The Backland

The Backland

The Backland is a last person standing trail race held at Walnut Creek Resort & Marina in Gordonville, TX, near the Texas and Oklahoma border. The course is run mostly on trail with some road sections. Competitors loop a measured course known as a "land."

Only 60 people may enter the last man standing competition. Runners have one hour to complete each 4.5 mile loop; if a runner does not finish a land within the hour or chooses to stop, they are out and must ring the bell. Every hour a new land begins. A new rule starting in 2025 disallows ties.

Prizes and awards include a $1000 cash prize for the final person standing, a large trophy, and a six pack of beer or root beer. All finishers receive a Backland long sleeve shirt and a beer or root beer. Runners who complete 103.5 miles (23 lands) receive a 100 mile belt buckle, and those who complete 153 miles (34 lands) receive a golden 150 mile belt buckle.

The event offers on site options for overnight stays, including tent camping at the start and finish area, reserved campsites, or cabins at the resort. A trophy is given for best start or finish setup. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.