Black Hills Backyard Ultra
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Event Overview
The Black Hills Backyard Ultra is a "last runner standing" style event held at the Big Hill trailhead near Spearfish, South Dakota. Organized by the Black Hills Runner's Club, the race takes place within the Black Hills National Forest on wide, smooth trails originally developed for cross-country skiing. The course is situated at an elevation between 5,200 and 5,400 feet above sea level.
Course Details
The race follows a specific loop format to meet the standard backyard ultra distance:
- 4.167 miles: Big Hill Loop A with a 0.6-mile out-and-back section of Loop D.
The route is run in a counter-clockwise direction and features approximately 375 feet of elevation gain and loss per lap. The start and finish area serves as the high point of the course. Runners descend nearly 200 feet during the first half of the loop and climb back up during the second half.
Format and Regulations
A new loop begins every hour on the hour. To remain in the competition, participants must be inside the starting corral when the bell rings and complete each lap within the hour. The event continues until only one runner can successfully complete a solo lap.
Participants must carry all their gear for the duration of a loop; no items may be ditched on the course or tossed to crews once a lap has started. Outside aid is only permitted between loops at the designated support area. Trekking poles and pacers are prohibited.
Logistics and Environment
The trailhead has no WiFi or cellular service. Facilities at the site include vault toilets in the parking lot and portable toilets near the starting line for runners. An aid station provides hot and cold food, water, and various snacks. Limited free dispersed camping is available in the surrounding National Forest, provided it is at least half a mile from the trailhead. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
