Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
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Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
The Elm Creek Backyard Ultra is a timed backyard-style race held in Maple Grove, MN on April 23, 2027. The event follows the Backyard format: runners complete a 4.167 mile loop every hour and continue until one runner remains.
The course is in Elm Creek Park Reserve, starting and finishing at the Bluebird Picnic area and following the lake trail around Mud Lake on the park's south side. The loop has about 296 feet of elevation gain and loss. The direction on course will rotate between clockwise and counterclockwise every few hours.
The event serves as a Bronze Ticket qualifier for Big's Backyard Team Championships in the Fall of 2028. Organizers plan capacity for about 210 runners and a waitlist of roughly 75; 2027 registration filled quickly. The race format is based on the original Big Dog's Backyard Ultra and follows its guidance.
Key race rules include that each loop must be started at the top of the hour, runners must be in the starting corral when the loop begins, and no aid or pacing is allowed while a runner is on course. Crews and aid are permitted between loops. Whistles are used as countdown signals before each loop and a bell signals the start. Runners may use a designated area next to the start/finish for gear and may set up a tent in the nearby picnic area. DNF runners must vacate the immediate finish area to allow surviving runners closer access. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
