Back Cove Backyard Ultra

Event overview

The Back Cove Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held in Portland, ME, on the Back Cove Trail. Participants run repeated loops every hour until one runner remains. Registration for the event opens on January 1, 2026.

Course and support

The route uses the Back Cove Trail, described as a mostly flat, non-technical gravel loop of about 3.5 miles with a short paved bridge crossing along a tidal estuary. A 0.60 mile add-on at the start/finish area brings each loop to the standard backyard ultra distance of about 4.16 miles. Parking is free in the public lot adjacent to the start/finish on a first come, first served basis.

There are two aid stations: one unstaffed aid station in Payson Park with water, basic first aid supplies, and packaged snacks, and a fully staffed aid station at the start/finish with water, electrolytes, packaged and prepared snacks, and basic first aid supplies. Event personnel will be present at the start/finish for the duration of the event. Participants may leave drop bags or supplies at that location, and there is space for a small tent or canopy adjacent to the start/finish. Porta potties are available in Payson Park and at the start/finish.

Logistics and policies

The event is described as hyper-local with a deliberately low entry price and minimal swag. Refunds are not issued except for extraordinary circumstances at the organizer's discretion; a pregnancy deferral is offered for use the following year. Volunteers are used to support the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.