Duff Dog Backyard Ultra

Duff Dog Backyard Ultra, October 10, 2026

Duff Dog Backyard Ultra is a last-person-standing style race held at Blue Mounds State Park near Luverne, MN. The course uses the park's established trail system and is mostly grass with a little gravel and a short stretch on paved path.

The race is run as repeated loops. Each loop must be 4 miles 880 feet in length (metric equivalent 6.7056 kilometers). Loops start precisely one hour after the previous start; warnings are given three, two, and one minutes before each start. A starting corral is measured to fit the entire field and remains the same size throughout the event. Participants must be in the corral at the bell and all competitors must start on the bell.

Loop rules limit what competitors may do while a lap is underway. Except for restroom breaks, runners may not leave the course until they complete a loop. No non-competitors are allowed on the course and no personal aid is permitted during a loop, although common aid stations are allowed. Each loop must be completed within an hour, including the final lap. Artificial aids, including trekking poles, are not allowed. Slower runners must allow passes. Timing of loops is optional.

Race results record the distance each runner covers. The winner is the last person to complete a loop; if no runner completes one more loop than anyone else, there is no winner. The race is open ended. The runner support area includes shade and a shelter building, and there is nearby camping off the course for spectators and companions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.