Estes Park's Backyard Ultra

Estes Park's Backyard Ultra

Estes Park's Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held on the paved Lake Estes bike trail in Estes Park, Colorado. The event uses a loop format of 4.252 miles per loop; runners repeat the loop each hour until only one runner completes a loop alone. Other participants receive a DNF with their total yards recorded.

The course sits at about 7,522 feet elevation and is a paved path circling Lake Estes. Each loop includes roughly 150 feet of elevation gain. Runners start clockwise and the direction switches every 12 hours. A bell signals the start of each hourly loop; each loop must be completed within one hour to count. Once a loop begins, runners must remain on course except for restroom stops. No personal aid is allowed while on the loop.

Base camp serves as the aid station between loops; runners are expected to bring their own nutrition and gear for extended racing. The event is cupless; participants may use their own cup or obtain a reusable cup for purchase. Registered athletes are allotted up to a 10 by 10 foot athlete village space and receive event items such as a Fractel hat. Entry fees are listed as $120 currently and $130 after June 19. A $20 discount is available for several local and service groups. Lodging partners offer special rates and discounts for participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.