LATR Backyard Ultra

LATR Backyard Ultra

LATR Backyard Ultra is an endurance event on September 26, 2026, at Lake Ahquabi State Park in Indianola, IA, with the start and finish at the beach shelter house (16510 118th Ave.). The course is a counterclockwise loop around Lake Ahquabi that follows the Lake Trail. The loop surface is mostly dirt with some gravel and includes roots, rocks, and uneven sections. Much of the route runs under mature trees with intermittent views of the lake.

The race format requires runners to complete a 4.167 mile lap, or yard, every hour. Laps must be finished within 60 minutes and runners must return to the starting corral at the top of the hour or face disqualification; 3, 2, and 1 minute warnings will be given. There is no overall time or mileage cap. The winner is the last person to complete one more lap than any other participant; all other participants will be recorded by distance or laps completed.

Aid is available at the starting corral and at a midway aid station, including water, Tailwind, and snacks. Bathrooms are located at the beach shelter house and at points along the course. Runners still on course after dark must carry a headlamp; additional lighting will be provided but sections will remain dark.

Packet pick up is offered the day before and on race morning at the beach shelter house. Registration uses three pricing tiers with increases on April 1 and September 1; a t shirt add on is offered for $25 prior to the September price increase. No refunds or transfers.

Crew areas are located around the beach shelter; crews may bring tents or canopies, must park in adjacent lots, and should remove all trash at departure. No loud music or pets are allowed in the crew area while the event is in progress. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.