AKtive's Backyard Ultra

Palmer, United States • 11 Jul 2026

Black Wolf Backyard Ultra : Government Peak Recreation Area

Black Wolf Backyard Ultra continues the backyard format previously run as AKtive’s Backyard Ultra. The race takes place at Government Peak Recreation Area near Hatcher Pass. The course is a loop of 4.167 mile (6706 meter) that uses single track and ski trails with moderate elevation gains and losses of about 500 feet per loop.

Runners complete as many loops as they can under standard Backyard Ultra rules. Each loop starts on the hour and must be finished within the hour to count. All runners must start at the bell and may not receive outside aid while on a loop. The winner is the last person to complete a loop; all other participants are recorded as DNF. Water and a limited supply of prepackaged food items are available at the start and finish area.

Trail conditions are clear and marked but vegetation can be thick near the route. There is one small creek crossing with stepping stones and runners should expect the possibility of wet shoes or socks. Night loops use the same course and headlamps are recommended for hours of darkness. Weather can include rain and mud, and participants are advised to prepare accordingly. The race field is capped at 75 participants. Registration opens January 1, 2026 at 6:00 AM and there are no refunds or race transfers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

4 mi
Backyard Ultra Loop
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Experience a technical mountain race in Palmer featuring a 5000 foot vertical gain over 8 miles. Navigate steep ridges and alpine tundra from Government Peak to the historic Independence Mine in this point to point Alaskan challenge.

A three day mountain running weekend at Skeetawk Ski Area near Palmer AK featuring a youth uphill, a vertical kilometer, a 12K mountain loop, and a 37K Skyrunning course with multiple route surfaces and timed cutoffs.

Looped 3 mile trails at Government Peak form the backbone of a 50 mile and 100 mile endurance event set inside the Midnight Sun Endurance Festival, with a central aid hub, crew access every loop, and a festival atmosphere.

Experience the scenic single track trails of Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Area with distances ranging from a kids run to a 50K ultra. Runners receive a finisher mug after navigating this forested Alaska course.

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