Utopia Backyard Ultra

Utopia Backyard Ultra 2026

Utopia Backyard Ultra takes place June 27-28, 2026 at the Tiffin Centre for Conservation, 8195 8th Line, Utopia. The event follows the Backyard Ultra format: one loop is run every hour on the hour until only one finisher remains. Organizers also offer fixed-hour Backyard events with defined finishes: Backyard 6, Backyard 12, Backyard 24, and the open Backyard. Early registration pricing is in effect until March 1, 2026; regular registration ends June 20, 2026. Entry fees are listed by category and include camping at the start/finish area beginning Friday, June 26th.

Course, rules and timing

The course must be a loop or out-and-back measuring 4 miles 880 feet (metric equivalent 6.7056 km). Each loop must be completed within an hour to count. Rules specify no personal aid during a loop, no non-competitors on course, no artificial aids such as trekking poles, and slower runners must allow passes. Backyard Fixed Hour races up to 24 hours are held under the same rules; in fixed-hour events no overall winner is named, participants either finish or DNF.

Course surface and facilities

The loop runs on maintained crushed gravel trails with a back quarter of about 2 km on sandier, woody trail. Elevation is no more than 45 m per loop. Markers such as arrows, flags, and reflective markers will be used. Potable water and limited electricity are available. Aid station snacks, electrolytes and scheduled "treat hours" are provided. A GPX course file is available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.