Black Hills Backyard Ultra

Black Hills Backyard Ultra

Black Hills Backyard Ultra is a last-runner-standing trail event held on a looped course at the Big Hill trailhead on Tinton Road near Spearfish, South Dakota. The event uses a counter-clockwise loop that measures 4.167 miles with about 375 ft of elevation gain and loss per loop. The start/finish sits at the high point of the course; each lap descends roughly 200 feet in the first half and climbs back in the second half.

The trails are wide and smooth, originally developed for cross country skiing, which allows side-by-side running and passing. A new loop begins every hour; whistles sound at 3, 2, and 1 minute before each hour. Runners must be in the starting corral when the bell rings for the next loop or they are eliminated. Outside aid is allowed only between loops; no assistance is permitted once a loop has started. Trekking poles and pacers are prohibited. Volunteers and photographers may be on course; spectators must stay in the aid station area or meadow and may not assist runners during a lap.

An aid station at the start/finish provides hot and cold food, water, fuel mix, ice, and common ultra snacks. Free camping is available at the trailhead parking lot; facilities are limited to a vault toilet. There is no WiFi or cell service at the trailhead. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.