Grand Valley Backyard
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Grand Valley Backyard Ultra
Grand Valley Backyard Ultra is a last-person-standing backyard ultra scheduled for October 3, 2026 at the 18 Road trail system in Western Colorado. The event is presented by Ultraverse Supplements and represents the organizer's third Backyard Ultra in three different states.
The format uses a repeating loop: every hour all remaining runners start a 4.17 mile loop together. Runners must complete each loop within the hour to be eligible to start the next loop; missing the cutoff or choosing to stop ends a runner's race. The event continues until only one runner completes a final loop.
The course is a 4.17 mile loop consisting mostly of singletrack with some doubletrack and no pavement. Each loop has approximately 500 feet of elevation gain, with most climbing occurring in the first half. The course is described as entirely runnable and non-technical.
Runners may set personal distance goals, including:
- 1 lap
- 50K
- 50 miles
- 100K
- 100 miles
- farther than previous efforts
On-course support includes water and Proxima C Endurance Fuel. Runners are responsible for additional food and supplies and should bring a refillable cup because the event is cupless. Each runner may use up to a 10' x 10' area near the start/finish for a personal setup; pop-up canopies up to 10' x 10' are allowed and must be staked or weighted. Crew are welcome with a limit of three people. Every runner who completes at least one loop receives a custom finisher buckle; official results will show total mileage. Runners also receive a tri-blend shirt, race sticker, and drawstring bag. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
