Elm Creek Backyard Ultra

Elm Creek Backyard Ultra

Elm Creek Backyard Ultra is a Backyard Ultra held in Maple Grove, MN, at Elm Creek Park Reserve. The event uses the Bluebird Picnic area as the start and finish point and follows trails on the south side of the park, including the lake trail around Mud Lake. The loop distance is 4.167 miles with about 296 feet of elevation gain and loss. The course direction will rotate between clockwise and counterclockwise every few hours.

The format requires runners to complete one loop every hour, starting each loop at the top of the hour, and to continue as long as they can. The last runner standing is the winner; if the final runner fails to complete a required loop, there are no finishers. While on course, runners may not receive aid or pacing from others. Between loops runners may receive support from their crew and use the designated area near the start and finish for chairs, coolers, and small items. Crews may set up tents in the nearby picnic area and may leave and return, though gates will be locked overnight and crews unable to reenter until the park reopens.

Race procedures include warning whistles before each loop and a bell to signal each loop start. Registration opened on September 1, 2025; the event anticipates a capacity of 190 runners and will use a waitlist if it reaches capacity. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.