Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
Maple Grove, United States • 24 Apr 2026
Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
The Elm Creek Backyard Ultra is a timed loop race held at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, Minnesota on April 24, 2026. The format requires runners to complete a 4.167 mile loop every hour; loops continue until a single runner completes a loop alone and is declared the winner. The event follows the Backyard Ultra model used by other Backyard events and serves as a qualifier path for the Backyard Championship at Big Dog’s.
The course starts and finishes near the Bluebird Picnic area and follows lake trails around Mud Lake along the south side of the park. The total elevation change on the loop is 296 feet. The route will rotate between clockwise and counterclockwise directions every few hours.
Race rules govern loop starts and in‑race support. Each loop must be started at the top of the hour and a bell signals the start. No pacing or aid is allowed while a runner is on course; runners may receive crew support only between loops. Crews may set up near the start area and runners may erect a tent in the designated picnic area about 50 to 100 yards from the start. Organizers will record total distance for each participant. Registration opened on September 1, 2025 and the event anticipates a field near 190 runners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.