Grand Valley Backyard
Loma, United States • 3 Oct 2026
Grand Valley Backyard
The Grand Valley Backyard is an inaugural Backyard ultra held near the 18 Road Trailhead in Loma, Colorado on October 3, 2026. The event follows the traditional Backyard format: runners repeat a loop of 4.17 miles every hour, all starters begin each loop together, and the race continues until only one runner remains.
The course is almost entirely single track with some double track and no pavement. Each loop has about 500 feet of elevation gain, concentrated mostly in the first half. The terrain is described as entirely runnable and non-technical. A large staging area is provided near the start and finish.
Awards and recognition are distance based. Distance specific buckles are awarded for all distances achieved and a finishers buckle records exact mileage. Acrylic awards will be given to the last male and last female standing and a top-tier Sheridan buckle will be awarded to the overall winner. Results record the distance achieved rather than a DNF unless a runner fails to complete a loop.
Support and logistics include water and a branded endurance fuel at aid, but runners should bring their own food. Crews are allowed with a suggested limit of three people per runner and a 10 by 10 foot space per runner or crew. No dogs are permitted in the crew area or on course. No on-site electricity is available for runners and gas generators are not allowed in crew spaces. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.