Tartarus Backyard Ultra

Event details

Tartarus Backyard Ultra is a backyard ultra held at Camp 7, Riverside State Park in Spokane, WA. The event includes separate running and rucking races. Race swag includes an event T-shirt and an additional acknowledgment for DNF. The event in 2026 is designated a Silver Ticket event.

Distances:

• 4.1667 miles (running loop)
• 2.2 miles (rucking loop)

Format and rules

The event follows the backyard ultra format. A new loop begins each hour and each participant has one hour to complete their loop. Only one runner and one rucker may ultimately finish; others are recorded as Did Not Finish (DNF). When only one runner or rucker remains, that person must complete a final loop alone to be declared the winner for their division. Runners and ruckers must be in the start corral when the next loop begins; late starts are not allowed. Once the bell signals a loop start, participants must stay on course and may not receive aid until they finish that loop, except for use of the portable toilets located just after the start line. A designated out-and-back section on the Centennial Trail is used at night, with the loop course resuming the following morning. A Backyard 24 option ties all participants who reach 24 hours for first place.

Ruck requirements and fundraising

Core ruck weight is 30 pounds for participants over 150 pounds and 20 pounds for those under 150 pounds. No vests are allowed; traditional rucks are required. Participants may choose to fundraise in place of a registration fee; raising a minimum amount qualifies an entry waiver and the event has an overall fundraising goal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.