Backyard Ultra - Las Cruces

2026 Backyard Ultra : Day of the Dead Land of Enchantment

The Day of the Dead Land of Enchantment Backyard Ultra is scheduled for October 30, 2026 at the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument in Las Cruces, NM. This is the event's second running and uses a rarely used host venue with trails composed mainly of crushed gravel and some elevation change. The loop offers scenic views of the Organ Mountain range.

The event follows the last-runner-standing backyard ultra format. Each lap is a lollipop-style loop of 4.167 miles that is repeated hourly until only one runner remains. Runners must begin each lap from the marked starting box and may receive personal assistance only between laps. Personal aid setup is allowed around the start/finish area; the venue provides campsites, parking, and space for crew or personal tent setups. The event aid area will provide porta-potties, hydration (water and Gatorade), salty-sweet trail snacks, pickles, wraps, and coffee during overnight and morning hours. This is a cupless event.

All participants receive a Land of Enchantment hoodie, a Day of the Dead DNF medal, and access to the fully stocked aid station. Runners who complete 24 laps receive a 100-mile buckle. Male and female overall awards and a fastest-lap award will be given. The race is capped at 75 participants. 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.