Backyard Ultra - Las Cruces
Las Cruces, United States • 30 Oct 2026
Day of the Dead Land of Enchantment Backyard Ultra : Prehistoric Trackways National Monument
The Day of the Dead Land of Enchantment Backyard Ultra takes place at Prehistoric Trackways National Monument in Las Cruces, NM on October 30, 2026. The event uses a lollipop style loop of 4.167 miles (6.706 km) on mostly crushed gravel trails with some elevation change and views of the Organ Mountain range.
The format is a last runner standing backyard ultra. Competitors run the 4.167 mile loop each hour and must be in the marked starting box when the hourly bell sounds. There are warning signals three, two, and one minute before the bell. Personal assistance is allowed only between laps; aid on the course is forbidden except for relieving oneself. Trekking poles and similar aids are not allowed on course. Slower runners must allow faster runners to pass.
The venue provides a large camping area with space for personal crew setups, parking, and group areas around the start and finish. The start/finish aid station will offer porta potties, water and Gatorade, salty and sweet trail snacks, pickles, wraps, and coffee in late night and morning hours. This is a cupless event.
Race entry is capped at 75 participants with no waitlist and no refunds. All entrants receive a hoodie and a Day of the Dead DNF medal. Competitors who complete 24 yards receive a 100 mile buckle. A portion of registration fees will be donated to the Southern New Mexico Trail Alliance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.