Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
Maple Grove, United States • 23 Apr 2027
Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
The Elm Creek Backyard Ultra is a timed loop race held in April 2027 at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, MN. The event uses a simple format: runners complete a repeating loop of 4.167 miles every hour, for as long as they can. The Last Runner Standing wins; loops continue until only one runner completes a loop on their own.
The course starts and finishes at the Bluebird Picnic area and follows the south side of the park along the lake trail and around Mud Lake. The route has about 296 feet of elevation gain and loss and will rotate between clockwise and counterclockwise directions every few hours. Runners may not receive aid or pacing while on course; between loops, crews may provide support near the start/finish area. Crews are allowed but not required, and overnight access to the site may restrict reentry until dawn.
Race procedures include audible signals before each loop with whistles at three, two, and one minute(s) remaining and a bell to signal the start of each loop. Runners must be in the starting corral when a loop begins and there are no late starts. A limited field is expected, with organizers anticipating roughly 190 runners. The event is a Bronze Ticket qualifier for Big's Backyard Team Championships in Fall 2028. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.