Backyard Ultra - Las Cruces
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2026 Backyard Ultra Day of the Dead Land Of Enchantment
The Day of the Dead Land of Enchantment Backyard Ultra is scheduled for October 30, 2026, at the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument in Las Cruces, New Mexico. This is the second running of the Day of the Dead edition and uses a venue with a network of well maintained trails composed primarily of crushed gravel and some elevation change. The course offers scenic views of the Organ Mountain range.
The event follows the standard backyard ultra format. Competitors run a repeated lollipop-style loop of 4.167 miles each hour until only one runner remains. Runners must be in the marked starting box before each hourly bell and may receive personal assistance only between laps. The start/finish aid area will provide porta-potties, hydration (water and Gatorade), salty-sweet trail snacks, pickles, wraps, and coffee during late-night and morning hours. This is a cupless event.
The site allows a large area for personal aid setup, campsites, and parking. Packet pickup is scheduled at Bluebird Running Company on October 29 and at the event site on October 30. The field is capped at 54 participants, there is no waitlist, and refunds are not allowed. A portion of registration fees will be donated to the Southern New Mexico Trail Alliance.
All participants receive a hoodie and a Day of the Dead DNF medal. Runners who complete 24 yards receive a 100-mile buckle; overall male and female awards and the fastest yard lap award will be presented. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
