The Backland

The Backland

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

Only 60 competitors are permitted in the last man standing competition. Runners must complete each 4.5 mile loop within one hour to remain in the race; if a runner fails to finish a loop within the hour or chooses to stop, they are eliminated and ring the bell. The final remaining runner is titled The Backland Champion. A new rule starting in 2025 disallows ties.

Prizes and finisher items are specified for multiple achievements. The final winner receives a cash prize, a trophy, and a six pack of beer or root beer. All finishers receive a Backland long sleeve shirt and a beverage. Specific milestone awards include the 100 mile belt buckle and a golden 150 mile belt buckle for the respective mile totals. A trophy is also awarded for the best start/finish setup.

Camping at the start and finish is an option and onsite cabins and campsites are available at Walnut Creek Resort and Marina for traveling participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.