Grand Valley Backyard
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Grand Valley Backyard Ultra
The Grand Valley Backyard Ultra is a last-person-standing trail running event held at the 18 Road trailhead north of Fruita, Colorado. The course is a loop of 4.167 miles (approximately 6.7056 kilometers) of mostly singletrack with some double track, no pavement, and about 500 feet of elevation gain per loop concentrated in the first half. The terrain is described as runnable and non-technical.
The race follows the standard backyard ultra format: each loop must be completed within one hour, and each new loop starts exactly one hour after the previous start. Competitors must be in the starting corral at the bell. The winner is the last person to complete a full loop; if no runner completes one more loop than everyone else, no winner is declared. Timing of loops is optional.
Race logistics emphasize self-sufficiency. The start/finish area is the only common aid station; water, Proxima C Endurance Fuel, and night-time coffee will be available but participants must bring their own cup. No personal aid is allowed while on a loop. Each runner may have up to three crew members, who may interact with the runner only in the start/finish area. No pacers, trekking poles, or dogs are permitted on the course. Competitors are allotted a 10x10 area near the start/finish for crew setup. Finish mileage will be posted in UltraSignup.
Swag includes a race shirt and a custom finisher's buckle. No hot food will be provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
