Sky Pilots Ouray Backyard Ultra
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Event overview
The Sky Pilots Ouray Backyard Ultra is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Fellin Park, Ouray, Colorado. The event follows the Backyard Ultra format: participants run a loop of 4.167 miles each hour. If a runner completes the loop in less than one hour they may start the next loop. The event continues hour after hour until only one runner remains; that runner must complete one more successful loop than anyone else to secure the win.
Course
The event uses an easy out-and-back course with about 140 feet of vertical change (approximately 1.3% average grade) at an altitude near 7,700 feet. Surface breakdown per lap:
- 0.50 mile asphalt running track
- 0.75 mile smooth dirt roads
- 2.9 miles Uncompahgre River Walk gravel footpath
The lap route passes a gazebo and ballfield in Fellin Park, crosses multiple small bridges, runs along Oak Street for about 0.30 miles, and reaches a turnaround point at the falls before retracing back to the start.
Logistics and amenities
A shared aid station will offer snacks, hot and cold drinks, and scheduled hot meals. Each runner receives an assigned 8 ft by 8 ft personal station; limited space is available under 20 x 40 ft commercial canopies. Overnight parking is permitted in the lot south of the start. The South Restroom is near the start/finish; the North Restroom is on the River Walk at about the 1.5 and 2.7 mile marks.
Awards and history
Awards commemorate a historic crossing of Marshall Pass. The original narrow gauge rail of the Durango and Rio Grande reached the continental divide in 1881; a spur to Ouray, now Oak Street, was added in 1887. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
