Black Hills Backyard Ultra

Black Hills Backyard Ultra

Black Hills Backyard Ultra is a last-runner-standing backyard ultra held near Spearfish, South Dakota, on the Big Hill trail system (Tinton Road, FSR 134). The event uses a counter-clockwise loop that equals 4.167 miles per circuit, including a 0.6-mile out-and-back section. Each loop has about 375 ft of elevation gain and loss; the start/finish sits at the high point, with the first half of each loop descending nearly 200 feet and the second half climbing back.

The trails are wide and smooth, originally developed for cross-country skiing, which allows side-by-side running and passing. The trailhead has no WiFi or cell service; a signal requires traveling several miles back down Tinton Road toward Spearfish. Elevation on course ranges from approximately 5,200 to 5,400 ft.

Key event rules and format include repeated hourly loops, mandatory presence inside the starting corral when the bell rings for a new loop, elimination for failing to complete a loop within the hour, prohibition on trekking poles and pacers, and a restriction on receiving outside aid while a loop is in progress. Spectators must remain in the aid station area or the meadow near start/finish and may not assist during an active loop. The race director is the final authority.

An aid station at the start/finish provides hot and cold food, water, Tailwind, ice, and common ultra snacks. Free camping is available at the trailhead parking lot with vault toilet facilities. The event is hosted by the Black Hills Runner's Club, a 501(c)(3) operating under a conditional use permit from the U.S. Forest Service.

Milestone awards

• 7 laps : Ultramarathon (29.16 miles)
• 8 laps : 50k
• 12 laps : 50 miles
• 15 laps : >100k
• 24 laps : 100 miles

Pricing is listed as $92.77 ($80 plus fees) with a later tier of $133.56 ($115 plus fees). Transfers and cancellation policies are managed per the event terms. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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