Norcal Backyard Ultra

NorCal Backyard Ultra - Granite Bay, CA

The NorCal Backyard Ultra takes place at Beals Point in Granite Bay, California on October 23–25, 2026. The event uses the Backyard Ultra format and offers two race options: Last Person Standing and a 12 hour Mini Last Person Standing.

In the Last Person Standing format, runners complete the same loop each hour until only one runner remains. At the top of each hour participants must start the next loop and finish the previous one; failing to be at the start line when the next lap begins results in elimination. The course is listed as 4.16 miles per lap with about 320 ft of elevation gain.

The Mini Last Person Standing follows the same hourly loop pattern but has a fixed 12 hour limit. Mini participants stop when the 12 hour period ends.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own aid station supplies and set them up near the start and finish where there is time between laps. There is one staffed aid station at the start/finish under a tent that offers water, hydration mix, light snacks, and warm food. There are no aid stations along the course and on course aid by crew is not allowed.

All runners receive a NorCal Backyard Ultra quarter zip and a custom wood award based on miles run. The top finisher receives a custom wood plaque. The event also runs a Unity Initiative that matches donations up to $40 or up to 25 percent of a registration fee; eligible donations must be made in 2025 and prior to the event. Partner nonprofit organizations include Placer Food Bank, Sacramento Food Bank, CASA of Sacramento, CASA of Placer County, AcademySTAY, Sierra Club of California, Placer Land Trust, and the American Civil Liberties Union. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.