Norcal Backyard Ultra
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Event overview
The NorCal Backyard Ultra is scheduled for October 23 and 24, 2026 at Beals Point near Folsom Lake in Granite Bay, California. The weekend includes two events: the Last Person Standing and a 12-hour Mini Last Person Standing. Registration closes on October 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT.
Format and course
Runners repeat a roughly 4.16 mile loop each hour. For the Last Person Standing event, participants continue completing hourly laps until only one runner remains. For the Mini event, the format is the same but the event ends after 12 hours or when a participant reaches 50 miles, whichever comes first. The planned course is roughly equal parts road and smooth trail around Folsom Lake; the final route and elevation profile may change because of ongoing construction. There are no on-course aid stations. A fully stocked aid area will be located at Beals Point, and participants are assigned a nearby parking spot and may use a grassy area near the start/finish as a personal aid station.
Awards, equipment, and other details
All participants receive a NorCal Backyard Ultra quarter zip and a handcrafted wooden finisher award based on distance. Distance categories include:
- 13 miles
- 50 kilometers
- 50 miles
- 100 kilometers
- 100 miles
Runners who complete 100 miles or more receive a bronze finisher belt buckle. A cash award of $400 is listed for the Last Person Standing, and awards are listed for second place and for Last Female Standing. Equipment rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis: a 6' table for $50 or a 10'x10' tent, 6' table, and chair package for $140 (taxes not included). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
