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. An optional pre-race camp out takes place the evening before the event.

The race format uses a repeated loop system. Runners must complete each land within one hour to continue; failure to finish or choosing to stop requires ringing the bell and elimination. Only 60 competitors are allowed in the last-man-standing field. A new rule starting in 2025 states that ties are not permitted.

Prizes and finisher items are awarded by achievement. The last person standing receives a $1000 cash prize, a trophy, and a six-pack of beer or root beer. All finishers receive a Backland long sleeve shirt and a beer or root beer. Special belt buckles are awarded for cumulative distances completed.

Distances

• 4.5-mile loop per land
• 103.5 miles total equals 23 lands and The Backland 100-mile buckle
• 153 miles total equals 34 lands and The Backland golden 150-mile buckle

The event limits the field size and specifies the loop format and prize structure at the listed location. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.