Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
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Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
The Elm Creek Backyard Ultra is an overnight backyard-style running event held in Maple Grove, Minnesota at Elm Creek Park Reserve. The format requires runners to complete a 4.167 mile loop each hour; runners begin each loop at the top of the hour and continue until only one runner completes a loop on their own and is declared the winner.
The marked course starts and finishes at the Bluebird Picnic area, follows the lake trail around Mud Lake, and records about 296 feet of elevation gain and loss. The direction of the loop alternates between clockwise and counterclockwise every few hours. Aid or pacing is not allowed while a runner is on the course; runners may receive support from their crew only between loops. Crews are permitted but not required, and a limited space next to the start and finish is available for a chair, cooler, and other small items. A designated picnic area near the start and finish can accommodate tents.
Race procedures include audible signals before each loop and a bell to signal the start. Runners must be present in the starting corral when a loop begins to continue. The event is listed as a Bronze Ticket qualifier for the Bigs Backyard Team Championships in fall 2028 and anticipates a field capacity near 190 runners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
