Basic Info
We are back for year five with a new name and hopefully a new course record! Black Wolf Backyard Ultra will continue the backyard legacy of the previously named AKtive’s Backyard Ultra.
The race will be held at Government Peak Recreation Area, the backyard of Alaska’s favorite mountain playground, Hatcher Pass. The course is a 4.167 mile (6706 meter) loop through single track and ski trails with moderate elevation gains/losses (~500ft per loop). Complete as many loops as you can to be the official finisher and have a chance to earn yourself a spot on the at large list for Big’s Individual Championship.
Black Wolf Backyard will follow all standard Backyard Ultra rules and regulations. Racers will receive complete instruction and rules in the race handbook after registering. Day and night loops will be the same. While we brag about our midnight sun, it can still get a bit dark in the wee hours of the morning so headlamps are recommended between the hours of 11-4am.
The course trails will be clear and well marked but there can be thick vegetation surrounding the trails so always keep an eye out for wildlife and consider bringing bear spray or deterrent (whistle/horn). Weather in Alaska is anybody’s guess. We always hope for dry, runnable trails but you should be prepared for rain and mud as well. There is one small creek crossing with stepping stones but runners should anticipate potentially having wet shoes/socks.
Registration will open January 1, 2026 at 12:00AM.
Due to the cost and effort of putting on these races we will not be offering refunds, deferrals, bib exchanges or race transfers.
Shirt sizes guaranteed until Saturday, June 7th.
Backyard Rules
1. All runners MUST be in the starting corral at the bell.
2. Each loop starts precisely on the hour and 1 hour after the last. (Warnings will be given 5, 3, and 1 minute before the bell.)
3. All runners must start at the bell. (Absolutely NO late starts.)
4. Except for restrooms, competitors may not leave the course until the loop has been completed.
5. No non competitors on the course. (This includes eliminated runners)
6. No crewing or outside aid during a loop.
7. Each loop must be completed within an hour to be counted….including the final loop.
8. No artificial aids. (trekking poles, etc.)
9. Slower runners must allow passes.
10. Runners are responsible for their personal aid and nutrition needs.
11. Water, along with a limited supply of prepackaged food items will be available throughout the race at start/finish.
12. Winner is the last person to complete a loop.
13. All other runners are classified as a DNF. (There is no second place!)
14. If no runner can complete one more loop than anyone else, there is no winner.
FAQ
Q. Is this a bronze ticket race?
YES
Q. Can I get into Big Dog’s Backyard Championship Races?
Yes. 2026 is not a bronze ticket year but a qualifying run of at least 24 loops at Black Wolf Backyard will make you eligible for the At-Large list for Big's Backyard.
Q. What is a qualifying run for the At-Large list?
Any runner who completes at least 24 loops is eligible for the At-Large list. (NOTE: There is a solid stack of US runners coming in for 2025 and it currently looks like runners should be aiming for north of 60 laps to have a decent shot at the At-Large list)
Q. How can I learn more about Big’s Backyard and the individual championships?
BackyardUltra.com has all the information about Big’s as well as the championship brackets, regulations, and any other details you may be curious about.
Q. Is there a limited number of participants?
We have capped the race at 75 participants in order to give everyone enough space on the trails.
Q. Is there a time limit?
Yes and No. Yes, each loop must be finished within the hour in order to start the following loop. No, as long as there are two runners competing the race will keep going until only one remains. It could be 12 hours, 24 hours, or longer.
Q. I can probably only run 1 - 4 loops, can I still sign up?
Yes. Often times those participants who think they can only run a few loops end up running many more than they planned on!
Q: Is there an age limit?
While there is no set age limit, all runners, regardless of age, will be expected to run according to the rules. (See: NO SUPPORT) Runners must be of age to understand the rules and comfortable running these types of trails solo and unassisted.
Black Wolf Backyard Course
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Event's current local time: 11:28 PM AK
