Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
The Elm Creek Backyard Ultra takes place on April 24, 2026 at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, MN. The event follows the backyard ultra format: runners complete a loop every hour for as long as they can. Each loop is 4.167 miles long. Registration opens on September 1, 2025 and will close when capacity is reached; the event anticipates a capacity of 190 runners.
Format and rules
Each loop must be started at the top of the hour. A bell signals the start of each loop and whistles are used as countdown signals before each loop. Runners may not receive aid or pacing while on the course; between loops runners may be supported by their crew. Crews are permitted but not required. Overnight, park gates will be locked so crews may leave but not return until dawn. Runners must be standing in the starting corral when a loop starts or they cannot continue.
If only one runner remains, that runner must complete another full loop on their own to be declared the last runner standing. If the final runner fails to complete that loop in the time allowed, there will be no official finishers. Total distance for each participant will be recorded even if they do not finish.
Course and logistics
The course starts and finishes at the Bluebird Picnic area on the south side of the park, follows the lake trail and circles Mud Lake, and has about 296 feet of elevation gain and loss. The loop direction will rotate between clockwise and counterclockwise every few hours. There is space near the start/finish for chairs and a designated picnic area for tents about 50-100 yards away. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
