Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
Maple Grove, United States • 24 Apr 2026
Elm Creek Backyard Ultra
The Elm Creek Backyard Ultra is the first Backyard format event in the Twin Cities area, inspired by the original Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra. The event takes place at the Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, Minnesota, starting from the Bluebird Picnic area.
The format is simple: runners must complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour. Each loop starts at the top of the hour, and runners cannot receive aid or pacing while on the course. Between loops, runners can access support from a crew. The course traverses the south side of the park, using the lake trail and going around Mud Lake. It has 296 feet of elevation gain and loss. The loop direction rotates between clockwise and counterclockwise every few hours.
The event can last multiple days, finishing only when one runner remains. Runners must be in the starting corral when the bell rings to begin the next loop. If only one runner remains, that runner must complete one final solo loop to win. The event has an anticipated capacity of 190 runners.
Crews are permitted, and runners can set up a chair or small items near the start/finish line. A designated picnic area approximately 50-100 yards away is available for tents. Overnight, park gates are locked, so crews can leave but cannot return until dawn. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.