Norcal Backyard Ultra

NorCal Backyard Ultra

The NorCal Backyard Ultra is a repeating loop endurance event held October 23-25, 2026 at Beals Point, Granite Bay, California. The core format requires runners to complete a loop of 4.16 miles each hour; participants who do not return to the start line at the top of the hour are removed from contention. The Last Person Standing format continues until a single runner remains. A Mini Last Person Standing uses the same hourly loop format but ends for all Mini entrants after 12 hours.

The course reports an elevation gain of about 320 feet per loop. There is a single aid area at the start and finish under a tent that offers water, hydration mix, light snacks, and warm food. There are no aid stations along the course, and receiving aid on course from crew is not permitted. Participants are encouraged to bring their own aid station supplies such as tents, tables, chairs, and food and set them up near the start and finish between laps.

All runners receive a NorCal Backyard Ultra quarter zip and a custom wood award based on miles completed. The top finisher receives a custom wood plaque. The event also includes the Unity Initiative, a program that supports selected nonprofit partners with donation matching up to $40 or 25% of a registration fee. Selected nonprofit partners include Placer Food Bank, Sacramento Food Bank, local CASA organizations, AcademySTAY, Sierra Club of California, Placer Land Trust, and the American Civil Liberties Union. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.