is capped at 75 participants and refunds are not allowed. All participants receive a hoodie and a Day of the Dead DNF medal. Runners who complete 24 laps receive a 100 mile buckle. Male and female overall awards and a fastest lap award are offered. A portion of registration fees will be donated to the Southern New Mexico Trail Alliance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
