Black Hills Backyard Ultra
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Black Hills Backyard Ultra : Spearfish, SD
Black Hills Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held at the Big Hill Trailhead near Spearfish, South Dakota on September 12, 2026. The event uses Big Hill Loop A with a 0.6 mile out-and-back section of Loop D to make each loop 4.167 miles, with about 375 ft of elevation gain and loss per loop. The course high point is at the start/finish; each loop descends nearly 200 feet in the first half and climbs back in the second half. Trails are described as wide and smooth, allowing side-by-side running and passing.
The format follows a last-runner-standing backyard ultra. A new loop begins each hour with warning whistles; runners must be inside the starting corral when the bell rings to start the next loop. Outside aid is allowed only between loops; no aid is permitted once a loop has started. Trekking poles and pacers are prohibited. Volunteers and photographers may be on course; spectators are asked to remain in the aid station area or meadow.
Support on site includes an aid station at the start/finish offering hot and cold food, drinks, gels, and ice. Free camping is available in the trailhead parking lot and nearby National Forest areas; facilities are limited to a vault toilet. There is no WiFi or cell service at the trailhead.
Pricing is $92.77 ($80 + fees) with a higher rate after May 31. Milestone awards are given for: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 7 loops equals an ultramarathon
- 8 loops equals a 50k
- 12 loops equals 50 miles
- 15 loops exceeds 100k
- 24 loops equals 100 miles
